I gave blood 2 days ago, and now my arm is horribly bruised

Question

It's the first time I've donated and although it didn't hurt, my arm looks pretty gross now. When I took my plaster off, there was a small bruise, however when I woke the next morning, it looked bad. There are three quite large, dark purple and black bruise. There is also a bit of a lump in the vein above the needle hole, and when I run my fingers over the vein above and below, it doesn't feel right. The hole is still pretty tender too. My arm and the bruises don't actually hurt, it's just tight. Only the hole is slightly sore. Is this normal? Should I be worried? Thanks.

Answer 1

I would get it checked out to be sure.

I've had blood tests where I was obviously being used as a student nurse dummy, amazing how it can vary depending on if the nurse is experienced.

Now I tell the nurses exactly where they can get blood from.

I'm sure the last time the medschool kid pierced through the other side of the vein, ugh.

Next time demand that you need someone very experienced as you bruise easily?

Answer 2

Did the nurse apply strong pressure on your arm after removing the needdle? If not this would explain the bruising. Some people bruise worse than others (I know I do) So you could just be unlucky enough to join the club! I wouldn't worry just yet but wait until the week-end is over and if it still proves sore then see your doctor.

Bruising extended overnight but that is only natural. Just try rest your arm, enjoy the week-end and you should be OK by Monday. if not! Get it checked.

Take care

Answer 3

Its normal to have some bruising, my arm was really sore after I got blood taken, but since there is more blood being taken from you when you donate I dont think you should worry too much...

But if it doesnt go away within next couple of dayz, go to your doctors.

xxxxx

Answer 4

I used to get this when I was having blood tests when I was pregnant. I usd to get big bruises too! It just means that the nurse taking blood didn't manage to get your vein properly to take blood (I am scared of needles and always used to move when they put the needle in!)

It will go away in time, so don't worry too much.

Well done for giving blood x

Answer 5

Sue the cockfisted Monkey fluffers.

And have your Blood back.

And some of theirs too.

BadBeast help?

Answer 6

Warm compresses  for 15 minute intervals. it will take a while for the bruising to subside.

Answer 7

no you shoudent be worried it is just your body is not used to that amount of blood been taken out at once.just keep drinking water or any fluids and i will go back to normaol soon.and good for you (for giving blood)

Answer 8

If you are concerned then speak to the Helpline on 08457 711 711 - they are probably the best people to answer this question for you as they deal with it constantly.

From a personal perspective the first donation was the most uncomfortable (I fainted) and I bruised. I've had a few occasions where the bruising has been dramatic but that doesn't happen often anymore. If it bruises then it will be tender for a bit and the more you touch it the more likely you are to irritate it further.

If you donate again, which I hope you do, then make sure that you keep the pressure on when the needle is first removed and leave the plaster on for the length of time that the staff tell you to, which is usually at least 6 hours, no matter how irritating it is or how tempted you are to take it off.  

I hope you don't let this put you off and that you will donate next time. And if you are concerned then speak to someone.

Answer 9

The First Time You Give Blood It Can Be Painful Over the next couple of weeks an some bruising can occur this is because of foreign bodies ( your body is not used to it) if pain persists don't hesitate to go to your doctors  

Answer 10

It's not exactly normal but it's harmless and will be back to normal soon. The nurse just didn't do a very good job of finding your vein. You were unlucky it happened the first time you gave blood but don't let it put you off.

Answer 11

I always get a bit of a raised bump and a bruise when I give blood, but nothing that severe.

Ring the blood transfusion board that you donated through and they will advise you.

However if you're the type of person that if you get a cut or anything and you don't heal very fast then it's prob just the way you are.

Answer 12

this happened too many times to my hubby. incompetent nurse. who couldnt find vein. so he dont donate anymore when she on duty.