What to do if the vein becomes hardened after intravenous infusion

Aug 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Feng

Introduction

Bacterial contamination or drug irritation during intravenous infusion may cause phlebitis, with congestion and edema of the vessel wall, followed by progressive hardening, accompanied by increased local skin temperature, pain, and cord-like induration. Infusion through the affected vessel should be discontinued, and the affected limb should be elevated to promote venous return. Diosmin tablets may be taken under a physician's guidance, along with intravenous administration of sodium aescinate for injection, in order to reduce the inflammatory response.

Hardening of the blood vessels used for intravenous (IV) infusion may be related to prolonged infusion duration, frequent punctures, medication-induced vascular irritation, phlebitis, or thrombophlebitis. This condition can generally be improved through local heat application, adjusting the infusion method, or pharmacological interventions. Seek timely medical attention if abnormalities occur. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Prolonged Infusion Duration: Continuous IV infusion over extended periods can cause gradual loss of elasticity in the vessel walls due to persistent irritation from the infused fluids, leading to hardening. To prevent this, change the infusion site periodically during IV therapy to avoid prolonged irritation of the same vessel. After infusion, appropriately move the limb to promote blood circulation.

2. Frequent Punctures: Repeated puncturing of the same vascular area can damage the vessel wall, and fibrosis may develop during the healing process, resulting in vascular hardening. Multiple punctures at the same site should be avoided as much as possible. Alternate between different infusion sites, and provide proper local care after puncture to minimize injury.

3. Medication-induced Vascular Irritation: Infusion of high-concentration or highly irritating medications can damage vascular endothelial cells, causing vasoconstriction, thickening of the vessel wall, and subsequent hardening. Pain and redness at the puncture site might also occur. Notify healthcare providers promptly to adjust the infusion rate or consider changing the medication.

4. Phlebitis: Bacterial contamination or drug-induced inflammation during IV infusion can lead to phlebitis, causing congestion, edema, and eventual hardening of the vessel wall, often accompanied by increased local skin temperature, pain, and cord-like indurations. Infusion through the affected vessel should be stopped immediately, and the affected limb should be elevated to promote venous return. Under medical guidance, Diosmin tablets may be taken orally, and Sodium Aescinate for injection administered intravenously to reduce the inflammatory response.

5. Thrombophlebitis: Formation of a blood clot within the vessel can obstruct the lumen, leading to vascular hardening. A cord-like hard mass may be palpable locally, accompanied by significant pain, and the skin may show dark red patches. Treatment should follow medical advice, including oral administration of Warfarin Sodium Tablets, subcutaneous injection of Low Molecular Weight Heparin Calcium Injection, and topical application of Mucopolysaccharide Polysulfate Cream.

In daily life, it is important to protect the puncture site after IV infusion and avoid pressing or rubbing it. Local heat application may be appropriately applied.

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Is it dangerous to have blood return during intravenous infusion?

In general, whether blood reflux during intravenous infusion is dangerous depends on the specific circumstances and subsequent management. If any discomfort or abnormality occurs, it is recommended to inform healthcare providers promptly. During infusion, patients should keep the puncture site stable and avoid unnecessary movement that may displace the needle. If blood reflux is observed, do not adjust the infusion set or remove the needle by yourself; instead, call the nurse immediately for proper handling.

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How low should CRP be to stop intravenous infusion?

For inflammation caused by bacterial infection, if CRP levels continuously decrease from an initially elevated level to within the normal range, and symptoms such as fever and pain subside, this indicates the infection has been effectively controlled. At this point, intravenous infusion is no longer necessary, and treatment may be switched to oral medication as directed by a physician to consolidate therapeutic effects. This situation is commonly seen in mild infections such as common respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections.

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What to do if the vein becomes hardened after receiving an intravenous injection

In general, the hardening of a vein after receiving an intravenous infusion may be caused by repeated puncture irritation, excessively fast infusion rate, medication irritation to the vein, phlebitis, thrombosis, or other similar reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and under a doctor's guidance, improve the condition through local care, medication, and other treatments. Daily care should include keeping the puncture site clean and dry, and avoiding contact with water to prevent infection.