Questions to ask: Blood clots (DVT and PE)
Diagnosis
- Do I have a DVT, a PE, or both? Where exactly is the clot?
- Was my clot provoked or unprovoked? What do you think caused it?
- How serious is my PE? Is my heart under strain?
- Can I be treated at home, or do I need to stay in the hospital?
- Do I need any tests for clotting disorders? Would the results change my treatment?
- Should I have cancer screening tests that I am due for?
- Do any of my current medicines, such as birth control or hormones, raise my clot risk?
- Should my family members know about my clot?
- Is a hematologist (blood specialist) needed for my care?
Before
- Which blood thinner do you recommend for me, and why?
- How do I take it, and what do I do if I miss a dose?
- How long will I need to take it?
- Do I need regular blood tests with this medicine?
- Which pain relievers are safe for me to take?
- Are any of my other medicines or supplements a problem with this blood thinner?
- What signs of bleeding should I watch for?
- Will my insurance cover this medicine, and is there a lower-cost option?
- Is it safe for me to fly or travel right now?
- Can I exercise, and are there activities I should avoid?
During
- How will we know the clot is getting better?
- Is my leg swelling or shortness of breath normal at this point?
- Is the bleeding I have a reason to change my blood thinner?
- I need a procedure or dental work. Should I stop my blood thinner, and for how long?
- Could I switch to a lower dose after the first months?
- What birth control is safe for me?
- If I have cancer, which blood thinner fits best with my cancer treatment?
- Who do I call after hours if I have a question?
After
- Is it safe to stop my blood thinner, or should I keep taking it?
- What is my chance of another clot if I stop?
- What can I do to prevent another clot before surgery, travel, or pregnancy?
- What should I do about lasting leg swelling or pain?
- If I still feel short of breath months after a PE, should I have more tests?
- How often should I see you for follow-up?
- What should I tell future doctors about my clot history?
Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.