Yasmin and Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia is described as the rare condition of having an overly high potassium concentration in the blood. Normally, a person’s kidneys regulate the level of potassium and help to maintain equilibrium in the bloodstream. Hyperkalemia is one condition that may develop if a patient has a kidney disease or kidney failure.
While the condition is relatively rare, especially in young, healthy individuals, it has become more common in women who take the birth control pills Yaz, Yasmin, or Ocella. These drugs may throw off the usual potassium equilibrium in the bloodstream, increasing a woman’s risk of hyperkalemia.
Symptoms of Hyperkalemia
The symptoms of hyperkalemia vary from person to person. Some symptoms that are commonly reported are:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Heart palpitations
- Nausea
- Slow or weak pulse
Many people, however, do not experience any symptoms at all until a more serious health condition develops. A person with hyperkalemia may go into cardiac arrest without warning. If you are afflicted with any of the above symptoms for more than a minute or two, consider seeking medical attention to determine if you are suffering from hyperkalemia.
Because this condition often goes unnoticed, it can be especially dangerous. Anyone with a personal or family history of kidney problems should consider seeking other birth control alternatives to avoid an increased risk of hyperkalemia. Even if you are a young woman with no history of kidney problems, it is possible that Yaz, Yasmin, or Ocella could elevate your chance of developing unbalanced potassium levels.
If you develop hyperkalemia or an associated cardiovascular condition and suspect that your birth control may be the cause, consider contacting a side effect lawyer immediately. Your contraceptive may be responsible for your illness and you may be entitled to compensation from the drug manufacturer.
Contact Us
For sound legal advice and assistance regarding the risks associated with these oral contraceptives and how you can initiate a claim for compensation, please contact the experienced Yaz side effect attorneys of Williams Kherkher today at 800-761-3187.
