Why Does IV Infusion Cause Pain? What Can Be Done to Alleviate It?

Intravenous infusion is a relatively common treatment method. For example, when someone has a severe cold, intravenous infusion may be used for treatment. However, some people may experience pain during the infusion process. There are several reasons for this pain, including low temperature of the infused liquid, too fast infusion speed, and high drug concentration.

Causes of Pain during Intravenous Infusion

Firstly, low temperature of the infused liquid can stimulate the surrounding blood vessels to contract, leading to local vasospasm pain. Secondly, too fast infusion speed and high drug concentration can cause local hyperosmolarity, stimulating the blood vessels and causing pain. Thirdly, high drug concentration often causes local pain during injection.

How to Deal with Pain during Intravenous Infusion

If you experience pain in the blood vessels during intravenous infusion, you should slow down the infusion speed and control the drip rate within a comfortable range. If the pain persists even at a very slow drip rate, you may need to adjust the position of the needle tip within the blood vessel. Alternatively, you can apply a warm towel to the painful area during the infusion. If the pain does not improve after these measures, the infusion should be stopped. If there is pain and cord-like changes in the blood vessels after the infusion, it is best to use magnesium sulfate wet dressing. If the pain worsens and the skin outside the blood vessel turns red, you should seek medical attention promptly.

Main Drawbacks of Intravenous Infusion

1. Improper handling can easily lead to systemic or local infections.

2. Excessive drug dosage or too fast infusion speed can cause adverse reactions, which may even be life-threatening.

3. Continuous excessive infusion can lead to excessive circulatory load or electrolyte imbalance.

4. There is an increase in iatrogenic diseases.