Got picc put in this morning. They said it wouldn't hurt. Either they lied or I should be worried. Because IT DOES HURT.
Anyone else have a REALLY sore arm after insertion???
Posted by sammy (Member # 13952) on :
It does hurt afterwards.
Your veins are probably spasming and your muscles are probably cramping. This is usually what happens.
Apply a warm compress over the insertion site for 20min on. You can repeat this allowing at least 20 min no heat.
You should use your arm but baby it for the next couple days. This will allow it to heal and prevent bleeding at the site.
When you arm is better you will be able to do normal activities but you should limit lifting with that arm to under 5lbs and limit activities with repetitive motions. If you do these things you will probably experience pain in the arm and chest, I did.
When you sleep, you may want to roll up an old tee shirt or soft towel to put between your arm and ribs. It hurt to rest my arm on my ribs. This helped keep me from rolling and sleeping on my arm. If you accidentally sleep on your arm you will wake in excruciating pain.
You can also take some ibuprofen to reduce inflammation if you are not already on an anti-inflammatory pain med.
Take care. You will be OK.
Posted by WendyK (Member # 18918) on :
I ached for several days after I got mine put in. Now however, I often forget its there (got mine in April)! Sammy is right - just take it easy for a while - your arm and chest will let you know when you're doing too much.