What Are the Risks of a Gastric Balloon ?

Even though the gastric balloon procedure is considered one of the safest, it also has its downside. However, gastric balloon for weight seem better because the side effects are lessened and it provides more results. Meanwhile, the gastric balloon procedure involves inserting a saline-filled silicone balloon into your stomach to reduce the amount you eat. The balloon will make you feel fuller.

In addition, the gastric balloon may be a suitable option if you have tried dieting and exercising to lose weight but have had no results. Nevertheless, you must change your lifestyle to ensure the gastric balloon procedure is successful. Check out some of the possible downsides of a gastric balloon procedure:

Stomach discomfort

Remember, the gastric balloon is inserted in your stomach; therefore, it is likely that you will feel some discomfort. The stomach discomfort may not last for too long but a few days. If the discomfort last more than a few days, reach out to a physician. In addition, the physician will also prescribe medication to ease the stomach discomfort.

Pain and Nausea

One of the complaints of people who have a gastric balloon is feeling pain and nausea. Most often, the pain and nausea happen immediately after the insertion of the balloon. However, the pain and nausea often go away after a few days. A complaint to your physician can quickly resolve this pain and nausea. It becomes an issue if the pain and nausea last for weeks. Contact your physician when you notice this side effect.

Weakness

The most common symptom of gastric balloon procedure is weakness. Usually, for the first three days, eating may not be easy, and you are likely to feel a little weak. According to various studies, it is pretty normal to feel sluggish for the first three days after the gastric balloon procedure. Most often, for the first three days, you would take only fluids and may not eat anything solid at the initial stage.

Vomiting

Vomiting occurs in more than 90% of patients is common. Remember, the stomach is not used to the inserted gastric balloon. Nevertheless, vomiting may occur within the first 3 to 7 days of inserting the gastric balloon. After this period, it will stop, and your stomach will adjust.

Conclusion

Notwithstanding the side effects that have been outlined above, the gastric balloon is regarded as a safe procedure for loss. Compared to weight loss surgery, using a gastric balloon is safer. Also, the gastric balloon can be removed if the discomfort continues. However, weight loss surgery may not achieve its aim if the patient refuses to live a healthy lifestyle.

Additionally, the physician has to check if inserting a gastric balloon will be suitable for you. In other words, gastric balloons are often not recommended for patients who have life-threatening ailments like heart disease, kidney issues, etc. Relate your concerns to your physician, as they would be in a position to explain gastric balloon pros and cons to you.