Post-PE Recovery Tips
Hello there! I’m a 22-year-old woman weighing 165 pounds at a height of 5 feet 5 inches. About a month ago, I was diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE) and a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after experiencing chest discomfort and shortness of breath. I underwent both a CT angiography and a leg Doppler ultrasound. While the Doppler results were normal, the angiogram revealed small blood clots in both lungs. The doctors indicated that these clots might have originated from a DVT that migrated to my lungs. I was prescribed Eliquis right away, along with Omeprazole to address some stomach issues. Recently, I've also started taking Losartan to manage my elevated blood pressure and Zoloft for my anxiety. It has been roughly four weeks since I began taking Omeprazole and Eliquis, and just four days since I started Losartan and Zoloft. My doctor reassured me that some of the symptoms I’m facing are typical and may be exacerbated by my anxiety. Currently, I'm dealing with a number of symptoms, including: - muscle weakness - significant fatigue - increased heart rate when standing - joint discomfort, similar to arthritis, particularly in my hands - upper back discomfort - intermittent shortness of breath - jaw clenching, resulting in tension headaches at the back of my neck - diminished appetite (improving, but not fully back to normal) - gastrointestinal troubles, such as hiccups, an upset stomach, and upper abdominal pain. I have a hemoglobin appointment scheduled for tomorrow to address these concerns. It seems like all these symptoms began after I started my new medications, and I believe my body is just adjusting to them. If anyone has suggestions or insights into whether these reactions are typical or any tips for finding relief, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
Answers (1)
6/19/2025, 11:00:58 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re going through a challenging recovery after your recent diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE) and the ongoing adjustments to your medications. It’s understandable to feel concerned about the various symptoms you’re experiencing, especially since they have appeared after starting new treatments. Let me provide some insights and tips to help ease your recovery.
Main Points:
- Many of your symptoms can be attributed to your new medications and the recovery process.
- Managing symptoms with self-care and lifestyle changes can be beneficial.
- Ongoing communication with your healthcare provider is crucial.
Explanation:
After experiencing a pulmonary embolism and starting multiple medications, it is not uncommon to feel a range of symptoms. Fatigue, weakness, and gastrointestinal issues can often be side effects of medications like Eliquis and Omeprazole, especially as your body adjusts. Anxiety can also exacerbate physical symptoms, creating a cycle of discomfort. The symptoms you describe, such as increased heart rate upon standing and muscle/joint pain, may also relate to adjustments your body is making post-PE and possibly medication effects.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your symptoms and any changes you notice, including when they worsen. Share this with your doctor during your hemoglobin appointment to help assess your reactions to the medications.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Aim to drink enough water and eat small, frequent meals. This can help manage gastrointestinal discomfort and improve your appetite gradually.
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Gradual Activity: Incorporate gentle activities like walking or stretching to help with muscle weakness and joint discomfort. Start slowly and listen to your body; even light activity can improve your energy levels and overall well-being.
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Practice Relaxation Techniques: Since anxiety plays a role in your symptoms, consider practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or gentle yoga. These can help manage stress and potentially relieve tension headaches.
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Posture and Ergonomics: Be mindful of your posture, especially if you're experiencing discomfort in your back and neck. Ensure your workspace is ergonomically friendly, and consider using supportive cushions when sitting for extended periods.
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Medication Timing: If gastrointestinal symptoms persist, discuss with your doctor timing or combinations of medications to minimize irritation. Sometimes taking medications with food can help.
Be sure to communicate openly with your healthcare team about your symptoms and concerns—it's essential for tailoring the best plan for your recovery. Take care, and I hope you find relief and improvement soon.
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