Veins can collapse following frequent or improperly performed intravenous injections. The problem is almost always associated with the use of shoddy equipment and drug abuse. If a needle or injected substance irritates the inner lining of a vein, it can swell, causing it to collapse due to a lack of blood pressure. Veins can also collapse if an injection is given incorrectly and causes aspiration into the vein. If there is a possibility that you or a person you know have a collapsed vein, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Recognize the Symptoms
Step 1. Look for changes in the injection site
The most common symptoms of vein collapse are discoloration, localized pain, and swelling. Look for bruising, discoloration, or sensitivity to touch in the sting area.
The collapse of a large vein can also cause a cold sensation in the extremities, but usually this symptom is more often due to the collapse of an artery, a different and more serious problem
Step 2. Inspect the injection site
If the vein has collapsed, you will experience intense pain where the puncture was made. The area may also be bruised, blue and black, or itchy.
Step 3. Don't scratch yourself
If the injection site starts to itch, that's a good sign. Although it is confirmation that the vein has collapsed, the itch indicates that the blood is starting to reopen the vein and recirculate. However, scratching could stop this process and risk permanent damage.
Step 4. Consider the long-term effects
Almost all intravenous drug users suffer from collapse. Often, the veins reopen on their own. When this doesn't happen, serious permanent health complications can arise, including circulation problems.
Ultimately, not much can be done about a collapsed vein. Consequently, it is vital to prevent the problem from appearing
Method 2 of 3: Look for Treatments
Step 1. Recognize the severity of a collapsed vein
In many cases, collapsed veins don't heal. In addition, permanent damage can occur in a very short time. If you feel you have a collapsed vein, call a doctor or clinic to discuss treatment options.
For the vein to have the best chance of healing, do not inject anything into it anymore
Step 2. Ask a doctor which supplements can help you
Vitamin C and other supplements can counteract inflammation within the vein. That said, no supplement can eliminate the risk of collapse, nor guarantee that a collapsed vein will heal completely. It is always best to see a doctor right away if you feel you have this problem.
Step 3. Prepare for drug therapy or surgery
If you have been diagnosed with a collapsed vein, your doctor may prescribe anticoagulants that dilute the blood and promote circulation. In other cases, they may recommend surgery to repair the damaged veins as much as possible.
Method 3 of 3: Preventing the Veins from Collapsing
Step 1. Get help to stop taking drugs
The best way to prevent the veins from collapsing is to eliminate the behaviors that cause the problem. It is not easy to stop using drugs, especially if you have been in this habit for a long time. Fortunately, you have resources available to help you. Start with the first step and ask for assistance.
Step 2. Swap your needles
If you have decided not to quit, you can take precautions to make drug use less dangerous. First, find a needle exchange program in your area and take advantage of it.
Needles used with blunt ends are among the most common causes of collapsed veins
Step 3. Do not repeatedly inject in the same place
Collapsed veins are often the result of repeated trauma in the same area. Avoid getting regular punctures in the same vein and never inject anything into visibly swollen or bruised areas.
Step 4. Do not give injections in the hands or groin
The veins in the hands are small and collapse easily. Likewise, groin punctures can cause very dangerous circulation problems.
Step 5. Clean the area and needle before injecting
Dirt and other debris can enter the vein and cause irritation leading to collapse. For this reason, clean the puncture area and needle thoroughly before using it.
Step 6. Practice the injections slowly and carefully
There are many dangerous aspects of intravenous injections that are not done for medical purposes. For example, you should never squeeze the tourniquet too hard and you should slowly remove the needle after the puncture.
