Epidural Blood Patch Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have an epidural blood patch, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Bleeding
• Bad reaction to the anesthesia, contrast dye solution, or sedative medicine (eg, light-headedness, low blood pressure, and/or wheezing)
• Infection

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Taking blood thinners prior to the procedure
• Current infection

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the epidural blood patch.

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Continued pain or discomfort (beyond 24 hours)
• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Limb weakness, numbness, or unusual sensations
• Trouble emptying bladder or bowels
• Stiff neck

In case of an emergency, CALL 911.