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Tpn Side Effects

TPN (total parenteral nutrition) is used if you are unable to get your nutritional needs met through eating. This may be due to digestive illnesses, such as ulceractive colitis, or other conditions that prevent your body from absorbing nutrients from food. TPN, administered intravenously or via a catheter, comprises carbohydrates, protein, lipids, electrolytes and trace elements. Various side effects are associated with TPN usage.

  1. Common Signs to Watch For

    • Call your doctor if you experience any changes in your skin, altered night vision, mouth sores, fever, abdominal pain, weight changes, vomiting, nausea, chills, increase in urination, breathing problems, fatigue, swelling, muscle weakness, thirst, seizures or tingling in your feet or hands.

    Site Infections

    • An infection at the site of administration may occur. Symptoms include warmth, drainage, redness, tenderness, irritation, pain and swelling. If this occurs, your doctor will need to change the site and treat the infection.

    Glucose Irregularities

    • Abnormalities in your glucose levels may occur. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) may be caused by an abrupt halt of a dextrose infusion, and hyperglycemia (raised blood sugar) may require insulin to manage. Treatment depends upon the severity of the condition.

    Liver Problems

    • According to the Merck Online Medical Library, liver problems are most prevalent in infants but may occur in patients of any age. Symptoms of liver dysfunction include elevated cholesterol levels, weight gain, digestive problems and jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin and eyes.

    Bone Problems

    • Patients receiving TPN longer than three months may develop metabolic bone disease. This can cause severe pain in your lower extremities and back.

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