I had a PICC line fitted on Monday with no issues. However since then it's been weeping slowly, with blood gradually collecting under and around where it enters my arm. It's also uncomfortable all the time and pretty painful when I use my arm, especially so when I lift it above my head. It also feels like it's tugging in my armpit.
I had it flushed and redressed yesterday (Wednesday) and after listing the above issues I had a test to confirm that it wasn't clotting, and an x-ray also confirmed that the line was in the right place.
I'm doing my head in now as it's still painful and bleeding after it's been confirmed there's nothing wrong with its position!
Has anyone else had a similar experience with a PICC? Am I right to say that it's shouldn't be painful, at least after the first 1-2 days? I'm starting to think of asking them to remove it now and just have chemo via my forearm in the normal blood-test way!
Hi and welcome to the community although sorry to hear of the problems with your PICC line. I had a line in for several months with no problems. What you describe is not normal. Without wanting to concern you, if it was me, I would phone NHS 111 for advice. They will give you the correct advice as what to do. It is not an emergency number, but an advice line. Please give them a ring and let us know. Best wishes.
