What Does A Brown Bruise On The Forearm Indicate?

Posted on Sat, 13 May 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 13 May 2017 Answered on

Fri, 2 Jun 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Last week I had blood gasses drawn for copd and the next day or two I felt like something bit me and all the way up my forearm is a brown bruise that keeps getting biggger and longer on the inside of my right forearm. It is sore and it runs along my vein or artery.

Answered by Dr. Shinas Hussain (57 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It could be phlebitis(inflammation of vein)

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for trusting Healthcaremagic!
I have gone through your query and I can understand your concerns.
As per your description, it seems that you are having a condition called "phlebitis " it is nothing but inflammation of your blood vessel. It is quite common after insertion of intravenous catheters. The condition is rarely serious and usually resolves with conservative management.
You can try the following as a first line management:-
(1)- Simple analgesics like ibuprofen or diclofenac for pain.
(2)- Apply warm compresses over the area for symptomatic relief.
(3)- If you suspect any local infection,consult a physician and antibiotic therapy may be needed.
(4)- Apply topical ointment like "thrombophobe" for symptomatic relief.

If symptoms persist despite all these, consult a physician and get evaluated.

Wishing you good health.
regards
Dr Shinas Hussain

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T