what tests should be done?

Hi
I am new to this forum and have not yet posted my full story...but to cut a long story short, I have DVT and am currently taking 10mg of Coumadin. My blood clot was originally misdiagnosed as a muscle strain (was missed in first DVT) and after 2 agonizing weeks I just took myself to the hospital for another ultrasound. This all happened about 6 weeks ago.
It's been a real roller-coaster ride ever since, and I am so thankful for this forum and all of you for being so supportive and helpful.
I went to see a hematologist privately, who was very informative and asked me to do a series of blood test to determine the cause of this all. Unfortunately, my medical scheme does not cover these tests unless reffered to by one of their doctors. So, last night I went to see one of their specialists, and I was sooooo disappointed by his lack of expertise. He was uncooperative, telling me the tests were unnecessary and that there is a lot of hype about DVT and the whole genetic issue gets people into a frenzy.
I was horrified, telling him I wanted to do whatever tests where avaiable as I feel responsible towards my brother/sister and kids to inform them of any genetic history. Besides, I want to know where I stand and can't just wave it off saying it was the pill and that's it. It was clearly a combination if things.
How awful is that...what does "too much hype" mean? I think there isn't enough awareness !!!
He even told me not to look things up on the internet and forums...what a creep!
Anyway, I will probably just do the tests privately for my own peace of mind.
My question is, which tests are required and what should I do?
I hope you are all doing well...
XXX

Hi there inbalp

I am stunned to hear that the specialist reckons that there is too much of a "hype" about DVT...good heavens!! Also, to just assume that it is the pill is rather “laxidazy” as far as I'm concerned or is he/she sure and did the necessary blood tests? Besides, what I don't get is if some doctors are so quick to say "oh its the pill" when they hear or see DVT, why on earth is the pill being handed out as if it were candy?!

I know that the pill can cause it and am not disputing that at all, but it is not the one and only cause and, as you rightly say, could be a combination of things.

My suggestion would be to go back to the hematologist you first went to and ask him to either send you for the necessary tests or alternatively he can contact one of the doctors which your medical plan approves and recommend that they send you for the necessary tests?

I believe that it is very important to see a doctor that you are comfortable with and trust.

Which part of the world do you live?

Hope you are well otherwise and look forward to hearing from you.

Have a great day!

Best,
Madeline

Hi Madeline
Thanks for your response.
I was completely devastated by this doctor's lack of professionalism and his whole attitude towards DVT. I told him:" I am sorry if I sound like a hypocondriact, but if it happened to you...". He even couldn't understand why I was wearing the compression sox since I had no swelling. Needless to say, I will not trust every doctor I go to.
I currently live in Israel...but I grew up in South Africa ...so yesss...I am from your part of the world:-)
I am SO embarrassed to say that this doctor is South African
He seemed more interested in getting me to join some research that is going on for a new medication instead of Coumadin, than helping me out.
Any recommendations for which tests to do?
Warm regards
Inbal

Hi Inbal

Unfortunately I cannot tell you which tests should be done. You need to speak to a medical professional / hematologist and be referred by them for the necessary tests. Besides, each person is different and their situation different. I was sent for loads of tests, including hereditary.

Best to speak to the people in the know

Regards,
Madeline

Thanks Madeline. I will hopefully get the tests done soon.
I hope you are well
Regards
Inbal