Finger, Hand, and Wrist Injuries
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Is your finger, hand, or wrist swollen after an injury?
See significance of swelling if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Do you have swelling and the skin below the swollen area is cold or pale?
Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Did a lot of swelling develop within 30 minutes of an injury?
You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Do you have moderate swelling after 48 hours of home treatment?
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
| Author: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA | Last Updated: February 14, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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