Signs and symptoms
IVCS presents with a wide variety of signs and symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose clinically.
Edema of the lower extremities (peripheral edema), caused by an increase in the venous blood pressure.
Tachycardia. This is caused by decreased preload, decreased cardiac output, and leads to increased frequency.
In pregnant women, signs of fetal hypoxia and distress may be seen in the cardiotocography. This is caused by decreased perfusion of the uterus, resulting in hypoxemia of the fetus.
Supine hypotensive syndrome
Treatment
Treatment will vary depending on the cause of the vena cava compression or interruption. Often, treatment includes positional changes, avoidance of supine positioning, especially on the right side. In pregnancy, definitive management of the IVCS is to deliver the baby. In other conditions, medical or surgical treatment to remove or relieve the offending structure will relieve symptoms.
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