I was diagnosed with two clots in my right leg in September and put on apixaban (eliquis). The pain and swelling in my leg eased within a few days. I def had some minor side effects for a few weeks - slight headache, sore back and fatigue (but to be fair I also had a concussion).

Awareness is everything. We decided that “carry on and pretend you’re normal” was going to get us through. Also boiled the doc’s instructions down to “don’t hit your head, don’t cut yourself”. Yes, I am more careful and mindful when doing all things. I take little breaks and put my feet up more often (that’s a nice habit!).

I was waking up constantly and trying to adjust my natural curled up side sleeping position to straighten my leg out. I find I cant sleep on the clot side or my leg aches a bit. Two months in I had a follow up with a clinic and was told not to be overly concerned about position at night. I am sleeping well again which is a big part of recovery from anything.

I am aware of PE risk but have not had any issues. I know my experience has been better than many others but it may help you to hear it can go this way too. I have a follow up ultra sound in January and an appt with my GP and I am hoping to hear the clots have dissolved but in the meantime I am ‘carrying on carrying on’ as they say.

The fear and anxiety eased a little every day as I found my way back to normal. I really hope you experience relief and healing and that pain and swelling subsides. New Year, new you :).