Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

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pic line or no pic line?

deleted_user
deleted_user
I have been receiving solumedrol IV infusion every other week for several months now. Recently, this therapy is not working as well as it had been, and my dr. also thinks I'm having a flare-up. She is prescribing solumedrol infusion weekly. The problem I have is that I have TERRIBLE veins. My dr. suggsested to have a pic line put in so I can easily start the IV and not have to do the old hunt and peck each week, and the veins will not become more and more difficult. Could anyone offer any thought on this. Thanks
TexasMS
TexasMS
I had one, it had to be moved every 3 days
kellygrn
kellygrn
A pic line is for extended use. Something must have been wrong with yours TexasMS.

I personally haven't had one yet but in January I should be starting Tysabri & will have one put in then.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Yes to Picc line. I am a nurse and put them in a few times a week. It is put in the crook of your arm and can stay in for along time. You will have to change the dressing as directed. It is not a big deal and will make your life so much easier. Good luck.
deleted_user
deleted_user
My PICC was better than being stuck every 3 days, but it wasn't perfect either...it was close to a bundle branch of nerves and caused me alot of underarm pain.

How long do you expect to need the infusions? Perhaps a midline would work...it's similar to a PICC but the line is not as long, does not extend up as far, so less chance of nerve pain. It all depends on how long though...good luck.
TexasMS
TexasMS
I am guessing that what I had was not a pic line
deleted_user
deleted_user
WHEN I WAS ON THE IV STEROIDS I HAD A PIC LINE PUT IN BUT THAT WAS ONLY FOR ONE WEEK .I WILL NOT TAKE IT AGAIN I FEEL THEY'RE SO BAD FOR US.I TAKE LDN NOW AND IM FEELING OK.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I had one a couple of months ago my veins do not cooperate at all. It was so easy and do not know why I will endure the endless sticks and bruises again, if having one is a possiblity.
deleted_user
deleted_user
We aren't sure how long I will need to do the therpy on a weekly basis. I also worry about the possibilty of infection and hurting myself with the line in. I'm a teacher, and I have no intentions on stopping work, I worry about all the germs I'm exposed to and the kids...the bump into you, you into them, that sort of stuff. I'm thinking about giving it a few weeks, maybe four, and see how my veins hold up. I the nurse that came this week to start my IV suggested a PORT,I know that is very different. She said she doesn't know how cooperative my veins are going to be with weekly treatmemnts. Great...huh.
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