Thrombosis AustraliaThrombosis Australia is a central information and resource hub for the community proudly brought to you by the Perth Blood Institute Our Thrombosis Australia Advisory Panel consists of eminent Australian healthcare professionals. Thrombosis Australia Advisory Panel If you are a healthcare professional you can access the Thrombosis Australia Professionals site here: Thrombosis Australia Professionals About us About Thrombosis Tools & Resources Your stories News and information What's on Get involved For professionals Pia's story Pia experienced her first deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in April of 2016 when she was only 25 years old. The DVT occurred in the calf of her left leg, which she noticed due to severe pain and swelling, and at first, she thought it was simply a pulled muscle as she couldn’t put any weight on her leg. Pia went to see her GP and confirmed that it was a DVT rather than a pulled muscle via an ultrasound. Upon diagnosis of the DVT, Pia contemplated about the cause and perhaps it was from the oral contraceptive pill. After having further tests while in hospital, they found she had a blood disorder called Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APS). “Don’t delay seeking medical attention, even if you’re unsure it’s thrombosis” Pia APS is a condition which occurs when the immune system mistakenly creates antibodies that make your blood more likely to clot. Antibodies are a type of protein which generally help defend the body against infections. With APS the body makes antibodies which incorrectly attack phospholipids which are a type of fat. Once these fat cells are damaged blood clots are likely to form in the arteries and veins. Unfortunately, there is no cure for APS, although medications can reduce the risk of blood clots. Pia was put on an anticoagulant medication. The medication is a demanding medication to take as the levels must be monitored to an exact amount to reduce risks associated with bleeding. "I am hopeful that one day a cure is discovered for my daughter's condition" Maurice, Pia's father Pia says that even though she was shocked at the original diagnosis, she is proud that she remained calm and listened to the medical advice. She is now more informed and aware of the risks of thrombosis and wishes that people recognised the symptoms and understand to take more precautions, especially when travelling, as thrombosis can happen to anyone.