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Suggest Treatment For Swelling On Palm Post Injury
Question: I have a deep puncture wound. I stuck a screwdriver nearly through the palm of my hand on the deep side by the thumb and it stopped just short of breaking the skin on the top of my hand. I sought treatment and the wound was cleaned and bandaged. I was also given a tetanus shot.
X-rays did not reveal tendon or bone damage.
I have been putting ice on it. There is significant swelling that I think is causing most of the pain and inability to use my thumb. How long until the swelling subsides and things go back to normal assuming I do not develop an infection? I was given antibiotics but the pharmacy was closed and remains closed until tomorrow morning.
It has been 24 hours since my accident.
X-rays did not reveal tendon or bone damage.
I have been putting ice on it. There is significant swelling that I think is causing most of the pain and inability to use my thumb. How long until the swelling subsides and things go back to normal assuming I do not develop an infection? I was given antibiotics but the pharmacy was closed and remains closed until tomorrow morning.
It has been 24 hours since my accident.
Brief Answer:
Swelling is due to haematoma.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
The swelling in the Thumb in such cases is mostly due to Haematoma, collection of blood and inflammation. Antibiotic is essential to prevent the collection turning into Pus. Apart from Antibiotic, anti inflammatory tablet along with serratiopeptidase is also needed. This will reduce the swelling.
With adequate treatment, it will take atleast 1 week for complete resolution if there is no infection. If pus is collected, it has to be drained. Therefore I recommend strict and careful monitoring. You should not hesitate to see the doctor again if symptoms worsen, if you fever develops or you see purulent discharge.
Hope I answered your query. If you have any questions, I will clarify further.
Regards
Swelling is due to haematoma.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
The swelling in the Thumb in such cases is mostly due to Haematoma, collection of blood and inflammation. Antibiotic is essential to prevent the collection turning into Pus. Apart from Antibiotic, anti inflammatory tablet along with serratiopeptidase is also needed. This will reduce the swelling.
With adequate treatment, it will take atleast 1 week for complete resolution if there is no infection. If pus is collected, it has to be drained. Therefore I recommend strict and careful monitoring. You should not hesitate to see the doctor again if symptoms worsen, if you fever develops or you see purulent discharge.
Hope I answered your query. If you have any questions, I will clarify further.
Regards
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
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