Lump in hand after iv. Superficial Thrombophlebitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

18.08.202309.07.2023 by alexxlab

How does superficial thrombophlebitis develop. What are the common symptoms of this condition. Can superficial thrombophlebitis be effectively treated. What are the risk factors associated with superficial thrombophlebitis. How is superficial thrombophlebitis diagnosed. What are the recommended treatment options for superficial thrombophlebitis. Is superficial thrombophlebitis a serious medical condition.

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Understanding Superficial Thrombophlebitis: An Overview

Superficial thrombophlebitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of a vein just below the skin’s surface, resulting from a blood clot. This condition often occurs following the use of an intravenous (IV) line or after trauma to the vein. While it can be uncomfortable, superficial thrombophlebitis is generally considered a benign and short-term condition.

The primary symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis include:

Pain and tenderness along the affected vein
Hardening of the vein
A cord-like feeling beneath the skin
Redness and warmth in the affected area

Typically, these symptoms subside within 1 to 2 weeks, although the hardness of the vein may persist for a longer period.

Causes and Risk Factors of Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Superficial thrombophlebitis can develop due to various factors. The most common causes include:

Recent injury to the vein
Administration of medications through intravenous lines
Underlying conditions that increase blood clotting tendency

Several risk factors can increase an individual’s likelihood of developing superficial thrombophlebitis:

Cancer or liver disease
Deep vein thrombosis
Inherited blood clotting disorders
Infections
Pregnancy
Prolonged periods of inactivity or sitting
Use of birth control pills
Presence of varicose veins

Does a history of blood clots increase the risk of superficial thrombophlebitis? Yes, individuals with a history of blood clots or clotting disorders are at a higher risk of developing superficial thrombophlebitis, even without an apparent triggering event.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Identifying the symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment. The most common signs include:

Skin redness and inflammation along a vein just below the skin
Tenderness or pain in the affected area
Warmth radiating from the site
Limb pain
Hardening of the vein

Can superficial thrombophlebitis cause fever or systemic symptoms? While superficial thrombophlebitis primarily affects the local area, in some cases, it may be accompanied by mild fever or general discomfort. However, severe systemic symptoms are uncommon and may indicate a more serious condition.

Diagnostic Approaches for Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Diagnosing superficial thrombophlebitis typically involves a combination of clinical examination and diagnostic tests. Healthcare providers often rely on the following methods:

Physical examination: Assessing the appearance of the affected area
Monitoring vital signs: Regular checks of pulse, blood pressure, temperature, and skin condition
Ultrasound imaging: Confirming the diagnosis and assessing blood flow
Cultures: If infection is suspected, skin or blood cultures may be performed

Is a biopsy necessary for diagnosing superficial thrombophlebitis? In most cases, a biopsy is not required to diagnose superficial thrombophlebitis. The condition can usually be identified through physical examination and non-invasive imaging techniques like ultrasound.

Treatment Options and Management Strategies

The treatment of superficial thrombophlebitis aims to reduce discomfort, manage inflammation, and prevent complications. Common treatment approaches include:

Wearing support stockings for leg involvement
Elevating the affected limb above heart level
Applying warm compresses to the area
Removing catheters or IV lines if they are the cause
Prescribing NSAIDs for pain and swelling relief
Administering anticoagulants if deeper vein clots are present
Prescribing antibiotics in cases of infection

In some cases, more invasive treatments may be necessary:

Surgical removal (phlebectomy) of the affected vein
Vein stripping
Sclerotherapy for large varicose veins or high-risk individuals

How long does it take for superficial thrombophlebitis to resolve with treatment? With appropriate treatment, symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis often improve within 1 to 2 weeks. However, the hardness of the vein may persist for a longer period.

Prognosis and Long-Term Outlook

Superficial thrombophlebitis is generally considered a benign condition with a favorable prognosis. Most cases resolve without significant complications, and symptoms typically subside within 1 to 2 weeks of treatment initiation. However, it’s important to note that the hardening of the affected vein may persist for an extended period.

Are there any long-term complications associated with superficial thrombophlebitis? While rare, potential long-term complications may include:

Recurrence of thrombophlebitis
Development of chronic venous insufficiency
Skin discoloration or scarring in the affected area

Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider can help monitor recovery and address any potential complications.

Prevention Strategies for Superficial Thrombophlebitis

While it may not always be possible to prevent superficial thrombophlebitis, several measures can help reduce the risk:

Maintain an active lifestyle and avoid prolonged periods of immobility
Stay hydrated, especially during long journeys
Wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent constriction of blood flow
Use compression stockings if recommended by a healthcare provider
Manage underlying conditions that increase clotting risk
Follow proper technique when administering IV medications

Can regular exercise help prevent superficial thrombophlebitis? Yes, regular physical activity promotes healthy blood circulation and can reduce the risk of blood clot formation, potentially lowering the likelihood of developing superficial thrombophlebitis.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While superficial thrombophlebitis is often a benign condition, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention:

Severe pain or swelling in the affected area
Spreading redness or warmth
Development of fever or chills
Difficulty moving the affected limb
Appearance of new symptoms or worsening of existing ones

Should you be concerned if superficial thrombophlebitis doesn’t improve after two weeks? If symptoms persist or worsen beyond the typical 1-2 week recovery period, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider. This could indicate a more serious underlying condition or the need for additional treatment.

Differential Diagnosis: Distinguishing Superficial Thrombophlebitis from Other Conditions

Accurate diagnosis of superficial thrombophlebitis is crucial, as its symptoms can sometimes mimic other vascular or skin conditions. Healthcare providers must consider several differential diagnoses, including:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Cellulitis
Lymphangitis
Erythema nodosum
Vasculitis

How can deep vein thrombosis be distinguished from superficial thrombophlebitis? Deep vein thrombosis typically causes more severe symptoms, including significant swelling of the entire limb, and may not be visible or palpable from the skin’s surface. Diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound, is often necessary to differentiate between the two conditions.

Special Considerations for High-Risk Populations

Certain groups of individuals may require special attention and management when diagnosed with superficial thrombophlebitis:

Pregnant women
Individuals with a history of deep vein thrombosis
Patients with known clotting disorders
People undergoing cancer treatment
Individuals with autoimmune diseases

These high-risk populations may benefit from more aggressive treatment approaches and closer monitoring to prevent potential complications.

Are there specific precautions for managing superficial thrombophlebitis in pregnant women? Pregnant women with superficial thrombophlebitis require careful management due to the increased risk of clotting during pregnancy. Treatment typically involves non-pharmacological methods and, in some cases, the use of low-molecular-weight heparin under close medical supervision.

Emerging Research and Future Directions

Ongoing research in the field of vascular medicine continues to shed light on superficial thrombophlebitis and its management. Some areas of current interest include:

Development of novel anticoagulants with improved safety profiles
Investigation of genetic factors contributing to thrombophlebitis susceptibility
Exploration of minimally invasive treatment techniques
Studies on long-term outcomes and recurrence rates

As our understanding of superficial thrombophlebitis evolves, treatment protocols may be refined to provide more targeted and effective care for affected individuals.

How might advances in personalized medicine impact the treatment of superficial thrombophlebitis? Personalized medicine approaches could lead to more tailored treatment plans based on individual risk factors, genetic predisposition, and specific characteristics of the thrombophlebitis. This could result in more effective treatments with fewer side effects.

Patient Education and Self-Care Strategies

Empowering patients with knowledge about superficial thrombophlebitis can significantly contribute to successful management and prevention of recurrence. Key aspects of patient education include:

Understanding the signs and symptoms of thrombophlebitis
Recognizing when to seek medical attention
Proper techniques for applying warm compresses
Importance of compliance with prescribed medications
Lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors

Additionally, patients should be educated on self-care strategies that can complement medical treatment:

Gentle exercises to promote circulation
Proper skincare to prevent infection in the affected area
Stress management techniques to support overall vascular health
Dietary considerations to maintain healthy blood flow

Can dietary changes help in managing or preventing superficial thrombophlebitis? While diet alone cannot prevent or cure superficial thrombophlebitis, maintaining a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods and staying well-hydrated can support overall vascular health. Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids and flavonoid-rich foods may have beneficial effects on vein health.

The Role of Imaging in Superficial Thrombophlebitis Management

Imaging techniques play a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of superficial thrombophlebitis. The most commonly used imaging modalities include:

Ultrasound: Provides real-time visualization of blood flow and vein structure
Doppler ultrasound: Assesses blood flow direction and velocity
Venography: Used in complex cases or when other imaging methods are inconclusive
MRI: Offers detailed images of soft tissues and blood vessels

These imaging techniques not only aid in diagnosis but also help monitor treatment progress and detect potential complications.

How frequently should imaging be performed in patients with superficial thrombophlebitis? The frequency of imaging depends on the severity of the condition and individual risk factors. Initially, imaging may be performed at diagnosis and then repeated as needed based on clinical progression. In uncomplicated cases, repeat imaging may not be necessary if symptoms improve with treatment.

Psychological Impact and Quality of Life Considerations

While superficial thrombophlebitis is primarily a physical condition, it can have psychological and quality of life implications for affected individuals. Some aspects to consider include:

Anxiety related to the appearance of affected veins
Concerns about recurrence or complications
Impact on daily activities and lifestyle
Body image issues, particularly with visible veins

Healthcare providers should address these concerns and offer appropriate support or referrals to mental health professionals if needed.

How can healthcare providers address the psychological aspects of superficial thrombophlebitis? Providers can offer reassurance about the generally benign nature of the condition, provide clear information about treatment and prognosis, and discuss strategies for managing visible symptoms. In some cases, referral to a support group or counselor may be beneficial for patients struggling with the emotional impact of the condition.

Occupational Considerations and Workplace Adaptations

For individuals diagnosed with superficial thrombophlebitis, certain occupational factors may need to be addressed to promote recovery and prevent recurrence:

Ergonomic adjustments for jobs requiring prolonged sitting or standing
Implementation of regular movement breaks
Use of compression stockings during work hours
Modification of tasks that may exacerbate symptoms
Education of coworkers and supervisors about the condition

Employers and occupational health professionals can play a key role in facilitating these adaptations and ensuring a supportive work environment.

Are there specific occupations that increase the risk of developing superficial thrombophlebitis? Occupations that involve prolonged periods of sitting or standing, such as office workers, drivers, or retail employees, may have an increased risk of developing superficial thrombophlebitis. However, with proper precautions and workplace adaptations, this risk can be mitigated.

Superficial thrombophlebitis Information | Mount Sinai

Thrombophlebitis – superficial

Thrombophlebitis is a swollen or inflamed vein due to a blood clot. Superficial refers to veins just below the skin’s surface.

Superficial thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of a vein just below the surface of the skin, which results from a blood clot. This condition may occur after recently using an IV line, or after trauma to the vein. Some symptoms can include pain and tenderness along the vein and hardening and feeling cord-like. Superficial thrombophlebitis is usually a benign and short-term condition. Symptoms generally subside in 1 to 2 weeks, but hardness of the vein may remain for much longer.

Shown here is erythema following the vascular pattern on a lower extremity. The superficial veins have become inflamed and dilated, causing the discoloration.

Causes

This condition may occur after injury to the vein. It may also occur after having medicines given into your veins. If you have a high risk for blood clots, you may develop them for no apparent reason.

Risks for thrombophlebitis include:

Cancer or liver disease
Deep vein thrombosis
Disorders that involve increased blood clotting (may be inherited)
Infection
Pregnancy
Sitting or staying still for a prolonged period
Use of birth control pills
Swollen, twisted, and enlarged veins (varicose veins)

Symptoms

Symptoms may include any of the following:

Skin redness, inflammation, tenderness, or pain along a vein just below the skin
Warmth of the area
Limb pain
Hardening of the vein

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider will diagnose this condition based mainly on the appearance of the affected area. Frequent checks of the pulse, blood pressure, temperature, skin condition, and blood flow may be needed.

Ultrasound of the blood vessels helps confirm the condition.

If there are signs of an infection, skin or blood cultures may be done.

Treatment

To reduce discomfort and swelling, your provider may recommend that you:

Wear support stockings, if your leg is affected.
Keep the affected leg or arm raised above heart level.
Apply a warm compress to the area.

If you have a catheter or IV line, it will likely be removed if it is the cause of the thrombophlebitis.

Medicines called NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may be prescribed to reduce pain and swelling.

If clots in the deeper veins are also present, your provider may prescribe medicines to thin your blood. These medicines are called anticoagulants. Antibiotics are prescribed if you have an infection.

Surgical removal (phlebectomy), stripping, or sclerotherapy of the affected vein may be needed. These treat large varicose veins or to prevent thrombophlebitis in high-risk people.

Outlook (Prognosis)

This is usually a short-term condition that does not cause complications. Symptoms often go away in 1 to 2 weeks. Hardness of the vein may remain for much longer.

Possible Complications

Complications are rare. Possible problems may include the following:

Infections (cellulitis)
Deep vein thrombosis

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider for an appointment if you develop symptoms of this condition.

Also contact your provider if you already have the condition and your symptoms worsen or do not get better with treatment.

Prevention

In the hospital, swollen or inflamed veins can be prevented by:

The nurse regularly changing the location of your IV line and removing it if swelling, redness, or pain develop
Walking and staying active as soon as possible after surgery or during a long-term illness

When possible, avoid keeping your legs and arms still for long periods. Move your legs often or take a stroll during long plane trips or car trips. Try to avoid sitting or lying down for long periods without getting up and moving about.

Cardella JA, Amankwah KS. Venous thromboembolism: prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. In: Cameron AM, Cameron JL, eds. Current Surgical Therapy. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:1072-1082.

Wasan S. Superficial thrombophlebitis and its management. In: Sidawy AN, Perler BA, eds. Rutherford’s Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 150.

Last reviewed on: 5/10/2022

Reviewed by: Deepak Sudheendra, MD, MHCI, RPVI, FSIR, Founder and CEO, 360 Vascular Institute, with an expertise in Vascular Interventional Radiology & Surgical Critical Care, Columbus, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Pain, Inflammation and a Nodule After IV Medication

Vol. 13 •Issue 7 • Page 21
Pain, Inflammation and a Nodule After IV Medication

by Andrew Craig, NP

Elizabeth, a 20-year-old college student, presented to the student health center where I work in January 2005. She reported having a painful vein on her right forearm since an intravenous medication injection a month prior. She had gone home over the Christmas break, become ill with gastroenteritis and sought medical treatment in the emergency department of a large teaching hospital near her home.

She received intravenous promethazine (Phenergan) and recalled that it burned considerably as it was administered. Elizabeth said that when she mentioned this to the staff member giving her the medication, the person told her she was “fine” and that she should apply warm compresses to the area if her discomfort persisted.

By the time she presented to the student health center, Elizabeth had been following this regimen for a month without relief and still had a tender, hard area on the vein above her right wrist. Her pain was constant and moderate in severity, made worse by contact and only slightly better with the warm compresses. She said she recently noticed a “knot” on her right arm just below her elbow.

Elizabeth had no fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain or cough. She reported no injury to the area. Her past medical history was unremarkable; she took no medications other than oral contraceptives and had no drug allergies. She was a nonsmoker.

Exam and Diagnostic Tests

On exam, Elizabeth was alert, afebrile and in no distress. On the dorsal aspect of her distal right forearm were two swollen, tender, inflamed areas along the track of her basilic vein. One area was approximately 4 cm long and just proximal to her right wrist. The other was approximately 1 cm long and just proximal to the first inflamed segment. I palpated a 0.5-cm, somewhat firm nodule on the dorsal proximal right forearm about 2 cm distal to the medial condyle. This appeared similar to the epitrochlear node but was not in the classic position for it.

I diagnosed Elizabeth with superficial phlebitis. Since she reported no history of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, I prescribed oral naproxen sodium (Naprosyn) 500 mg every 12 hours with food. I also instructed her to take one 81-mg enteric-coated aspirin daily for its antiplatelet properties and wrote a referral for venous Doppler study to rule out thrombophlebitis. I instructed her to continue the warm compresses 4 to 6 times daily and to elevate her arm as much as possible. I further instructed her to report to the emergency department should she develop any shortness of breath, chest pain or hemoptysis. She was discharged home with further follow-up to be determined once the Doppler study results were in.

Elizabeth had her Doppler study a week later, and the results indicated a localized venous thrombosis in the right basilic vein just distal to the elbow. The radiologist noted that a superficial vein on the dorsum of the right hand demonstrated marked wall thickening but had good flow and compressibility, probably due to chronic thrombophlebitis. Based on these results, I referred Elizabeth to a local surgeon who evaluated her and instructed her to return for local excision in 2 months if the clot did not resolve.

Epidemiology

Superficial thrombophlebitis occurs frequently, yet it does not get much attention in the literature.¹ This lack of attention is probably because the condition is often relatively mild and self-limiting. The list of risk factors is long (Table 1).

In contrast to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which may result from hereditary blood disorders or chronic illness, superficial thrombophlebitis is typically the result of trauma (e.g., IV insertion and infusion of irritating medicines) or infection.^1,2 This condition is common, occurs most frequently in young to middle-aged adults, and is slightly more frequent in women. ¹

Superficial thrombophlebitis does not typically cause significant morbidity or mortality unless the condition extends to the deep venous system. When this occurs, it can be the source of a pulmonary embolus (PE). Superficial thrombophlebitis is an acute inflammatory condition. Unlike DVT (which is typically not associated with inflammation), superficial thrombi adhere firmly to the inside of vessel walls and generally do not form emboli.^3,4

Patients with thrombophlebitis frequently have alterations in one or more components of Virchow’s Triad: damage to the intimal wall of the vessel, venous stasis and altered coagulation.⁴ In this case, Elizabeth probably developed intimal damage as a result of the peripheral intravenous catheter. She had also received intravenous promethazine, and this nausea medication can induce the formation of antiphospholipid antibodies, another risk factor for thrombophlebitis.⁵

Differential Diagnosis

Signs and symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis include tenderness, warmth and heat along the course of the affected vein, along with swelling in the affected extremity. ^1,3,5 The vein may have a palpable cord or knot. Table 2 lists differential diagnoses.

Examination should include the affected area, the regional lymph nodes and a cardiovascular exam if you suspect PE. Measurement of extremity circumference will objectively quantify any limb swelling. Measure at the same point on both extremities. I typically choose a bony landmark and measure from that landmark to the area of greatest circumference. I make sure that I measure from that same point on the other extremity. For example: “Arm circumference was 20 cm on the left and 18 cm on the right, measured 10 cm distal to the lateral condyles.”

Diagnostic tests distinguish thrombophlebitis from phlebitis and rule out thrombi of the deep venous system. Additional tests may be needed to evaluate for pulmonary embolism if DVT is present or you suspect PE. Several tests are available:²

Compression ultrasonography. This is the noninvasive test of choice; it uses sound waves to generate pictures inside an extremity and can identify superficial and deep thrombi. The patient in this case had this test.

Contrast venography. Although venogram is the gold standard, this is no longer the initial study of choice because of its invasive nature. The test involves threading a catheter into the affected vein and injecting contrast dye, which enables veins (and clots) to show up on x-ray.

Magnetic resonance imaging. Although not as widely used as venography and ultrasound, this may be useful when the patient cannot tolerate intravenous dye (e.g., dye allergy, pregnancy, renal failure).

While blood tests for coagulation disorders and blood dyscrasias are indicated in cases of DVT, my review of the literature did not find a similar recommendation for cases of uncomplicated superficial thrombophlebitis.

When PE is a concern, relevant diagnostic tests include ventilation or perfusion lung scanning, spiral CT of the chest and serum d-dimer level.

Treatment

Most cases of superficial thrombophlebitis are self-limiting and respond to conservative measures. Warm compresses and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are mainstays of therapy.

While aspirin may be of benefit as an NSAID, its use as an antiplatelet agent is of little benefit because superficial thrombophlebitis is due to inflammation and fibrin clot, not platelet aggregation.¹

Anticoagulants (e.g., heparin), while useful in the management of DVT, are not typically used in superficial cases of thrombophlebitis. Removal of an offending intravenous catheter and initiation of antibiotics are indicated in cases of thrombophlebitis caused by infection. Culture the catheter tip to identify the specific bacteria involved.

Follow-Up and Referral

Symptoms that do not resolve after 4 weeks require follow-up. In such cases, refer the patient to a general or vascular surgeon for excision of the clot under local anesthesia. Patients also should return if their symptoms worsen or if additional thrombi form, and they should seek emergency care for any signs or symptoms of pulmonary embolus (chest pain, shortness of breath, tachypnea, cough or hemoptysis).

References

1. Johnson G Jr. Superficial thrombophlebitis. eMedicine 2005. Available at: http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic3201.htm.

2. Lip GY, Pineo GF, Bauer KA. Patient information: venous thrombosis. UpToDate 2005. Available with subscription at: http://www.utdol.com.

3. Beers MH (ed.) Superficial thrombophlebitis. In The Merck Manual of Medical Information Online (2^nd ed.) 2004. Available at: http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec03/ch036/ch036c.html.

4. McMorran J, Crowther DC, McMorran S, et al. Superficial vein thrombosis. GPnotebook 2005. Available at: http://www.gpnotebook.co.uk/simplepage.cfm?ID=275447823.

5. Bauer KA, Lip GY. Evaluation of the patient with established venous thrombosis. UpToDate 2005. Available with subscription at: http://www.utdol.com.

Andrew Craig, NP, is a family nurse practitioner at The University of North Carolina-Charlotte’s Student Health Center and an NP in the U. S. Naval Reserve. He is also a member of the ADVANCE for Nurse Practitioners editorial advisory board and is the journal’s technology consultant.

Table 1: Risk Factors for Thrombophlebitis^1,2,4

• Previous surgery

• Pregnancy

• Obesity

• Age older than 60 years

• Use of oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy or tamoxifen

• Immobilization, extended travel (“economy class syndrome”)

• Smoking

• Presence of an intravenous catheter

• Injection of caustic or irritating substances

• Previous thromboembolism

• Chronic medical conditions such as heart failure, renal disease or cancer

• Blood disorders such as polycythemia vera

• Elevated blood homocysteine; positive antiphospholipid antibodies

Table 2: Differential Diagnosis¹

• Cellulitis

• Suppurative thrombophlebitis, a serious condition associated with intravenous infection and septicemia, manifested by purulence in the affected vein

• Migratory thrombophlebitis, recurrent, progressive thrombi along the course of a vein, usually in the lower extremities, associated with carcinoma

How to remove bumps from injections

Likbez

Health

May 11, 2021

There are four signs that a seal is dangerous.

After any injection, small, sometimes painful lumps may occur where the needle entered the skin. And that’s okay.

Why injection bumps appear

This is an individual reaction. Perhaps this is how – with local swelling and irritation – your body personally reacted to a microtrauma from a needle, an injected drug, or both at the same time.

The risk of getting a painful bump increases if the injection technique is violated: for example, the needle is inserted at the wrong angle or does not hit the right place the first time.

What to do if a bump appears after an injection

As a rule, nothing needs to be done. In most cases, seals are unpleasant but harmless. And they pass pretty quickly on their own.

In a few hours or a maximum of a day or two after the injection, there will be no trace of the bump.

If the injection site is not only thickened, but also aches or itches, you can get rid of discomfort like this.

Apply a cold compress to the bump. It can be a cloth soaked in ice water, or an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth.
Try an over-the-counter pain reliever for pain relief. For example, based on ibuprofen.
If you want to relieve itching, use an over-the-counter antihistamine.

When to see a doctor urgently

In some cases, a lump at the injection site may be caused by an infection that got under the skin with an unsterile needle, or an allergy to the injected drug. Both of these conditions are potentially dangerous. And, if you’re not lucky, they can cost you your life.

Here are four signs, each of which tells you to immediately consult a therapist or even call an ambulance.

1. A high fever that you attribute to a recent injection

Fever (a temperature above 38.3°C) is not always dangerous: it may be one of the expected side effects of the medicine or vaccine you have been given. But sometimes it is the rise in temperature that manifests itself as allergies and infections.

Prescription drugs and antibiotics may be needed to stop the disease process. Which ones, the doctor will tell you – after he makes an accurate diagnosis.

2. Severe pain at the injection site that does not subside

The bump formed after the injection often hurts. However, normally, the pain gradually decreases and within a few hours or a maximum of a couple of days completely disappears. Situations are considered abnormal when:

Pain does not decrease with time. And even more so if it intensifies.
The pain seems to spread all over the body.
The bump looks inflamed and hurts not only at the surface of the skin, but also somewhere deep.
Pain accompanied by fever above 38.3 °C.

These signs do not necessarily indicate something dangerous. This may be an expected side effect of the drug you were injected with. But there is a risk that increased pain is associated with an infection that needs to be diagnosed and treated before it spreads throughout the body.

3. Thickening and swelling that does not go away after a couple of days

If the bump does not disappear, becomes denser, increases in size or changes color, this can also be a sign of infection.

Be especially careful if the lump feels soft, mushy, hot and sore. This may indicate a developing abscess – an accumulation of pus in a cavity under the skin.

Never try to pop the boil out. If it breaks under the skin, the infection can enter the bloodstream and lead to deadly blood poisoning.

If the bump is small and you’re not sure it’s an abscess, take a pen or marker and trace around the perimeter of the lump. And then watch. A nodule that does not decrease during the day, and even more so one that grows beyond the outlined boundaries, is a clear reason for an urgent consultation with a doctor.

4. Unusual symptoms not related to the injection site

Induration at the injection site may be caused by an allergy to the injected drug. In some cases, it spreads to the entire body. Doctors call this process an anaphylactic reaction. Sometimes it is deadly.

The first signs of anaphylaxis, as a rule, are similar to seasonal allergies: a runny nose appears, watery eyes, an itchy rash appears on some areas of the skin, similar to inflammation after a nettle burn.

However, additional symptoms may appear very quickly:

cough;
chest tightness;
shortness of breath;
irregular heartbeat;
swelling not related to the injection site, eg swelling of the hands, tongue, face.
dizziness.

If you notice unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. Perhaps anaphylaxis will not be confirmed. But if this is her, it is important to get qualified medical care in time.

This article was first published in July 2017. In May 2021, we updated the text.

FMBA therapist told how to quickly get rid of bumps after injections

Lifestyle

Injections are not the most pleasant procedure, especially if the doctor prescribes a multi-day course. Many are afraid of them since childhood – it hurts. In addition, after such treatment, bruises or bumps often remain on the body, which resolve for a long time.

August 21, 20218

Source:: pixabay.com

Bumps from injections are a pathological reaction of the body to the administration of a drug. Doctors call them “post-injection infiltrates.” According to the therapist Yulia Kochanova, such bumps are formed due to the accumulation of lymph and blood cells under the skin.

– The infiltrate is preceded by the traumatic effect of a penetrating needle, as well as several other common factors. For example, too fast administration of the drug, as a result of which the drug does not spread through the tissues. Also on the list of reasons is the oily structure of the drug, an allergy to the components of the drug, a small needle length that does not penetrate muscle tissue, or muscle tension during the injection, the specialist explains.

A recent study showed that more than 70% of Russians are afraid of injections. After a survey of residents of 21 cities, it turned out that the most shy people live in Moscow, Novosibirsk and Kazan. Petersburgers turned out to be bolder than many — the city took only 18th place in this rating.

It does not take long for the bumps to appear – they form within 1-2 hours after the injection. Vaccination is no exception.

– Any vaccine, like the COVID-19 vaccine, can cause swelling or a bump at the injection site. The cause of the infiltrate may be an adverse reaction – hypersensitivity to the components of the vaccine, as well as other common factors, – explains the doctor.