Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Red, Swollen And Tender Arm After Shot Up Heroin. Can Keflex Antibiotic Be Taken?
i shot up some heroin for the first time in a long time,i am a ex i.v user anyways i missed the shot and now my arm is red swollen just alittle and is very tender.i have had this many times before and most of the time it goes away by itself but what my main question is do i put an icepack or heat to it ?today is the third day,and would keflex antibiotic be good to take?
Fri, 28 Jun 2013
Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query.
From the description of your symptoms, it appears that you have suffered a thrombo-phlebitis (blockage and inflammation of the vein). However, sometimes this can lead to an infection / inflammation of the surrounding tissues (known as cellulitis) and if this is the case, then it can be dangerous.
Though giving cold fomentation (with an ice pack) would help, I would suggest that it's best to have yourself examined by a doctor and get the necessary treatment. It is not advisable to start antibiotics on your own without a proper examination. After an evaluation, your doctor will be able to decide whether you need a course of antibiotics and if so, which one is appropriate.
Wish you all the best.
Regards,
Dr. Sheeba Stephen
From the description of your symptoms, it appears that you have suffered a thrombo-phlebitis (blockage and inflammation of the vein). However, sometimes this can lead to an infection / inflammation of the surrounding tissues (known as cellulitis) and if this is the case, then it can be dangerous.
Though giving cold fomentation (with an ice pack) would help, I would suggest that it's best to have yourself examined by a doctor and get the necessary treatment. It is not advisable to start antibiotics on your own without a proper examination. After an evaluation, your doctor will be able to decide whether you need a course of antibiotics and if so, which one is appropriate.
Wish you all the best.
Regards,
Dr. Sheeba Stephen
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Thrombophlebitis
Loading Online Doctors....