@eansgardengirl
Hello, and welcome! I too have a new diagnosis of ET, and trying to navigate these strange waters. I’m 69 years old, JAK 2 positive and have counts that have been in the 450-530 range. When I first went to the hematologist, they recommended starting HU right away-this was the same day I was told of the diagnosis. No mention of a low-dose aspirin was made, just the HU.
Needless to say I was in shock, but went home to do my own research. On my own, I started taking a low-dose aspirin every day, but continued to think that the HU therapy was a bit aggressive for me. At my next appointment, I asked for a second opinion and was given a list of prospects by a very helpful PA. I was able to choose one myself (and I feel that’s very important!) and the hematologist set up the appointment.
The second appointment was the following week, and happily, the hematologist-and MPN specialist- agreed with me. So presently, I’m taking 2 low-dose aspirin, only.
Again, I’m new to this, so not certain, but my magic number seems to be 600. If/when my platelets hit that number, I will need to start the HU. I’d like to put that off as long as possible, but the numbers don’t lie… it’s frustrating, because I feel I have so little control over this. My only symptoms are muscle weakness and a bit of fatigue. But I’ll be 70 next month, so maybe my symptoms are due to old age! Lol! I still try to be as active as ever, walking 4 mi. a day, and going to senior aerobics, but have noticed, mostly, the muscle weakness.
I’m grateful for resources like this one, and other online groups. By listening to others at least you can arm yourself with questions and concerns with your dr.
Best of luck to you! Discuss this with as many patients as you can and don’t be afraid to get a second opinion.
Best…