As a Kentucky patient with an inferior vena cava filter, or an IVC, you may benefit from their ability to catch blood clots before they can reach the heart, lungs or brain. However, there are several problems that can occur with the IVC filters that we at Gary C. Johnson believe you should be aware of.
First, it is important to note that there are many IVC filters on the current market that are produced well and will not cause the user any problems. Unfortunately, there are some models that are not built as well. These are the ones that can cause you mild to severe physical side-effects.
On the mild side of the scale, you may experience issues like nausea, neck pain or lightheadedness. While these are considered lighter symptoms, they should still be treated seriously because they can be the sign of a poorly made IVC filter. This could lead to the more severe issues, which include hypotension, heart rhythm problems, difficulties breathing, or even damage to the heart or lungs. On the extreme side, problems with an IVC filter can even cause internal bleeding or stroke, which can lead to death.
In addition to these physical issues, IVC filters may also break if they are poorly made. This can contribute to things like internal bleeding, especially if splinters of the filter material penetrate other organs or vessels.
If you have an IVC filter and have experienced any of these symptoms, you may wish to seek medical attention swiftly. Please visit our web page on IVC filters and their correspondent issues for further information.