Xercisegrl’s BodyBlog

DVT, Deep Vein Thrombosis, deep blood clot, possible complication of a pulmonary embolism. All scary words but no intense workouts for THREE MONTHS (!!) , that’s even scarier! !

So, yes, 1-½ weeks ago, I was diagnosed with a DVT. And put on bed rest to minimize chances of the clot dislodging and traveling to my lungs. My right Femoral vein was completely blocked causing swelling and pain in my leg. At the time, things looked pretty bleak and I didn’t handle it well.

 However, the day before Thanksgiving, I had additional tests that showed that although the clot did move, it stopped in my upper thigh and is shrinking!! I now have some blood flow (not much but I’ll take it!) and much less pain and swelling!! So I had a very thankful Thanksgiving!

Unfortunately, I cannot continue my “bodybuilding” training for three months. I was put on a twice-daily injection of anti-coagulants the first week and now must take Coumadin (also an anti-coagulant) during the three months. While I am on this medicine, I must wear a medical alert bracelet. I can’t shave with a razor (electric is OK) because if I nick myself, I could bleed for hours! I even have to brush my teeth with a soft bristle toothbrush to protect my gums. Just the slightest bump can cause intense bruising, and any cut or head bump means a trip straight to the ER!!

So, although I must put my regular training on hold, I’m still planning on lightweight full body (minimal legs, of course!) training three times a week to maintain what I’ve built over the last six months. I’m not sure if I’ll be ready for the Bbshow in May but I am still going to eat and prepare for it!!

So, a setback (to say the least!) but I’m not going to let it get me down!! When life throws you lemons…blah, blah, blah!! LOL!