What's the outlook for people with APS

Although there is currently no cure for APS the outlook for many patients is very positive, particularly those who have been diagnosed early and treated appropriately.

Being diagnosed as early as possible and treated correctly seems to have a direct bearing on how well patients will feel in the future. Some patients feel very well and have no symptoms, while others are more affected and find day-to-day living a struggle, particularly if they have had to recover from more than one thrombotic episode.

In pregnancy, the treatment of APS now means that women have a 70% chance of a successful birth compared to just 20% before diagnosis.

Despite being a potentially life-threatening condition, the general prognosis for most APS patients is good, and with the correct treatment and lifestyle changes the majority of patients can lead a relatively normal life provided they continue with their medication.

However, unfortunately a small number of people with APS continue to experience blood clots despite having extensive treatment – the reasons for this are still not known.