Was your D dimer negative?

Sometimes they don't run a D Dimer while you're on anticoagulants because they can make the D Dimer inaccurate for determining a blood clot, at least that's how it is with Warfarin. Not sure if it's the same with Xarelto but I suspect it's similar. Maybe I'm wrong though.

It is true that if you're on anticoagulants, it would be unusual to throw a clot. I can't speak to Xarelto specifically though.

Perhaps there's some weird circulatory issues going on post clot or you aggravated something. The ultrasound will tell the story. Let us know how it goes.

Also, with the d-dimer, they can be inaccurate if you already have known clotting in your body. My doc refuses to run one on me because Is till have a clot from 2005 in one leg.

I don't think a d-dimer would have done you much good in this circumstance. The scan will help clear things up, although if it happens again, maybe take some pix before heading to the doctor, just so they can see what it looked like at its worst.

Please excuse my ignorance but what is a d-Dimer?

Thanks-Dale

A d-dimer is a somewhat controversial blood test they can run in the hospital to see if you might be clotting. It's somewhat controversial because the results are definitive. It can be elevated for a lot of reasons that have nothing to do with clotting, like being sick or having an old clot in your system.

Generally, a negative d-dimer (low) is taken to mean that you aren't clotting, although there have been a few people on these groups who have had clots even with a negative d-dimer.

So, basically, its a blood test that can help determine if you are or aren't clotting. BUT, the results aren't totally dependable, so they have to be taken with a grain of salt. Still, its one option to look at if they aren't sure what's going on and want to avoid doing a CT (and exposing you to that radiation) if possible.

Sorry, meant to say "It's somewhat controversial because the results AREN'T definitive."

Thanks all! I am now scheduled for an ultra sound of my clotted up leg. Depending upon the results, my Doc might do a CT scan to check out the clots in my lungs. I can tell most of the lung clots are gone because I am no longer needing 5L / minute of O2 just to sit in a chair. Only need 2L of O2 to walk. I'll report back on the ultra sound when I get the results. Regards-Dale