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Regular Blood Donor, Sharp Tingles And Quarter Size Lump On Arm. Normal?
Question: Hi I am a 29 yo female regular blood donor and I donated at the local red cross about 6 hours ago. She tried using my left arm but was unable to get anything. While she was trying, my arm and hand started to have sharp tingles and a lot of pain and it hasn't stopped since. Now I have a quarter size lump at the site, should I be concerned?
Hello XXXXXXX
Thanks for posting your query.
This lump that has formed after trying intravenous access for blood donation is due to superficial phlebitis or hematoma formation. Phlebitis means inflammation of a vein which is quite commonly after the insertion of intravenous catheters. Hematoma is a collection of blood caused by internal bleeding and happens when the catheter punctures through the vein like during unsuccessful intravenous insertion of canula during blood donation.
The tingly sensation that you had along with the pain is due to trauma to the superficial nerves causing nerve irritation. No treatment is required for superficial nerve irritation and it will heal with time.
For the hematoma and phlebitis, apply warm compresses on the area and take some over the counter anti-inflammatory pain killer like Ibuprofen. If this does not help within 48 hours then you may need an examination by doctor.
Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries.
Wishing you good health.
Thanks for posting your query.
This lump that has formed after trying intravenous access for blood donation is due to superficial phlebitis or hematoma formation. Phlebitis means inflammation of a vein which is quite commonly after the insertion of intravenous catheters. Hematoma is a collection of blood caused by internal bleeding and happens when the catheter punctures through the vein like during unsuccessful intravenous insertion of canula during blood donation.
The tingly sensation that you had along with the pain is due to trauma to the superficial nerves causing nerve irritation. No treatment is required for superficial nerve irritation and it will heal with time.
For the hematoma and phlebitis, apply warm compresses on the area and take some over the counter anti-inflammatory pain killer like Ibuprofen. If this does not help within 48 hours then you may need an examination by doctor.
Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries.
Wishing you good health.
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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