Missy
My name Is Missy and I was diagnosed with Factor V Leiden at the age
of 16. I was tested because I had developed DVT in my right leg
after twisting my ankle.
Because of my age, my hematologist at the time
didn't see the need to start me on warfarin.
At age 20, I fell and dislocated my knee cap. I specifically told doctors in the
emergency room that I had Factor V Leiden. Unfortunately, precautions were not
taken and I developed a DVT in my right leg again. I had developed clots from
my ankle all the way to the top of my leg. I spent a week and a half in the hospital,
and I missed a month's worth of school.
I am
now 27 years old, and I've been on warfarin for 7 years. I think back
to that emergency room visit, and I wonder what if the doctor had
started me on anti-coagulation therapy? Would I be on warfarin for
life? I guess I'll never know, but I do wish that doctors in general
were better educated about Factor V Leiden.
What bothers me most, is that there's not enough awareness of this
disorder. I was so relieved when I came across the Thrombophilia
Support Page. To know that people are getting the word out about this
disorder and its seriousness is a wonderful thing.
I'm frightened each and every time I go to a new doctor or have to go
to the emergency room. It's scary that at times I know more about my
disorder than those medical personnel that I come in contact with. I
keep hope that advancements will be made, and I won't have to be on
warfarin for the rest of my life.
I believe that I didn't take the diagnosis of Factor V Leiden
seriously what I was 16. I was so young, and my hematologist at the
time made me believe that I would never be bothered by it. Which
simply wasn't true. My life has been greatly altered by this
disorder. At times it feels as if my life centers around it.
As I've
gotten older, the seriousness of this disorder has sunk in. I now
realize that I have to be responsible for making sure that the people
around me are educated about this disorder. Whether it be a new
doctor or family and friends.
There are days that I've been angry because I have to take warfarin
and have to tolerate the side effects. On those days I have to remind
myself that I'm lucky to be alive, and that they're are people who
are worse off. The most important thing is to be educated about
Factor V Leiden. Knowing the warning signs of DVT can save your own
life or that of someone close to you.
-Missy
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