Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Support Group

Deep-vein thrombosis, also known as deep-venous thrombosis or DVT, is the formation of a blood clot ("thrombus") in a deep vein. It can be caused by something preventing blood from circulating or clotting normally. Join the support group if you are coping with DVT and find others who are going through the same challenges.

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/ Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Support Group

Help: to ER or not to ER

Margr
Margr
An hour ago I had one of those screamer calf cramps. It lasted about a minute, which is long for me. I 'd been having significant (painless) deep "flutters" in my calf a lot today (and in recent days).

The hx is dx 13 months ago ankle-to-groin DVT, multiple bilateral PE. Leg veins are now damaged but patent (no longer occluded). Causes: FVL and BCP. I stopped warfarin in July 2012 after 10 months.

I'm requesting input regarding deep leg "fluttering" and calf cramping. I'm trying to figure out if I should take action. I've done that whole return trip to the ER that turned out to be nothing. Not that anxiety is nothing ...

But my imagination is starting to run a bit wild.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I cannot offer any significant advice, since i am still on coumadin and still have multiple clots in my lower leg. But I get the 'flutters' in my leg frequently, it's very alarming to me - but since I am still on the blood thinner, I was told it was of no concern. My early symptom, before I knew I had a DVT was calf cramping. If these cramps and flutters are 'new' for you since you've been off coumadin, I would not dismiss it. Even if you decide not to head to the ER, I would call my doc in the morning....

Good Luck to you. I hope that all is well.
dero
dero
When in doubt, follow your instinct, you know your body better then anybody else.
I did and still the nurse at the ER was telling me to let the experts diagnose it when I told her I was having a second clot.
So a few hours later, with my heparin shot, my appt with the Thrombosis dept the following day AND a confirmation that it was indeed a clot, I passed by her desk on my way out, I told her that maybe I should become an expert...

It is better to know then to be sorry...
dero
dero
But I hope it's a panic attack...
I really do.
Margr
Margr
Going to call the doc tomorrow. I'm trying to panic sensibly. While the ER saved my life last year, I don't relish a return to the wait time, persuading them what tests to run, getting tied up and missing work tomorrow (which is a bit of thin ice right now I'm afraid). I'm grateful for your input. I'll let you know if something dvt/pe bubbles up. Will now drink water and watch PBS for some greater calm. Wishing you both the best.
TossNTurn
TossNTurn
Usually if you tell the ER that you have a clotting history and that you're having leg pain, you'll get bumped to the front of the line. I've never waiting more than a few minutes when they find out the issues.

Still, I'm glad you've got a plan you're comfortable with. Trying keeping your leg elevated tonight and see if it helps at all.
Catalyzt
Catalyzt
Don't know your history, but flutters and cramps are really common post clot. They also seem random. In the seven years between my two clots, I could go two weeks and feel almost normal, and then be thrown out of bed at 4:00 AM by a cramp.

Had a sonogram. It was nothing.

I like your plan. The thing is, it often takes a couple of days to really know if you're having a second clot. If you are having a recurrence, and you catch it tomorrow, you are probably lowering your risk of further vascular damage.

If it gets worse, go to the ER.
rmb
rmb
Yeah, my DVT was 5 years ago and I still will suddenly get a cramping or some kind of weird sensation. The one I get frequently is this sensation that someone is poking their finger or a stick into my calf. It's always in the same spot. Not sure what specifically causes this but I suspect that since our veins have been damaged and new collateral veins form there is going to be some degree of pain, discomfort, or strange sensations.

It's hard to get to a place of reasonable anxiety, ha! I've so been there with trying to assess what whats, and what to do. I like your plan. Sometimes that alone offers some control and can be calming.

Good luck!
Margr
Margr
After a long afternoon of medical attention (ultrasound included), I've learned my leg flutters and mega calf cramps don't mean another clot is in the works. All useful in further defining the new "normal."

Thanks for the guidance, opinions and sharing of experience. Each was helpful and supportive.
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