Living with Deep Vein Thrombosis and Post Thrombotic Syndrome

Dear Green Nurse,

I recently read your blog post about Blood Clot Awareness Month and learned that you’re still dealing with the blood clot in your leg. Has it not been resolved yet? What does the healing process look like, and how is your recovery coming along?

Sincerely,
A Concerned Follower

Dear Concerned Follower,

This blog post is for you! I have found myself on another L O N G healing journey, making progress, although more slowly than I had anticipated. So I am writing in hopes of helping others find healing if they have this condition too.

Much Love,
The Green Nurse

Living with Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS): A Holistic Healing Approach

Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) is one of those conditions that most people never hear about—until they’re living with it. It’s a long-term complication that can follow a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and it affects both physical mobility and emotional well-being. If you’ve had a DVT and still feel like your leg “isn’t quite right,” you’re not imagining it. That lingering discomfort could be PTS—and yes, there are holistic ways to support your healing journey. I am on that healing journey now.

I am currently dealing with a blood clot in my lower right extremity and I am being worked up for Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) which is an autoimmune condition in which the body produces antibodies that mistakenly target phospholipids, a type of fat crucial to cell membranes, or proteins bound to them, such as beta-2 glycoprotein I. These antibodies interfere with the normal clotting process, making the blood more likely to form dangerous clots. APS can cause deep vein thrombosis (DVT), stroke, pulmonary embolism, and pregnancy complications like miscarriage or stillbirth.

APS is diagnosed based on a combination of clinical events (such as thrombosis or pregnancy loss) and blood tests that detect specific antiphospholipid antibodies. Testing must show these antibodies are present on two occasions, at least 12 weeks apart, to confirm the diagnosis. My first set of labs for this autoimmune condition were positive which means that I need to be re-tested in 12 weeks to confirm if I have this or not. Even though APS is a rare condition, it’s an important consideration for people who experience unexplained blood clots—especially at a young age or without traditional risk factors.

I am experiencing another condition that is not very pleasant as a result of the Deep Vein Thrombosis called Post-Thrombotic Syndrome, influenced by several contributing factors. These include the location of the clot (a Popliteal DVT), the sub-acute to chronic nature of the clot (it had been present for some time without my knowledge), and a delayed diagnosis (it was likely there for months before being identified because I didn’t feel it). Additionally, I have a Factor V Leiden mutation, a history of varicose veins, and, at the time of diagnosis, reported discomfort in both legs. This bilateral discomfort raises concerns about potential, undetected issues in my left leg, even though tests showed no clot on that side at this time.

Recovering from another chronic illness has made me reflect on whether I could have prevented the blood clot I experienced. I often wonder if receiving multiple COVID-19 vaccinations played a role. At the start of the pandemic, I got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, followed by Moderna boosters. Research, such as Hippisley-Cox et al. (2022), suggests a potential link between certain vaccines—especially adenovirus-vector ones like Johnson & Johnson—and an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). While these findings are still being explored, they’ve made me question whether my clotting event was influenced by the vaccines.

This experience highlights the need for informed discussions about potential medical risks of vaccines. I want to be clear: I am not anti-vaccine. I fully believe in their importance but also in making informed choices. If I had known earlier about my Factor V Leiden mutation, a genetic predisposition to clotting, I might have made different vaccination decisions. Until my diagnosis, I had lived 58 years with no clotting issues and no knowledge of this condition.

I am currently navigating the challenges of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Post-Thrombotic Syndrome, embracing the journey of healing while striving to live my fullest life and inspire others to do the same.

What is Post-Thrombotic Syndrome? Post Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) occurs when a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) damages the valves in your veins, leading to chronic issues with circulation. It’s estimated that up to 50% of people with a DVT will develop some level of PTS within 1–2 years (Kahn, 2006).

Common Symptoms of PTS:

• Severe aching or cramping pain in the affected leg or legs
• Swelling that worsens with standing or walking
• Heaviness, fatigue, or tightness in the leg
• Skin changes (discoloration, dryness, hardening)
• In severe cases, ulcers near the ankle

These symptoms can be frustrating, especially when you’re doing “everything right” both within the conventional care and holistic caring realms and still not feeling like yourself.

Mainstream treatment focuses on:

• Anticoagulants (like Eliquis) to prevent new clots
• Compression stockings to support blood flow
• Elevation to reduce swelling
• Pain management to relieve suffering and encourage movement
• Exercise (especially walking and calf pumps) to improve circulation, which is difficult for many people because of how painful this can be.

But if you’re someone who prefers a whole-person approach, there’s good news: holistic healing can work with conventional treatment—not against it.

My Holistic Toolbox for Healing DVT & PTS

This is my personal journey of healing and navigating the complex bio-psycho-social-spiritual challenges of living with Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and the debilitating pain of Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS). I find myself in a profound solitude, once again exploring the layered and intricate path of recovery—a process that is both deeply challenging and profoundly transformative. My care team includes my primary care doctor and pharmacist, a naturopath and homeopath who guide me in making safe supplement and herbal choices, and now a hematologist to oversee long-term management. Each step of this journey reminds me of the resilience required to heal and adapt, one day at a time.

Bloom Hemp CBD: A Natural Plant Medicine Ally – CBD (cannabidiol), especially when derived from hemp, is gaining traction for its ability to modulate pain perception and inflammation—both central to the experience of PTS. Cannabinoids that interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), particularly the CB2 receptors in the immune system, which can help modulate the body’s inflammatory response (Meng et al., 2019).

CBD Benefits for Post Thrombotic Syndrome :

• Reduces inflammatory cytokines, potentially calming chronic venous inflammation which helps with the chronic inflammatory pain.
• Alleviates neuropathic and nociceptive pain, which may be present due to tissue or nerve irritation near the clot site.
• May support vascular tone and circulation, although more human studies are needed. The endocannabinoid system does play a role in regulating blood clotting by influencing platelet function and vascular tone. The ECS, composed of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), endogenous cannabinoids, and enzymes, helps maintain homeostasis throughout the body. Studies indicate that activation of CB1 receptors may promote platelet aggregation, while CB2 receptor activation could have anticoagulant properties by reducing inflammation and clot formation (Pacher & Mechoulam, 2011). So it is important to choose your cannabinoid products wisely for this condition to support treatment and prevent adverse effects with other pharmaceuticals.
• Offers neuroprotective and anxiolytic properties—important for those also managing PTSD, depression, or anxiety related to limited mobility or chronic discomfort

My favorite Bloom Hemp Products:

• CBD Topicals: Applying CBD topicals directly to the affected area can offer targeted, localized relief. One of my favorite products is Bloom Hemp Muscle and Joint Cream, which I use both in the morning and at night. It’s the perfect addition to my routine before slipping on my trusted compression stockings.
• CBD Tinctures: Taking Full Spectrum CBD oil sublingually offers a convenient and precise way to adjust your dosage to meet your needs. During the day, I turn to Bloom Hemp Essentials Digestive Tincture for gut microbiome and immune system support promoting the relaxation response and helping me to manage daytime anxiety. At night, the Bloom Hemp Advanced Trilogy Tincture is my go-to for systemic deep healing, rest, digestion, and promoting the relaxation response.
• CBD Softgels: For longer acting relief for systemic inflammation and enhancing the CBD tinctures I take one Bloom Hemp Immunity Softgel in the daytime which is Free from THC but filled with the healing richness of CBD, CBDA, CBG, and CBGA. In the early evening, I take one Bloom Hemp Full Spectrum Softgel with a trace of thc in the early evening to help with pain that seems to follow a day of work and healing modalities.
• CBD Gummies: For longer acting pain relief and sleep I use a combination of Bloom Hemp Advanced T65 Gummies and the Bloom Hemp Sleep Gummies. I cut the T65 Gummies in quarters and microdose those if needed, meaning if the pain is bad in the daytime. It allows me to not have to take pharmaceuticals that I have not responded favorably to in the past. I use one full Sleep Gummy one hour before bed which helps regulate my circadian rhythm and supports restorative sleep.

Clinical note: Research shows CBD has a strong safety profile and low risk for addiction or withdrawal—unlike opioids or benzodiazepines (Meng et al., 2019).

I have made the deliberate decision to stop inhaling cannabis products as part of my medical treatment, recognizing that doing so with an active DVT is not advisable due to its potential impact on cardiovascular function, coagulation, and drug metabolism. Instead, I have carefully developed a thoughtful, integrative approach that combines conventional treatments with non-inhaled, plant-based therapies. This strategy aligns with my personal goals and offers what I believe to be the safest, most holistic path to recovery and healing. While I occasionally miss a good smoke session, the truth is that my health takes priority. I’ve chosen alternative ways to medicate that are safer and won’t risk complicating my already delicate health challenges and conditions.

Homeopathy Support – Homeopathy can serve as a complementary approach to support the healing process from blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis or venous thrombosis. By promoting better circulation, reducing inflammation, and addressing symptoms like pain, swelling, and emotional stress, it offers a gentle way to enhance recovery. While it should never replace medical treatments like anticoagulants, homeopathy can be a valuable addition to conventional therapies when used under professional guidance. Personally, I’ve benefited greatly from homeopathic remedies on my healing journey and have been fortunate to work with exceptional homeopaths in both the USA and the UK. Some of the remedies that I have worked with include the following:

• Apis Mellifica 30C or: helps reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain associated with DVT
• Hamamelis Virginiana 200C: For venous congestion and heaviness
• Arnica Montana 3C: For pain, soreness, and post-clot trauma
• Ruta Graveolens 30C or 200C: For joint stiffness, particularly behind the knee

I strongly recommend seeking guidance from a trained homeopath to customize the dosage according to your specific needs and condition. It is important to work with a trained homeopath to ensure individualized, safe, and effective remedy selection and dosing, especially when addressing complex conditions like DVT alongside conventional treatments.

Movement – Even light movement, such as a quick walk or gentle stretching, can significantly improve circulation and boost your mood. These simple actions increase blood flow, ease stiffness, and release endorphins, leaving you feeling more energized and positive throughout the day. Personally, I’ve always loved staying active—whether it’s exercising, hiking, biking, swimming or dancing. For me, motion has always been the remedy, my “lotion,” for keeping both my mind, body and spirit in balance. However, movement has become more challenging due to a stiff, painful knee that has been negatively impacted by the DVT. I now rely on a cane to steady myself and prevent falls, making every step a little more deliberate. I am also concerned about significant heart rate fluctuations during cardiovascular aerobic exercise, so I have adjusted my fitness routine to accommodate my delicate condition. My current regimen now includes:

• Walking: Short, frequent walks (even in the house!) help reduce leg fatigue and swelling.
• Gentle Yoga: Focus on leg elevation, stretching, and lymphatic support.
• Peddler: Using the peddler to strengthen my upper body and arms, as I am not ready to ride a bike yet.
• Swimming: Pool shoes have been ordered and I plan to incorporate some movement exercises in the water, followed by a relaxing session in the spa.

Mindfulness & Meditation – Mindfulness offers numerous benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved emotional regulation, enhanced focus and cognitive clarity, better sleep, and increased overall well-being by fostering present-moment awareness and self-compassion. I have been doing daily breathwork and meditation on the Biomat to activate my parasympathetic nervous system to reduce inflammation and stress. (Pascoe et al., 2017). I’ve been inconsistent with my gratitude journal, mindful that gratitude often feels easier when life is going smoothly. However, I’ve kept going, reminding myself that healing isn’t a linear journey. I’m now uncovering and healing a deeper layer, beyond the challenges of the blood clot.

Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition & Hydration – Food truly is medicine, especially when it comes to healing the vascular system. Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fatty fish, and healthy fats like olive oil can significantly reduce systemic inflammation—a key factor in blood clot formation and vascular damage. By promoting healthy circulation and lowering inflammation markers, this type of diet not only supports the healing process but also helps prevent clot progression.

Foods high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids further enhance endothelial function and overall cardiovascular health. Personally, I’ve removed processed foods, refined sugars, alcohol, and caffeine from my diet, focusing instead on an anti-inflammatory approach. Under the guidance of a Naturopathic Doctor, I’m supplementing with nutraceuticals to address any nutritional gaps that cannot be met through my current diet.

Given my reduced mobility, my caloric needs have decreased, even though my nutritional requirements remain the same. Maintaining a balanced diet is critical to prevent unnecessary weight gain, which could place additional strain on the circulatory and vascular system.

Hydration is equally vital for vascular health. Proper fluid intake—through water, coconut water, and herbal teas—helps maintain healthy blood viscosity and circulation. Staying hydrated not only reduces the risk of clot expansion but also ensures optimal blood flow, especially in those managing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). As research suggests, dehydration can worsen vascular conditions, making hydration an essential part of any recovery plan (Kesieme et al., 2011).

By combining the right diet, hydration, and tailored supplementation, it’s possible to support vascular healing and promote overall cardiovascular wellness. It is just taking time!

Emotional Healing + Advocacy – Living with Deep Vein Thrombosis and Post Thrombotic Syndrome can feel incredibly isolating, especially when others don’t understand or see the pain you’re in. It’s an invisible struggle that can take a toll not just physically, but emotionally as well. Years ago, I experienced significant trauma within the conventional medical system, suffering both medical and pharmaceutical trauma that left a deep impact on my life. As a result of that experience, I developed agoraphobia, which made even the simplest daily activities feel overwhelming.

Over time, I’ve worked hard to heal, step by step, and I’ve come a long way in reclaiming my sense of peace and freedom. Healing hasn’t only been about the physical aspects—it’s also been about prioritizing my mental and emotional health. I’ve learned to slow down, truly listen to my body, and focus on activities that bring me joy, both at home and in my professional life. This journey has taught me the importance of balance, self-compassion, and creating a life that feels fulfilling despite the challenges. I am journaling to track symptoms and trends and I am advocating for myself because having a blood clot is a big deal and no one knows my body better than me. I’ve joined an online support group and connected with others who have been through similar experiences. They’re helping me stay grounded and realistic about recovery outcomes, which, truthfully, remain uncertain.

Final Thoughts – Recovering from Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) is a journey, not a race. Over the past two months, I’ve come to understand that there’s no quick fix—but there is a way forward. By combining modern medicine, natural remedies, and intuitive self-care, healing becomes a process you can navigate. Trust your body. Honor your journey. Healing isn’t linear, but progress is happening—step by step. I am healing. I am growing. I am enough.

I am that… I am.

References

Bustamante, J. G., Goyal, A., Rout, P., & Singhal, M. (2024). Antiphospholipid syndrome. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved March 30, 2025, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430980/

Cleveland Clinic. Post-thrombotic syndrome. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24936-post-thrombotic-syndrome

Hippisley-Cox, J., Patone, M., Mei, X. W., Saatci, D., Dixon, S., Zaccardi, F., … & Coupland, C. (2022). Risk of thrombocytopenia and thromboembolism after COVID-19 vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 positive testing: Self-controlled case series study. BMJ, 376, e068579. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34446426/

Hewlings, S. J., & Kalman, D. S. (2017). Curcumin: A review of its effects on human health. Foods, 6(10), 92. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods6100092

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Kesieme, E., Kesieme, C., Jebbin, N., Irekpita, E., & Dongo, A. (2011). Deep vein thrombosis: A clinical review. Journal of Blood Medicine, 2, 59–69. https://doi.org/10.2147/JBM.S19009

Meng, H., Johnston, B., Englesakis, M., Moulin, D. E., & Bhatia, A. (2019). Selective cannabinoids for chronic neuropathic pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 191(16), E463–E472. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28537982/

National Blood Clot Alliance. Post-thrombotic syndrome. https://www.stoptheclot.org/postthrombotic-syndrome/

Pacher, P., & Mechoulam, R. (2011). Is lipid signaling through cannabinoid 2 receptors part of a protective system? Progress in Lipid Research, 50(2), 193-211. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plipres.2011.01.001

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