Whenever we choose to have something implanted into our body, whether it is out of medical necessity, as in hip or knee replacement surgeries, or for enhancement, as in breast implants, we run the risk of infection and other complications. Making sure the materials used for anything implanted in the human body is critical for the health and well being of the patient. If you have had implants of any kind, how do you know if you are experiencing a defect? Below are some signs and symptoms that you should not ignore.
Some Signs of Breast Implant Defects
If you have breast implants, depending on the type of saline or silicone and other materials that are involved, you could experience severe health issues if the implant ruptures, is punctured or leaks inside your body. Some signs and symptoms that you have defective breast implants include:
- fever
- fatigue
- hair loss
- back pain
- breast pain
- skin irritations
- kidney problems
- difficulty breathing
- chemical sensitivity
- muscle pain, or stiffness
- swollen joints, joint pain
If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor immediately. And, as with any type of implant, get regular checkups to detect any problems as early as possible.
Signs of Hip Implant Defects
People who have had hip replacement surgery in the last couple of years may be at risk of infection from a defective hip implant as a result of the materials used for the mechanical hip. If you have had a hip implant, check with your healthcare provider, or do some research online, to see if your hip implant is one that is under investigation or being recalled, like the Stryker hip recall.
Some indications that you may have a defective hip implant include:
- lower back pain
- hip, leg or joint pain
- swelling in the hip area
- elevated cobalt and chromium levels in your blood
- difficulty and discomfort walking, standing or sitting
- hip weakness, or a clicking or popping sensation under the skin in the area of the implant
Once you have contacted your medical professional to receive the proper medical care and to discuss your options regarding any type of medical treatment, you may want to contact an experienced attorney. If the symptoms you are experiencing are widespread among others who have the same type of surgical implant, or especially if the product has been recalled, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your pain, suffering and potential additional surgeries that could be needed to correct the problem. An attorney who is experienced in medical malpractice or negligence, can help advise you on how to proceed.
Any type of surgery is always a risk, but implant surgeries that are medically necessary are intended to help people live a better quality of life. If your implant is defective in any way, and your quality of life is deteriorating as a result, you may benefit from getting medical and legal assistance as soon as possible.
Lisa Coleman shares a few common kinds of implants and some important signs and symptoms of defects. She recently read online about the Stryker hip recall and how an attorney can help file a claim when a recall has taken place.