APS FAQs
These FAQs are intended to help APS patients with common queries they may have. Always consult with your doctor or specialist for more information
Can APS be the cause of memory problems if an MRI is clear?
Yes. We see patients with sometimes quite marked memory problems who have a normal MRI. Memory loss, alongside migraines, is the most common feature of Hughes Syndrome. It can range from mild to severe and often be mistaken for developing Alzheimer’s. If you are experiencing memory problems then it is advised that you alert your doctor as soon as possible so that appropriate tests can be run.
Must I come off anticoagulants to get accurate results for a blood screen?
No, in general anticoagulants do not affect your routine bloodstream so there is no need to come off them for an accurate blood screen.
What proportion of people diagnosed with APS live with a permanent impairment in their lives?
The exact figure is unknown, but it is estimated to be around 5-10% that have major clots which result in permanent impairment. The brain is sensitive to APS, therefore the worst feature of APS would be a stroke. Data from the Euro-Phospholipid Project Group estimated that about 50% of strokes below 50 years of age are caused by APS.
Could stress make APS worse?
Yes it can do, though this is common with a lot of diseases.
Can general infections flare up APS?
Yes, one may experience APS flare ups following a general infection. In extreme cases, severe infection may lead to catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS). CAPS is a rare but serious complication of APS. It occurs in less than 1% of people with APS. In people who develop CAPS, blood clots suddenly form throughout the body, resulting in multiple organ failure.