Yaz birth control side effects involving pulmonary embolism is caused by an embolus that travels to the lung arteries, forms a blockage, and prevents blood from reaching the underlying tissue. The tissue begins to die. The once-healthy portion of the lung is eventually replaced by scar tissue. Please contact us for the latest Yaz lawsuit settlements news and information.
The extent of lung damage that results from a PE depends on the size of the embolus – in this case, a blood clot – and how quickly a blockage is treated. Because symptoms are similar to those which present for other ailments, the first step is to form a conclusive diagnosis. One of the most accurate diagnostic methods used today is pulmonary angiography. It is also among the most invasive.
How Pulmonary Angiography Is Performed
The purpose of a pulmonary angiogram is to show how blood flows through your lung arteries. X-rays are taken that help your doctor identify abnormalities that are blocking the passage of blood to the lung tissue. Because x-rays will not display blood clots, a radiopaque contrast dye must be introduced into your arteries. This is done through catheterization.
Your doctor will make a small incision in your groin or arm, and insert a catheter into a nearby blood vessel. The catheter is guided toward your vena cava, a large vein that carries oxygen-poor blood directly to your heart. The catheter is threaded through this vein, into the right side of your heart, and finally, into one of your pulmonary arteries. There, the contrast dye is released.
As the dye flows through your pulmonary arteries, live x-rays reveal areas where blockages exist. This makes it relatively easy for your doctor to identify clots that are preventing blood from reaching your lung tissue.
Once the x-rays have been taken and your doctor is satisfied that the arterial network of your lungs is sufficiently displayed, the catheter is withdrawn. The test requires less than two hours to complete.
Potential Risks Associated With The Test
Though it is extremely accurate for diagnosing Yaz problems involving a PE, pulmonary angiography poses several risks. First, the introduction of the catheter into the right side of your heart can potentially cause a mild disruption in your heart rhythm. It is usually temporary and can be controlled with medications.
Second, the radiopaque dye can cause kidney damage. Though it is usually temporary, the damage is occasionally permanent.
Third, there is a risk of bleeding at the entry site (i.e. groin or arm). Bleeding under the skin can cause a hematoma. Like most bruises, it will resolve itself with time.
Fourth, patients occasionally have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. This reaction may be mild and limited to itching or a small rash. Or, it can be more serious and include breathing difficulties and even shock.
Because of the potential risks and invasive nature of pulmonary angiography, the test is normally reserved as a last measure for producing a conclusive diagnosis. In most cases, a ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan and helical computerized tomography (CT) scan are done beforehand.
What Happens After PE Is Diagnosed?
Once your doctor has diagnosed a pulmonary embolism, anticoagulants are administered to prevent further clotting. If the existing blood clots are large and have create a sizable blockage, thrombolytic medications are introduced to dissolve them.
In circumstances where your life may be in danger, your doctor may perform a catheter-based technique called suction thrombectomy. He or she will thread a catheter to the blockage and attempt to shatter the clot. If these treatment measures are unsuccessful in resolving a life-threatening PE, a surgeon may perform pulmonary embolectomy. This is an invasive surgical procedure during which the offending clot is removed.
If you have suffered from Yaz side effects including deep vein thrombosis, or PE after taking this birth control pill, you may be due compensation for your injuries. Yaz lawyers can help explain your legal options.

