Every specialized infusion may or may not have side effects. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the possible side effects of receiving an IV can include:
Vein collapse: When a vein collapses when the needle enters the vein, making the vein unable to be used for that infusion cycle
An overload of fluid: When fluids are introduced too rapidly, resulting in headaches, high blood pressure, and breathing issues. Generally, this resolves once fluids even out. Be sure to tell your specialty nurse if you begin to experience a headache or trouble breathing, just to be safe.
Hematomas: When puncturing the skin causes blood to leak into the nearby tissue from the blood vessels. Essentially this will look like a bruise that resolves itself within a few weeks.
Phlebitis: This occurs when the vein becomes swollen in reaction to the IV. This is unfortunate but very common and is easily treated by removing the IV and applying a warm compress.
Infiltration: This happens when the catheter is misplaced or pops out of the vein causing the fluid to enter the blood vessels instead of the bloodstream. This can cause stinging and bruising, but it’s easily fixed.
Infection: There is always a small risk of infection when breaking the skin. However, the risk is minimal when the area is properly cleaned. If infection occurs, it’s usually treatable with antibiotics.
Air embolism: This occurs when excessive air gets in through the IV. This is a rare but severe complication.