When Do Doctors Prescribe the D-Dimer Test?

 A D-dimer test can help doctors to determine the level of D-dimer protein in one's body. D-dimer is often undetectable at extremely low levels until one’s body develops and breaks down significant blood clots. A D-Dimer test can help identify if an individual has a blood clotting problem. However, it is not a clear indicator of the condition. A D-dimer test cannot tell you what kind of clotting condition you have or where the clotting is happening in your body. If there are high D-dimer levels in your blood, your doctor may do additional blood tests to reach a final diagnosis. The D-Dimer test is usually prescribed when a doctor suspects these conditions:

Pulmonary embolism (PE)


Pulmonary embolism can develop when a clot forms near the arteries of the lungs. It commonly happens when a blood clot gets stuck in another organ escapes and travels to the lungs. DVT clots are the most common cause of PE.


Signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:

  • Dyspnoea, fast breathing, or shortness of breath

  • Sharp chest discomfort that is worsened by coughing or movement

  • Sweating more than normal

  • A fast heartbeat (tachycardia)

  • Back pain

  • Feeling weak or lightheaded


If you are facing any of the signs of this clotting issue, you should see a medical professional as soon as possible.


Strokes


Strokes can occur when a blood clot limits the blood flow to the brain.


A stroke can cause the following symptoms:


  • Your face, arm, or leg goes numb or weak all of a sudden, especially on one side of your body.

  • Sudden difficulty understanding, talking or understanding what is said.

  • Unexpected vision difficulties in one or both eyes.

  • Dizziness, unbalance, or impaired coordination can occur suddenly.

  • A sudden, painful headache with no clear reason.


If you are starting to experience any of the signs of this clotting issue, you should see a doctor right away. So, these are some of the conditions for which your doctor can prescribe you a D-dimer test.

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