Blood Clots

1.  Please advice about appropriate treatment for a blood clot in the leg.  Also, effect of clots moving into the lungs.

2.  I am currently under the care of a GP.  Should I consult with a specialist?

3.  How long after soreness and swelling go away can I start walking for exercise?  

Thank you

[CCF-M.D.-CRC]

Dear Geese,
In general deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or deep blood clots are treated with warfarin (Coumadin) which is a blood thinner.  In some cases an injection may be used for a short period.  In individuals with pulmonary embolus (PE) or blood clots in the lung a filter is sometimes placed in the venous system to prevent further migration to the lungs.

If the GP is experienced in treating DVT and its potential complications you may not need to see a specialist.  I would ask him how many cases of these he has treated and what the outcomes have been.  Of course if you are concerned it is never a bad idea to get a second opinion.

It would be up to your doctor to tell you when you can resume exercise.

[kd re: longstanding MR]

Ask your doc to check for antiphospholipid antibody syndrome.  I wish I knew about it years ago before the clots.
kd

[jan]

I have Factor 5 Leiden which causes DVT and PE. My dr. had me tested for all hypercoaguable states and that is how they found it. It probably would be a good idea to ask for these tests to get to the bottom of it.  BTW, Factor 5 Leiden is hereditary and my son has to be tested, it was also recommended that all my siblings be tested.  So, it could be very important to be tested.

[Ravae]

I am a 42 year old that was diagnosed with Phosphatidyl Serine last September, after suffering two strokes, a heart attack, and loosing my vision. I had been on hormones for about 90 days when my life fell apart. The sad part is I have checked tons of places for information on this disorder, but have not been able to find any information on it.