Tips for Living Comfortably With a Mediport

When patients have to go through a lot of blood draws, it can significantly impact their veins. For this reason, many medical professionals opt for mediport placements. These devices are vital when it comes to receiving various medical treatments, such as infused contrast solutions or chemotherapy. Due to the fact that many ports are placed under the skin, they may seem uncomfortable for some. Thankfully, there are some tips that can make you more comfortable while living with your mediport.

What To Do When You First Get a Mediport

Follow the post-operative care after your mediport is first implanted. This involves keeping the sutures in the area around it dry and clean and watch closely for any sign of infection. After surgery, you can expect some pain and discomfort, including bruising around the site. However, this will subside within a few days for most patients. From there, maintenance and care are relatively simple and easy.

Mediport Maintenance

Your mediport can be a lifesaver. Your job is to keep it from getting infected and make sure it is flushed regularly and properly (usually by a healthcare professional). Infections can occur around your mediport at any time, so the best prevention is keeping it clean and dry. The second-best approach is to carefully watch for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or fever. If you observe any of these signs, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Mediport Considerations

It is typically fine to resume most normal activities with a mediport, pending final word from your doctor. However, it is best to avoid heavy lifting and significant upper body movements unless you have specifically consulted your healthcare provider. As long as your mediport is not being accessed, it is safe to take baths and swim. However, if there are any openings in the skin, you will want to avoid getting the area wet until it properly heals. Finally, it’s best to wear loose-fitting clothes over your mediport, to prevent it from rubbing or being pressed against unnecessarily.

Mediport Longevity

Depending on your needs, your mediport can remain in place for months or sometimes years. Typically, your healthcare provider will authorize you to have it removed once your course of treatment is complete and the mediport is no longer needed.

Want to Know More About Caring for Your Mediport?

The Midatlantic Vascular & Interventional in Bowie, MD, is here to provide comprehensive evaluation, treatment, and care to patients who require a mediport. Call 301-622-5360 to schedule an appointment to see if a mediport is right for you.