Veins

[Melaxx]

Lately they find it very difficult to take blood, today the nurse tried 4/5 times but she couldn’t do it I have to go back tomorrow. I’ve been very tired , difficult doing stairs , uphill . I have raynauds and I asked the Rheumatologist if could’ve been vascular problems, he said no because of my age but I’m 52 , my father started to have vascular problems around my age. My body feel all swelled up to , I don’t eat much and drink plenty, today my belly as well is very tender to touch , I hope is not blood clotting or something. With this virus situation they really left me going down hill , I have to chase all appointments and to be honest I can’t be bother anymore . Sorry about my rant !

Take care everyone xxx

[weathervane]

I have the same problem, try to be well hydrated before you go and nice and warm. My practice nurse is great and there is one nurse in the infusion unit who i ask for if she is on , some people are better and getting blood than others !!

[tillie]

Same problem with blood and today simply the worst. Nurse who achieves nearly gave up after trying but with me saying your not going until we get some, some was achieved fingers crossed enough for lab.

[Roarah]

In addition to drinking a pint of water before going for your draw if they are having difficulty after two tries ask for a smaller needle. Good luck.

[Melaxx in reply to Roarah]

Hi, I went today , early morning didn’t drink any coffee just water and after one fail attempt she managed to get it . Thank you for your replies 😊

[Insomniacette]

I also have this issue - I drink a tonne of water before I go in to have blood drawn and ask them to use the butterfly needles as they tend to do better finding my veins when they use them.

[Cruising2020]

Hi - I also have had this problem throughout my life. Best advice I can give it to drink as much as your bladder can comfortably hold - also take water with you whilst you’re waiting. Keep as warm as you can, even wear your gloves in the waiting room. Always ask for butterfly needle.Best of luck, I do sympathise with you, Keep safe

[BeeManShrop]

Hi Melaxx A tip given by the best nurse at getting blood from my wife (who uses a butterfly). Warm your arm before you go -- we use one of those bean bags that you put in the microwave for a couple of minutes as well as holding a palm hand warmer. My wife holds it along her arm right to the point of going into the clinic. I also have a twice daily job to take a drop of blood for her diabetes blood sugar level. If her fingers are cold (which is often - Raynaulds) I cannot even get a small drop enough for the test until her fingers/thumbs have warmed up. Warmth seems to be the answer. Hope this helps for the future.