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Tink's avatar
Tink
Member
11 years ago

Been a while!

Hi all - it's been some time since I posted.  I'm now 4 months post chemo and was doing ok (well, you know how it is!) until two weeks ago when I suffered a pulmonary embolism.  Oh yes, as if breast cancer wasn't enough!!!!  Two days in hospital later, I'm now on blood thinners for the next six months.  I was terrified as it very easily could have been fatal.  My oncologist said it's most probably related to the cancer - even though that's all gone.  So I'm now back to being scared about dying, just as I was getting my head around the whole 'scared of cancer recurring' scenario.  I had a telephone session with a counsellor from the Cancer Council who reassured me that everything I felt was normal - and now this.  Has anyone else had a PE?  The fact that the clot passed through my heart and lodged in my lung has terrified me.  I keep trying to tell myself I'll be ok but sometimes it can be a little too much to bear!!!!

Thanks

Tink

2 Replies

  • Tink's avatar
    Tink
    Member
    11 years ago

    Thanks for your comment Deanne.  I'm on Femara and both the vascular specialist & my oncologist doubt that the clot was caused by it.  I was concerned about the side effects of that medication but I suppose if they both say it's safe, then it must be.  I see the vascular specialist early next month and hopefully things will stay on track for a good recovery.

  • Deanne's avatar
    Deanne
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Tink

    So sorry to hear that you have had this latest complication. I have not had a PE but know that it can happen after any surgery or even just periods of low activity such as when we undergo treatment. There was another lady on here who had trouble with blood clots and also had to have blood thinners for 6 months. I know she found this very scary and also found the constant injections painful. Are you on Tamoxifen at all? This also has a slight risk of causing blood clots.

    Like you say, as if having Cancer was not enough! I am so glad that your clot was diagnosed and you are now having treatment which will ensure that you are ok in the long run. My father-in-law had a stroke after surgery for a back problem because he was not given blood thinners after his surgery. I am glad that you are having appropriate treatment and will avoid any permanent problems. 

    It does sometimes seem like a never ending process. I am currently having issues with hormones and will probably need more surgery. I was feeling great and had almost reached my 2 year anniversary of diagnosis when bang this has to cause an issue! Still I am so grateful to have access to terrific health care here in Australia. Must say my doctors have been great and very thorough in working out the best thing to do for my situation. 

    Hope that things get back on track for you and you are soon feeling more confident in your health again. Take care. Deanne xxx