Opioids Red rash around IV injection site

Hello,

A couple days ago I shot up some dope in both arms, about 6 times in the left and about 3 times in the right. The next day, and today included, the injection site became a bit swelled, sore and bruised (discolored) which is typical of my arms; they don't take needles very well at all.

This time, however, a large red rash has formed around the injection site and continues a bit down the arm in each direction. It is quite large on the left arm (the one I did the most shots in) and smaller in the right. It does not itch or particularly hurt too much, although like I said the area is tender.

Does anyone know what this is? My guess is that there was some irritants in the dope that is now causing the rash, but since I hardly ever shoot up, my guess is as good as my cat's, who honestly hasn't been very helpful thus far.

All I know to watch for is that tell tale circular red form meaning absess on the way. But you probably already know all about that. Does it have any heat?

Could be any number of things. Irritation, infection, etc.

If it doesn't get better in a day, you should seek medical attention.