Lap Band Complication Symptoms

Lap band surgery can seem like an easy way to lose weight. However, the surgery can lead to serious complications that can affect the quality of life. Knowing what lap band complication symptoms to look for after having the surgery could save your life.

Rapid Weight Loss

• Losing weight too quickly after lap band surgery can be a symptom of malnutrition. Malnutrition can lead to hair loss, organ failure, and death.

Vomiting

• Frequent vomiting or vomiting blood can result from lap band slippage or bad placement of the lap band.Vomiting can also result from eating more than your stomach pouch can hold.

Difficulty Swallowing

• Difficulty swallowing can be a sign of a weakened or inflamed esophagus.

Severe Abdominal Pain

• Severe abdominal pain could mean there is an infection at the lap band site. It can also be a symptom of pancreatitis, a perforated or ulcerated stomach, and gallbladder, liver or spleen damage.

Severe Constipation

• Severe or repeated constipation can be a sign of a blockage caused by the lap band slipping or being placed incorrectly.

Warning

• According to the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, 25% of lap band patients experience major complications, including death.