My blood clot experience started with an intense fever and headache that lasted five days before I was hospitalized.
On July 26, 2023, I was leading a work call when I suddenly became unable to pronounce the words on my computer screen.
My girlfriend and our housemate took me to the emergency room, and as soon as I sat down in front of the ER desk, I was no longer able to respond to questions. I experienced a tonic-clonic seizure that lasted about 45 seconds.
I was given an anti-seizure medication and underwent a CT scan and MRI. I was diagnosed with a blood clot in my brain, or cortical venous thrombosis (CVT) in the vein of Labbe, a vein that drains blood from the temporal lobe. (This is a a subset of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, also known as CVST or CVT.)
From research, it appears that CVT is an uncommon medical event and typically happens to women who are childbearing or taking birth control. I had no risk factors for CVT, so my event is considered unprovoked.
After the clot was found, I was given heparin by intravenous drip and remained hospitalized for three days.
It has been several weeks since my blood clot and I have been recovering and adjusting well. I am taking medical leave from work and keeping myself busy with light exercise and cooking.
I have gained an even greater appreciation for each day and for my life. I hope to connect with others who have had a similar experience. I am not sure if I have a clotting disorder, but I’ll be moving forward with testing.
My advice for others is to know the signs and symptoms, and have annual checkups with your medical provider.
Resources
About Blood Clots
Signs and Symptoms
New Patient Resource Guide
