 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
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