IV therapy hangover also referred to as central venous pressure overshoot syndrome occurs after prolonged intravenous therapy due to prolonged sitting or standing post-injection. It is a complication of central venous catheterization which occurs within the first few hours and is associated with standing or sitting after injection of the solution. It may also be noted that during the course of treatment, on some occasions, your physician may advise you to rest for some time after the procedure.
Tips on How to Deal with IV Therapy Hangover
1. Proper position
Since the blood flow in your legs begins after the blood flow in your arm, while injecting and connecting the catheter, it is advisable to position yourself on a chair or bed. In case you are unable to stand up, it is recommended to remain to lie down for some time.
2. Avoid stretching
Stretching movements of your limbs like walking or coughing may lead to increased leg volume and peripheral edema formation.
3. Avoid eating or drinking sodium-rich foods
These can cause sodium retention which could further elevate your blood pressure and, hence, fluid retention. Also, salt depleted in these cases can lead to dehydration, leading to an increased risk of dehydration from the beginning of IV therapy hangover. Hence it is recommended that you drink a sufficient amount of fluids throughout the day and do not eat salty foods for at least a few days after the procedure.
4. Avoid long periods of sitting
Long periods of sitting may increase the pressure in your legs, thus leading to the formation of edema. Therefore your physician may advise you to rest for a while after the procedure and you are advised not to sit for long. In case it is uncomfortable to sleep, you can try lying down, which will also allow blood flow from your arms to go down.
5. Avoid using alcohol in large amounts
Alcohol is diuretic and may lead to dehydration which could further lead to hypovolemic shock and insulin resistance in patients with diabetes mellitus and obesity.
6. Avoid vigorous physical activity
Vigorous physical activity or exercise can lead to increased blood flow in your arms and legs. Hence avoiding physical strain is important and should be encouraged, at least for a few days after the procedure.
7. Avoid standing for long periods after the procedure
It is recommended that you avoid standing on your feet for long periods of time after the procedure as it may increase peripheral edema in your lower extremities, thereby increasing the risk of having complications that are related to fluid retention such as pitting edema, cellulitis, etc.
8. Avoid getting a massage
After the IV therapy hangover, it is recommended that you avoid getting a massage as it may lead to increased blood flow in your legs and lead to fluid retention, leading to further complications that are related to fluid retention.
Conclusion
IV therapy hangover is a complication of central venous catheterization, which may lead to complications like peripheral edema, cellulitis, pitting edema, etc. Proper precautions can be taken in order to prevent this problem. You should have a word of advice from the physician in order to get a complete picture of what you should or should not do after the procedure has been performed on you.
