I have Essential Thrombocythemia and take Hydroxycarbamide
I was diagnosed with ET having been admitted to hospital with a portal vien thrombosis. My platelet count was very high at 1550 and it was decided that I needed to take Hydroxycarbamide for the rest of my life. I was also prescribed Warfarin again for the rest of my life. Both of these medicines come with side effects but for now not too difficult. The blood tests to check INR can be restrictive and the slightest thing can change it at any time. Hydroxycarbamide brings it's own problems with tiredness and joint pain but the biggest problem for me has been the need to wear a condom for sex. I am investigating other types of condoms to eliviate erection problems. A difficult subject to discuss with anyone but sexual relationships are very important! Otherwise I'm fairly healthy and have a good heamatologist who I see every 12 weeks or so.
