I got a PICC line last Wednesday and started Rocephin. Yesterday I noticed my picc arm was consistently colder than my other.
Now it gradually flashes from being hot to being icy.
I looked up possible PICC complications but, of course, it says nothing about this. I don't have a fever and although the area is still a little sore, it looks OK. (Not red or swollen)
Could it be nerve damage? I keep trying to ignore it but the sensations are quite uncomfortable.
posted
I've had several PICCs, and I think I experienced the same sensation you are describing with one or two of them.
The insertion of a PICC, even if it is done well with no complications, causes some trauma to that arm--I don't mean anything severe that is a cause for concern, just that your arm will need a little healing time.
As I said, I also had that cold feeling when I first got the PICC. I know it's an unpleasant feeling, but I found gently exercising that arm to increase circulation helped to warm the arm.
When the PICC is new, most people (myself included) have a tendency to not move that arm as much as they normally would. It's possibly sore, and you've got this contraption in your vein that you instinctively feel the need to protect.
After a couple of days, my arm felt better each time. I had each of my PICCs for many months--the last one was in for nearly 18 months! After a few days, I got used to it, and it became like an extension of myself that I gave little thought to during daily activities. The discomfort never returned.
Hopefully, you will have a similar positive experience. If the discomfort becomes worse or does not go away, call your doctor!
Posts: 962 | From Charleston | Registered: Jan 2002
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