Finger, Hand, and Wrist Problems, Non-injury

Emergencies

Yes	Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

• Hand pain or tingling with chest pain or pressure and any other symptoms of a heart attack
• Sudden hand weakness or numbness with other signs of loss of function
• Sudden hand pain with numbness and cold or pale skin that has lasted for more than a few minutes

Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

If you have any of the following symptoms, evaluate those symptoms first.

• An injury to your finger, hand, or wrist: Go to the topic Finger, Hand, and Wrist Injuries.
• Injury from cold exposure: Go to the topic Cold Temperature Exposure.
• Sudden hand swelling: Go to the topic Allergic Reaction.
• A fingernail problem or injury: Go to the topic Nail Problems and Injuries.
• A rash on your hands: Go to the topic Rash, Age 11 and Younger or Rash, Age 12 and Older.
• Swelling of your hand and you are pregnant: Go to the topic Pregnancy-Related Problems.

Yes	Do you have pain or stiffness in your finger, hand, or wrist?
Yes	Do you have swelling in your finger, hand, or wrist?
Yes	Do you have numbness or tingling in your finger, hand, or wrist?
Yes	Do you have pale, white, blue, or cold fingers or hands?
Yes	Did you have or do you now have weakness or decreased movement or strength in a finger, hand, or wrist?
Yes	Do you have signs of infection in your finger, hand, or wrist?
Yes	Do you have a finger or thumb that snaps, pops, or locks during normal movement?
Yes	Do you have a lump or bump on your finger, hand, or wrist?

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

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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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