Chemo IV Causing Spreading Redness on Arm: Should I Be Worried?

Sounds like phlebitis (inflamed veins) can occur with blood draws- (phlebotomy) Ask your DR. PA. or CRNP if that's your diagnosis. Then you can get the answers to your questions. You will at very least, be able to <rule it out> if this isn't the case. Hope this issue resolves & you recover quickly. ♡

Why don’t they put a port?

Ask for a port placement for chemo and lab draws

I'm also very curious as to why you don't have a port.

My port became infected and I was allergic to the components. It was removed

Obvious good reason for not having a port. Hope your arm is better.

I don’t have a port and no problems yet. Now only in Herceptin with 4 to go. Hope this clears up for you and doesn’t recur. My daughter at 40 also has breast cancer. She has a port and had a clot with her 2nd treatment. Now all chemo paused until they have a new plan.

Oh no ! Well I hope they resolve that . I had one nurse say that sometimes they forget to flush the ports with heparin to prevent clotting so make sure they always do !

I had the same problem after my first IV (before I was able to get my port). It was red and sore for a few months afterwards and when it finally got better, surprisingly, it recurred again- being hot and painful at the site. My oncologist sympathized but said it happens fairly often as those drugs are strong and the veins don’t always like it. He even told me he has it happen to him. He said not to touch it. It has now been a few months since I have had an issue. I love my port. I wonder if they make them with other materials that you may not be allergic to???

It's completely understandable to feel concerned when seeing symptoms that seem to be progressing, especially during cancer treatment. While your medical team has provided treatment for this reaction, advocating for yourself by asking questions about the spreading nature is important. Consider reaching out to your oncology team again to discuss how the redness is continuing to move up your arm despite treatment, as they may want to reassess or adjust your care plan. Many others in this community have likely experienced IV-related reactions and may have helpful insights to share about their experiences.