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What about no treatment for ET?

Blood Cancers & Disorders | Last Active: Sep 5 7:07pm | Replies (5)
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@loribmt

Hi Patty, With ET, essential thrombocythemia, there is an overabundance of platelets in the blood. The risk of not treating this condition could lead to strokes and transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes), Heart attacks or
Pulmonary embolism, when a blood clot blocks an artery in the lungs.

Here’s a good article from verywellhealth.com providing information on ET and why it’s important to treat.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/essential-thrombocythemia-2860907
Has your doctor recommended treatment such as Hydroxyurea and you’re hesitating to start the medication? What are your reservations?

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Replies to "Hi Patty, With ET, essential thrombocythemia, there is an overabundance of platelets in the blood. The..."
pattycz | @pattycz | Sep 4 10:47am

My numbers are only in 500 and many people have much higher numbers than I do. I am at risk because I do have controlled blood pressure and uncontrolled cholesterol and a family history of heart attacks. I was already on the Hydro and I ended up in the ER because I’ve had so many side effects, especially my legs and my doctor has told me that that is not a typical symptom. The hematologist said the second line of defense in terms of side effects is worse than Hydro. I am very sensitive to medication because I have not taken them most of my life.

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