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Side Effects of Feeding Tubes

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes are inserted through the abdominal wall directly into the stomach of patients who need to maintain proper weight and nutrition, but cannot do so orally.

  1. Serious Side Effects

    • According to the Oral Cancer Foundation (OCF), there is a one-percent chance of peristomal leakage or gastric hemorrhage.

    Minor Side Effects

    • Aspiration, when food is inhaled into the lungs, is the most common side effect of a feeding tube, and can lead to pneumonia. The OCF asserts that there is an eight-percent chance of infection, stomal leakage, tube extrusion or migration and fistula formation.

    Tension, Clogging & Bloating

    • If excess tension is exerted upon the tube, it can lead to internal-abdominal tissue death. If food other then commercial formulas are fed through the tube, it will likely clog. Flushing the tube with water ensures free flow, but can also lead to bloating.

    Accelerated Feeding

    • Feeding tubes are designed to feed by dripping. If this is accelerated, there is a risk of abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gastric distension and an increased risk of aspiration.

    Oral Care

    • People with PEG tubes must be given optimal-oral care because they are at increased risk of dry, cracking oral mucosa and sores.

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