Yaz and Pulmonary Embolism
Yaz and Yasmin are forms of birth control that use a synthetic hormone called drospirenone. The Yaz and Yasmin lawsuits allege that contraceptive pills containing drospirenone may be more likely to cause unintended side effects, including blood clots in the deep veins of the body or pulmonary embolism.
Yaz linked to blood clots and pulmonary embolisms
Drospirenone, a progestin in Yaz and Yasmin birth control pills, is a relatively new hormone with comparatively little data about the long-term safety risks associated with its use. Recently, the use of drospirenone-containing oral contraceptives has been linked with an increased risk of blood clots, in which the blood hardens within a blood vessel in the body.
Embolism occurs when a blood clot forms in one part of the body frees itself, and then travels through the blood stream until it becomes stuck in a blood vessel in another part of the body. A stroke may result if a blood clot travels to the brain, and a heart attack may result if a blood clot travels to the heart.
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the lung arteries, a condition which can be life-threatening. The presence of the blood clot stops blood circulation, meaning that blood does not circulate in the lungs properly. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Bloody cough
- Chest pains
- Blue coloring
Unless properly treated, a pulmonary embolism can lead to permanent damage to the lungs, and even death. Treatment may involve administration of drugs designed to prevent blood clots and to reduce the size of blood clots that are already in existence. In some cases, surgical removal of the clot may also be required.
Other Yaz complications arising from deep vein thrombosis
When blood clots form in a deep vein in your body, this is referred to as deep vein thrombosis, and can cause a number of life threatening complications:
- Limb ischemia: Limb ischemia is a sudden lack of blood flow to one of your limbs that can occur when a blood clot causes pressure in the veins and prevents blood and oxygen from traveling to the legs or other limbs. Gangrene and other infections may result, as well as leg ulcers.
- Post-thrombotic syndrome: This occurs when blood clots damage the valves of your veins, causing blood to become trapped in the lower legs. This excess blood can pool, causing discomfort and significant long-term swelling.
Speak to a Yaz Lawyer
If you or a loved one have suffered from a pulmonary embolism or other side effects related to Yaz, it is important to act now to make your claim for damages. Fill out the form to your right or call (866) 981-4800 for a free and confidential consultation with a Yaz lawyer.