What is APS?
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder that causes your immune system to mistakenly create antibodies that attack certain proteins in your blood. These antibodies can cause blood clots to form in your arteries and veins.
Key Symptoms
- Blood clots in veins (deep vein thrombosis)
- Blood clots in arteries
- Pregnancy complications, including:
- Recurrent miscarriages
- Preeclampsia
- Premature birth
- Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
Risk Factors
- Gender (more common in women)
- Age (most common between 20-50 years)
- Other autoimmune conditions, especially:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Blood tests for antiphospholipid antibodies
- Confirmation tests after 12 weeks
- Clinical history of blood clots or pregnancy complications
Treatment Options
Blood Thinners
- Heparin
- Warfarin
- Other anticoagulants
Additional Treatments
- Low-dose aspirin
- Hydroxychloroquine (in some cases)
- Regular monitoring of blood levels
Living with APS
Lifestyle Modifications
- Regular exercise
- Smoking cessation
- Maintaining healthy weight
- Avoiding long periods of immobility
Pregnancy Management
- Close monitoring throughout pregnancy
- Special blood-thinning treatments
- Regular consultations with specialists
When to Seek Emergency Care
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Severe headache with vision changes
- Signs of stroke
- Severe leg pain or swelling
Prevention Strategies
- Take medications as prescribed
- Attend regular check-ups
- Monitor blood levels consistently
- Report new symptoms promptly