Blockage, pain and swelling
A line can block, a clot can form in the vein, or the catheter can move; all of these are treated promptly.
01Short answer
02Simple explanation
Topic. blockage, pain and swelling.
Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.
Write down. Your questions.
Overview. The article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
03Scientific explanation
Clot: a catheter changes blood flow in the vein and raises clot risk.
Treatment: with low platelets, the team chooses clot treatment with special care.
04What happens in the body?
Blockage, pain and swelling
A blockage is often a small clot or deposit at the tip; a nurse may clear it with a special solution. Swelling of the arm or neck on the catheter side can mean a clot in the vein and is checked with ultrasound. Never force-flush a line yourself.
In more detail
Clot: a catheter changes blood flow in the vein and raises clot risk. Treatment: with low platelets, the team chooses clot treatment with special care.
The overview
This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
05Blockage, pain and swelling: the steps
Four steps.
06The problem
| Sign | What it may be | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Fluid will not run | Blockage | Tell your team |
| Swollen arm or neck | Clot in the vein | Contact your team today |
| Pain at the port | Leak or infection | Tell your team |
07Key terms
- Thrombosis
- A clot in a vein.
- Occlusion
- Flow stopping in a line.
08Key points
- Everyone’s plan is individual.
- Write down and bring your questions.
- Report new symptoms early.
- Do not change medicines yourself.
- For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
- Overview: “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
09Frequently asked questions
Will a blocked line be replaced?
Often it can be cleared; sometimes it must be replaced.
Is this the same for everyone?
No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.
Where is the overview?
In the article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
10Questions for your doctor
Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.
Will a blocked line be replaced?
Is this the same for everyone?
Where is the overview?
12Sources
- MedlinePlus. Central venous catheters – ports
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Definition of central venous catheter – NCI Dictionary
- MedlinePlus. Deep Vein Thrombosis
- MedlinePlus. Hepatitis
- MedlinePlus. Hypothyroidism
- MedlinePlus. Osteoporosis
- MedlinePlus. Depression
- NHS. Acute myeloid leukaemia: Treatment
- American Cancer Society. Treating Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
- American Cancer Society. Fertility and Women With Cancer / Men With Cancer