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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Painful Swelling At The Site Of IV Shot?

Hello. I just had an appendectomy on last Saturday and was released on Sunday. The ER nurse placed the IV in my left armpit while in the hospital. Tuesday my armpit began to hurt more and as of today I can t stretch or bend my arm without it hurting so bad. The area is swollen and kind of dark red and has a knot and feels like a long swollen vein. It really hurts to touch as well. Can you please tell me what this could be and do I need to go back to the hospital to have it checked before my 2wk follow up appointment with my surgeon? Thank you
Wed, 12 Feb 2020
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

The symptoms seem to be related to side effects of the injection. While swelling and minor bruising can happen after a shot, they usually get better within a day or so. If swelling and discoloration persist, it may be the sign of an infection. So, if the symptoms persist for more that two or three days you shoud go at your surgeon for further evaluation.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Dorina Gurabardhi, General & Family Physician
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What Causes Painful Swelling At The Site Of IV Shot?

Hello, The symptoms seem to be related to side effects of the injection. While swelling and minor bruising can happen after a shot, they usually get better within a day or so. If swelling and discoloration persist, it may be the sign of an infection. So, if the symptoms persist for more that two or three days you shoud go at your surgeon for further evaluation. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Dorina Gurabardhi, General & Family Physician