Hi.
I was in the ER yesterday morning, and got an IV, but the guy who tried first missed multiple times, I think, and ultimately gave up. However at the site where he tried, I've not only got a grape sized lump or bump, but also bruising that is traveling up the side of the arm.
I had asked the same nurse if I would be fine exercising, but he didn't mention not to work my arms or anything. In hindsight, this was almost certainly assinine, but I ended up taking the bandage (and guaze that put pressure on it) off, and going to the gym the same day and doing lots of things that used my arms. I was just beginning at the gym, so the weight would have been pretty light (in the 15-20lb) range... but now I'm worried that there could be a serious problem.
The lump feels like it's in a whole area, as opposed to a pinpoint type spot, so I was wondering if maybe it was just swollen, and if the bruising is being caused by a leak in the site. I also read that if a vein is "blown" the person should take the band off, and THEN look for gause... I think this man might have done it the other way around.
What should I do, and should I be concerned? I was really scared that maybe it was a clot, but then I realized the area (again, about the width of a grape) seems kind of big to be IN the vein, but I am pretty worried, and hope someone can tell me if I should be really alarmed/seek help immediately or what I should do.
I know that we should be careful about advice over the internet, because people can't check it out in person, but... I have no job, no insurance or anything, so I can't really afford to rush back to the doctor if it's really nothing, or if it's something that can be taken care of at home. I'm including a picture I took just now (this is not the same night as the ER, but the following night).
Thank you very much in advance for any help!