Mirena IUDs are a popular form of contraception, but using one may come with serious health problems. A Mirena IUD takes about a week to start working but can be used up to 5 years and is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, making it appealing to a lot of women. It’s nonsurgical and can be removed at any time.
However, lawsuits are being filed against Bayer, the manufacturer of Mirena IUD, claiming that the IUD is causing pseudotumor cerebri (PTC). While this condition is not fatal, it can cause permanent damage to those who develop it. PTC is a build-up of spinal fluid in the skull mimicking a brain tumor. The fluid leads to extreme pressure in the skull causing migraines and blindness. If not treated quickly, blindness can become permanent.
PTC is so similar to a brain tumor, that it is often misdiagnosed. By the time it is properly diagnosed, some of the symptoms could already be permanent. PTC can be diagnosed through a spinal tap, MRIs, change in optic nerves, and stenosis. For treatment in mild cases, medication can reduce the pressure. In severe cases, surgical tubes must be inserted into the skull to drain the fluid.
It has been known since the 1990s that products, such as Mirena, that use levonorgestrel (synthetic hormones) can cause a higher risk for PTC. If you or someone you know is using a Mirena IUD, be aware of the side effects including: frequent headaches beginning behind their eyes, pain worsening when rolling their eyes, blurred or double vision, temporary blindness or blind spots, and ringing in the ears. If any of these symptoms are present, you should speak to your doctor immediately.
Lawsuits that have been filed allege that Bayer failed to warn patients and doctors about the risks of developing permanent damage from pseudotumor cerebri.
If you or someone you know has experienced issues with a Mirena IUD, please contact one of our attorneys. We can help review your case to see what legal options you may have.
