Severe Bruising After IV Attempt: Need Insights
Hello everyone, I’m a 20-year-old female weighing 125 pounds. I visited the emergency room two nights ago due to cardiac-related issues including pain in my left shoulder, tightness in my chest, and an elevated heart rate. I have been diagnosed with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). While in the ER, the medical staff tried to insert an IV on three separate occasions, but all attempts were unsuccessful. One of these attempts resulted in a blown vein. Although I anticipated some bruising, the severity of the bruising where the vein ruptured has been much greater than expected, and it's causing me significant pain. After removing the bandages last night, I took a closer look at the site, and it appears quite concerning. Some of my friends who are in pre-med have expressed worry about how prominent the bruising looks in comparison to the other IV sites. This has made me somewhat anxious, and I'm seeking advice from medical professionals before considering a trip to urgent care. Regarding my medications, I have a Nexplanon implant. During my visit to the ER, they administered two doses of oral Valium, along with aspirin, Tylenol, and potassium chloride. Since my discharge, I haven’t taken any other medications, and I do not consume alcohol, smoke, or use recreational drugs. I believe I’ve covered everything essential, but if there's anything else you require, please let me know, and I’ll provide more details!
Answers (1)
7/4/2025, 9:50:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a concerning situation regarding your bruising after the IV attempts. Severely bruised areas can be alarming, especially given your diagnosis of vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which affects the integrity of your blood vessels. Let’s address your concerns about the severity of the bruising and what you can do next.
Main Points
- Bruising after IV attempts can occur, especially in individuals with vascular issues like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
- While severe bruising can be worrisome, there are steps you can take to manage the symptoms and monitor the area.
Explanation
Severe bruising, particularly after multiple IV attempts, may be due to the fragile nature of your blood vessels associated with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. The "blown vein" indicates that the needle might have punctured through the vein wall, leading to blood pooling under the skin. Factors such as your overall health, the technique used, and your vascular condition can impact how you bruise.
While it’s natural for bruising to cause some pain and concern, it is often self-limiting. The body gradually absorbs the blood over time, but it's crucial to monitor for any complications.
Next Steps
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Monitor the Bruising: Reflect on any changes in size, color, or pain level in the bruised area over the next 24-48 hours. Take note of any new symptoms such as swelling, increased warmth, or redness.
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Pain Management: If you're experiencing significant pain, you may take Tylenol (acetaminophen), as advised before. Avoid NSAIDs like aspirin unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise, as they can sometimes increase bleeding risk.
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Apply Cold Compress: For immediate relief, apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the bruised area for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed. This can help reduce swelling and numb the area.
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure you're drinking enough fluids, which can support vascular health and recovery.
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Consider Follow-Up: If the bruising worsens, doesn’t improve in a few days, or if you notice concerning symptoms (like excessive pain or any signs of infection such as fever or increasing redness), think about seeking urgent care for further evaluation.
Reassurance
It’s understandable to feel anxious about the severity of the bruising, especially given your medical history. Trust your instincts and monitor your symptoms closely; if anything feels off, don’t hesitate to seek help. You’re doing the right thing by being attentive to your body, and being proactive is key. Keep me updated if you have any further questions or concerns!
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