Every surgical procedure has side effects associated with the procedure. Side effects occur in the majority of patients after surgery and may require changes in eating habits or the addition of vitamins or medications.
Intragastric Balloon Side Effects
These complications require additional tests for evaluation and may require medications or surgery to treat. Intragastric balloon is associated with the following risks:
- Abdominal pain in first 2-5 days- usually cramping related to your body trying to eliminate the device.
- Nausea and vomiting in first 2-5 days- this is a limited reaction to the placement of the balloon. Symptoms are less if you take the medication prescribed for you.
- A sensation of the balloon moving- more common with the single balloon. Some patients feel the balloon move but this is nothing worrisome.
- Gas belching or bloating.
- Bad breath- usually treated by drinking diet coke daily for 2-3 days- the acidity of the soda cleans the balloons.