Blood Test

[shazbang]

Is it normal to still have a huge bruise on my arm a whole week after getting a blood test? I've given blood many times and have never had even a slight discolouration. I had to get the test after finding a lump in my neck. One of the tests (smac) has already came back normal, just waiting on thyroid result. Doc has already ruled out anything dodgier than an infection. Cheers in advance :-)

[teag1rl]

Once when I gave blood at a donor session a huge bruise came up on my arm and lasted for at least a week, going through a wide variety of colours and looking horrible. It went away eventually and I didn't think too much of it, as they had mucked around getting the needle in. I don't think it is that unusual, but maybe someone else can put your mind at rest.

[lady_p_gold]

I always get a reaction like this so I don't think it is anything to worry about. Hope the tests are all ok.

[annavc]

I've bruised badly every time I've given blood - I think it happens when blood leaks under the skin while you're donating. Mine usually take a couple of weeks to disappear completely but I've been told its nothing to worry about.

[WoWo]

As above it's perfectly normal. I've given blood plenty of times and it's happended on the odd occassion.

[bracknell]

Did the dr or nurse have trouble finding a vein? If so they may have withdrawn the needle before finishing taking blood and it will leak into the skin just below the surface causing a bruising look. Happens to me all the time - nothing to worry about it does go - just takes a little longer

[susan g]

the reason you get such a bruise is A. the person has misjudged the vein and gone through it,causing blood to leak under the skin,this is called a hematoma, a lump may also occur. B. you are suffering from anaemia which means you havnt got enough red cells for the wound to clot. C. the person taking the blood takes the needle out too quickily causing bruising to the vein