Why have I been given this leaflet?
You have been given this leaflet because you have recently had an epidural inserted.
Serious risks from epidurals are rare (1 in 13,000) but can present up to 10 days after having your epidural. Please be observant for the signs and symptoms listed below once discharged from hospital.
- Headaches which worsen when sitting up or standing, and ease when lying flat
- Redness, swelling or discharge persistent or worsening at the epidural site
- Persistent fever (high temperature, sweats, shakes)
- Severe pain, previously not experienced, around the site where the epidural was removed
- Numbness or weakness of the legs and/or loss of bladder and bowel control.
If you develop any of the above symptoms please contact:
Go to your nearest emergency department if the above is not possible.
Please inform them that you have recently had an epidural.
Data Protection
Any personal information is kept confidential. There may be occasions where your information needs to be shared with other care professionals to ensure you receive the best care possible.
In order to assist us to improve the services available, your information may be used for clinical audit, research, teaching and anonymised for National NHS Reviews and Statistics.
Further information is available via Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust website or by contacting the Data Protection Officer by telephone on 0191 445 8418 or by email [email protected].
This leaflet can be made available in other languages and formats upon request.