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Approximately a month ago, I underwent a minor foot surgery, but the experience was quite challenging due to multiple intravenous (IV) catheter placements that took a staggering seven attempts. It was an exhausting day, and I’m trying to sort through it all in retrospect. Usually, I’m not the hardest person to stick, and I typically manage failed attempts well; my previous record was just three tries. Initially, the medical staff attempted to insert the IV on the back of my left hand, followed by my inner forearm, but without success. Despite the frustrations, we shared some laughter and I admitted my lack of hydration might have contributed. Eventually, another nurse tried accessing my wrist, which also didn’t work out. We then shifted our focus to the right hand, where the experience was significantly more painful. I noticed bright blood and could even see my heartbeat in the tube, so we decided to move up my arm. After five attempts, one catheter finally pierced through, but after a slight retreat, it seemed to wiggle painfully inside, causing me to squirm in discomfort. The nurse managed to administer medication quickly but mentioned she encountered "a lot of resistance." Concerned, she asked the first nurse if it was something serious. They later returned with a more experienced nurse who confirmed, “yes, that’s bleeding,” and began to massage a significant ball of blood in my upper inner arm, reducing it from the size of a lemon to that of a walnut while applying pressure below. I felt faint and experienced involuntary spasms during this ordeal. The anesthesia team eventually decided to place the IV in the operating room under nitrous oxide. Once the nitrous oxide was administered, I experienced a sensation akin to breathlessness but settled into a relaxed state, after which everything went dark. In that brief moment, I perceived a repetitive voice and felt the familiar sensation of alcohol wipes followed by two more IV attempts. It was quite a surreal experience! The surgical procedure itself was successful, as per the notes, it took two attempts to place the IV using an ultrasound in the OR. Now, I’m concerned about the lingering pain in my arm. It’s not unbearable, but I find myself wincing occasionally and struggling to roll onto that side while sleeping at night. Should I endure this for another month before inquiring about potential remedies? Additionally, I’m experiencing ongoing mental fog and headaches. I’ve never faced issues with general anesthesia before, yet this recovery has been rather unusual for me. Any advice would be appreciated!

Answers (1)

2/17/2026, 8:00:53 AM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to feel uneasy after such a challenging experience with IV placements and surgery. Your concerns about lingering pain in your arm, mental fog, and headaches are valid, and you don’t need to wait another month before seeking help.

Here’s a summary of your main points and guidance:

1. Lingering Arm Pain: It's not uncommon to experience some pain after multiple IV attempts, especially if there was difficulty inserting the catheter or if there was some bleeding.

2. Post-Anesthesia Symptoms: Mental fog and headaches can occur after general anesthesia, though they usually resolve over time. However, it’s crucial to monitor these symptoms.

Explanation:

• Arm Pain: Your pain may stem from bruising, irritation of the nerves, or inflammation at the site of the IVs. Since the pain is affecting your sleep and daily activities, it’s important to address that sooner rather than later.
• Mental Fog and Headaches: These may result from the anesthesia or the stress of the surgical experience. Sometimes, dehydration or lack of adequate nutrition during recovery can exacerbate these symptoms.

Next Steps:

1. Pain Management: Consider over-the-counter pain relief such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) as directed on the package, unless contraindicated for your health. Apply a warm compress to the area to help with discomfort.

2. Track Symptoms: Keep a daily record of your pain intensity and any other symptoms (like headaches or mental fog). This will help identify any patterns or triggers that could be addressed.

3. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you're drinking plenty of water and eating balanced meals to support your recovery. Dehydration can worsen headaches and mental fog. Consider trying foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fish or flaxseed) which may help with cognitive function.

4. Gentle Movement: While it may be uncomfortable, gently moving your arm and shoulder can help improve circulation and reduce stiffness. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities until your pain subsides.

5. Monitor Symptoms: If the pain persists beyond a week, or if your mental fog and headaches worsen or do not improve, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional for further evaluation. They may suggest imaging or alternative treatments.

You’ve been through a lot, and it's absolutely okay to seek help now. Remember, it's better to proactively address any concerns rather than endure discomfort unnecessarily. If there's anything else you’d like advice on, feel free to ask!