I was thoroughly tested for pulmonary embolism and all was well. The elevated D-DIMER was found in my blood tests when I went into the ER for pneumonia and pleurisy. I still will test elevated almost a year later.
Also, people with lupus or mixed tissue connective disease, will almost always have a positive d-dimer. The key is to know your body. If you have pulmonary issues, pay attention to how your chest feels when it flares up, especially if you have asthma. Also let Drs or medical personnel know ahead of time that your d-dimer will likely be positive when seeking medical treatment. It can sometimes save you from unnecessary test
Its a clotting issue with your blood. You need someone to follow up on that test to be sure you are not developing DIC which will cause small clots in the smaller vessels which in turn will cause your blood to stop clotting at all.
I was in the ER last night for 5 hours because of a high D -dimer. Since the D- dimer detects inflammation, do we with lupus always have a high d dimer? Did your d dimer stay about the same numbers when it was retested? I've was diagnosed less than a year ago.
Thank you Cartij24! Very good information!
Wow. Thank you for the heads up!