3 weeks ago I developed DVT in my calf. This was treated immediately in South Africa where I was seen by one GP and two specialists. They were very clear about the severity of this condition and explained the treatment (Rivaroxaban for 4 months in total) and its possible side effects (mainly bleeding) in great detail. They advised me to see my GP on arrival in the UK, which I did. My GP here took it seriously, checked the state of my leg, asked me lots of questions about the medication I was on, signed me off for two weeks initially and made me a referral to the anticoagulation clinic.
At the clinic, I was seen by a nurse. The first thing she told me is that in the UK DVT in the lower limbs is "not treated". Then she told me that the dose of Rivaroxaban I'm on is wrong, as I should have started in the highest dose first and then move on to the lower dose. I tried to make her see that that is actually the case but she did not listen. Then she told me that I need to be on Rivaroxaban for only 3 more weeks and not 3 months (as prescribed by the doctor in South Africa and confirmed by my local GP here). She didn't even check the state of my leg.
After I left I felt she didn't seem to have a clue and wasn't interested in my condition. I am deeply disappointed. I have made an appointment with another GP now (my own GP is unavailable for the next 3 weeks) since the nurse said I need to go back to work but I simply don't have the strength in my leg to do so.
"Lack of interest in my DVT condition"
About: Queen's Hospital / General medicine Queen's Hospital General medicine
Posted by Emma Searl (as ),
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