port discomfort

[mariapiedra]

Many thanks to all of you! I feel less anxious now knowing that others have had a similar experience with their port. I also feel like the port has been more painful than the lupectomy. I didn't know how to explain the breathing sensation I was feeling but when several of you mentioned "pulling" I immeadiately identified. The "pulling" has lessened and although the port side and my neck are still sore I now Know that too will subside.

Thanks again!!

I start chemo next week, I'm sure I'll have more questions after my first treatment. Having found a place to come 24/7 for support will get me through this.

Blessings to you all!
Maria

[rebecca0623]

Maria - thanks for this posting - I will be having port in next month or so and it is always helpful hearing about others' experiences so I don't get surprised. Welcome!

[Colleens_Husband]

Maria:

Colleen had some discomfort with her port especially when she turns her head quickly.

Colleen had another chemo last Thursday and the oncology nurse said she just had a meeting with the manufacturer's representative of the ports. The manufacturer's representative said that you should avoid touching or feeling the port. The section of the port that faces outward has a membrane. If you push the membrane, it will push the heparin out the end and when the membrane reflexes back to it's original shape it will draw blood into the tip of the catheter. The blood will coagulate and plug up the end of the catheter.

Skilled nurses can clean out the port but it takes a while to do and do you really want to have a chemo infusion last any longer than it needs to?

Good Luck Maria

Lee