We found out a lot more today about Emily's blot clot, and need to find even more information as well.
I could tell by some of the comments today that some of you my have in your head that this is a small thing or that it's "over" because we went to the ER and we are back home. Emily has a complete thrombosis of her clavicle vein, that goes right into her heart. They were very concerned that the clot was actually in the heart, so today they ordered a Ech-gram to look at the blood flow to her heart. they confirmed that her clot is 4-7 inches long and completely blocking the clavical vein. You can see the other vein in her chest now because they are carrying the blood flow where the blocked view would have. This treatment will take 2 to 3 months and in the short term may derail her cancer treatment. We can't get a spinal shot that was ordered for this Thursday when she would have had her port placed. Now we have to delay that and wait for the clot treatment to start to make progress before we can proceed. The clot has fused itself to the PICC line, and while that is the reason for the clot most likely, they cant remove it because they would fear causing an embolism. So it's treatment with Lovenox and just wait and see.
Why did she get this clot? We don't know for sure, but one of the side effects of one of the chemo drugs, is clots. They see them from time to time, but not usually this large. They are doing a complete work up to see if Emily has a hyper-clotting condition. If she does it will effect her treatment and other things in life, but most likely its the PICC line and Chemo that ha caused it.
I am still a little uneasy that she is at home, but I think that is really me being ignorant, because none of the Doctors seems overly concerned or like it was a tough call for them to make. I asked every single doctor is there was any reason to be cautious and have her checked in, none of them said that it was needed at all.
Emily has heard about the clot, but has no idea that she should be concerned, which is good.
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2 comments:
Man oh man - you guys are dealing with big stuff and it just keeps coming. I am so sorry to hear about this clot situation. I wish I could just make this all go away.
I do consider this blog an unofficial "shoulder" for you and Tracy - and I imagine that you are amazingly positive, strong, certain and loving with Emily as you are with her and taking care of her - and then must have these moments of just wanting to throw up your hands. Use us for that - we accept and support whatever feelings you need to vent. You guys are in the front line and doing an amazing job.
Hugs!
Jessica, John ....etc..
Chris, Tracey, Emily and Haley,
You are in the thoughts and prayers of so many people. You and Emily will get through all of this....I am so glad that you have connected with Theresa Downey - at least she is someone who can know a bit more than most of us about what you are going though.....extra thoughts and prayers for all of you....you are doing an amazing job of coping with all of this.
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