There are many reasons that can result in one getting an epidural injection and they can vary from one person to another. Some of the reported causes include raptured disks within the spine, a deformity in the bones where one of the bones ends up protruding into the spinal cord and even bulging of the vertebral disks . The number of shots administered will however be determine how quickly the pains subsides after receiving the first shot.
The procedure for one to get an epidural injection is usually very simple and does not require one to undergo surgery as its known to be the fear of most people. The first step is injecting a local anesthesia that will prevent one from feeling intense pain when the injection is done to the spinal cord. After complete numbing on the area, the injection containing the epidural steroids is slowly injected into the spinal cord. Within after a few minutes one can comfortably walk home.
There are few risks involved if one undergoes the procedure however it is not fault proof. The skin usually contains some bacteria and when such bacteria are introduced into the spine by the injection, it can result in infections that can lead to serious complications such as meningitis. Dural puncture has also been reported among some patients with some even complaining of bleeding.
Side effects at times do appear after one gets the injection and vary depending on an individual. People who have undergone the procedure have reported anxiety, stomach ulcers, arthritis, and in patients who suffer from diabetes, a rise in blood pressure. X ray radiation that one is usually exposed to when the doctor is locating where to make the injection can at times results in allergies.
One should however not panic if they experience this complications and side effects after undergoing the procedure. With the right treatment full recovery is possible. It is however important not to ignore any small issue as spinal related complications can usually end up causing allot of harm. In some cases even paralysis. Simple side effects such as headaches can however be dealt with by ensuring you get enough rest and drink plenty of fluids.
Due to the sensitivity of the procedure, it is always good to ensure that you get a certified medical practitioner to do it. Such an injection should not be administered as a result of an over the counter prescription but rather upon proper medical testing. The procedure can be repeated multiple times without posing any major health complication.
More and more people are now undergoing the treatment as a result of its efficiency in terms of pain relief when faced with pain along the spinal cord region. It is rather safe and can be done on a variety of people without risk of major complications.
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