My husband had blood work done. Two days later, above the area where the needle was, his skin turned red and painful. Felt like the vain was hard. After a few days the arm pain went away but now has it in his leg. He has no fever but red, hard and painful. What do you think this is and what do you recommend we do?
Hi. It can be an irritated vein or Superficial Phlebitis . It occurs due to any injury to the vein, any impaired venous flow or coagulation disturbance. It is commonly not complicated and resolves gradually. He can take anti-inflammatory medicine like Advil or Motrin and do warm (not hot) compresses over it. Avoid pressing or massaging over it. In case if it worsens consult an Emergency room and get evaluated. As of now it does not look like anything to be worried about. Hope I have answered your query. Please let me know if I can assist you further. Regards.