IV versus picc line

FormerMember over 3 years ago

2 replies
113 subscribers
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Good morning everyone

I am new here and hope you may spare me a minute to give me some advice if you can.

I can see picc lines have already been mentioned today but I don't know if it's for me or not? I was diagnosed with stage 3C colon cancer in June and had a large tumor removed. It had spread to lymph glands and I started my first cycle of chemotherapy last Thursday.

I had the IV drip on my hand and apart from all the usual side effects that I am coping with so far, my hand and forearm are really painful still. I am using paracetamol and a hot water bottle to try and relieve it.

So after my waffle, my question is.... Will the pain subside- I am only on day 5 or should I consider a picc line for future infusions?

Thank you for reading

Kareno62 over 3 years ago

Hi and a warm welcome to the board. Hopefully you’ve seen my reply on the ‘picc line’ post? My first IV was uncomfortable but wore off after the first few days but the 2nd was worse and I had to wear a pop sock with the toes cut off as I couldn’t stand clothes touching my arm for several days after. The removing of the sticky tape had me in tears so the picc line was a huge relief. There was a 3 week waiting list to get the line fitted so they booked me in but told me I could change my mind if I wanted. If it’s the same at your hospital then you could get your name down then see how you feel after your next infusion?

Personally I would get the picc line - the side effects can be cumulative and are more likely to get worse rather than better. If there’s anything in particular that you have reservations about then feel free to ask

Take care

Karen x

Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

FormerMember over 3 years ago in reply to Kareno62

Thank you Kareno62

I will give them a call tomorrow and see if I can discuss the possibility of a picc line. They did say I could choose to go down that route but I underestimated how uncomfortable the IV after effects would be.

Thank you so much for your response.

Kindest wishes

Nicky x