Is My Hand Just in Need of Some Rest?
I’m a 26-year-old woman and two days ago, I had an unfortunate fall when a friend playfully pushed me, causing me to land on my arm. Since then, I’ve noticed that my hand has become progressively more swollen. Would using a compression bandage provide some relief, or do I need to seek medical attention? Although the pain seems to have lessened somewhat, I’m now struggling to clench my fingers into a fist or lift any objects.
Answers (1)
6/29/2025, 10:20:38 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing swelling and reduced function in your hand after your fall, which can be concerning. While rest and compression can help in managing minor injuries, there are some indications that further assessment may be necessary.
Explanation:
Swelling and difficulty with movement after an injury can indicate a few possibilities, including a sprain, strain, or even a fracture in the bones of your hand or wrist. The fact that you’re having trouble clenching your fingers and lifting objects suggests that your hand may need more than just rest. It's great that the pain is lessening, but the swelling and functional limitations are signs that you should proceed with caution.
Next Steps:
-
Apply R.I.C.E Method:
- Rest: Avoid using your hand as much as possible.
- Ice: Apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the swollen area for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours to help reduce swelling and pain.
- Compression: Using a compression bandage can provide support and help limit swelling, but ensure it’s not too tight as that can cut off circulation.
- Elevation: Keep your hand elevated above heart level when resting to further help control swelling.
-
Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep track of any additional pain, increasing swelling, or changes in movement over the next few days. Note any changes in color or temperature, which can indicate complications.
-
Seek Medical Attention if:
- The swelling worsens significantly.
- Your pain increases or remains severe.
- You lose function in your fingers or have persistent numbness.
- You notice bruising or deformities in your hand.
Remember, while self-care is important, it's crucial to listen to your body. If symptoms worsen or do not improve in a few days, consider professional evaluation to rule out any serious injuries. Please take care and keep track of how you’re feeling!
Related Questions
Is Breathing Through the Mouth Detrimental?
16M, 5'9", 150 lbs I'm curious about whether breathing through the mouth is truly harmful. I've come across various claims online suggesting that it might lead to facial deformities. To get to the bottom of this concern, I'm turning to medical professionals for their insights.
Severe Discomfort in Arms and Hands
Age: 16, Weight: 120 lbs, Height: 5'6 Greetings, approximately three to four weeks ago, I began experiencing intense pain in my left arm, particularly noticeable at night when I moved. It felt as though my bones were aching, and I noticed some twitching in my fingers. This discomfort would intermittently worsen, resulting in some days being significantly more painful than others. Recently, however, the pain returned more intensely. Last night, while attempting to sleep, I was struck by an excruciating sensation that enveloped my entire left arm and hand. The discomfort then radiated to my right arm and extended to both hands. At one point, I even felt the pain migrate to my leg. The pain in my arms became so overwhelming that I struggled to find relief, but ultimately, I managed to doze off. Now, I’ve awoken to an even more intense ache in my arms and hands. There is no numbness, tingling, or weakness, and my skin does not appear pale; it is just this relentless, severe pain that I cannot shake off.
Swelling on Lower Lip
My son, a 22-year-old male who stands at 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs around 100 kilograms, has noticed a significant swelling on his lower lip. This lump has increased in size over the last six weeks. He occasionally uses a vape and consumes alcohol, but has no relevant medical background. Can anyone offer insight into what this might be?
Strange Tingling in Upper Right Abdomen
Hello! I’m a 31-year-old male, and for about two months now, I’ve been experiencing a peculiar tingling feeling in the upper right part of my abdomen. Although it isn't painful, the sensation can occasionally become quite pronounced. I initially thought it might be the result of a pinched nerve since its occurrence is inconsistent and seems to shift when I change my posture. However, this has persisted for quite some time. Could this be a side effect of medication? The only new medications I've introduced into my routine are Apretude and Auvelity, alongside Lexapro, which I've taken for just over a year now.
Considering Treatment Options for Eye Issues
Good evening, everyone. A couple of months back, I discovered a small lump on my left eyelid, which unfortunately increased in size. I treated it using prescription antibiotic ointment and eye drops from an ophthalmologist, but to no avail. Recently, I woke up to find my lower eyelid particularly swollen and noticeable bump had formed. Seeking further perspective, I visited another eye specialist here in Seville, Spain, who diagnosed me with a chalazion in my left lower eyelid. Upon examination, it was identified that I have two chalazia, both exhibiting signs of inflammation. Here's the prescribed treatment plan: - **Gentadexa eye drops**: Administer four times daily for one week, followed by every eight hours for a week, then twice daily until my next appointment. - **Prednisone + Neomycin ointment**: To be applied every eight hours on the eyelids for a span of three weeks. - **Zitromax 500 mg**: Take one tablet daily for three days. - **Varidasa tablets**: One tablet to be taken every eight hours for eight days. I’ve been adhering to this treatment regimen for nearly ten days now, yet the swelling persists—at times, a small yellow spot can even be observed. I am also applying warm compresses, but this has not produced any noticeable improvements. After reaching out again to my ophthalmologist today, he proposed the possibility of a cortisone injection directly into the chalazion. However, I am concerned about the potential side effects associated with this option. Would it be more advisable to opt for a minor surgical procedure to remove the chalazia instead, as it might entail fewer complications? I’m struggling to identify any other viable solutions; the swelling is not just bothersome—it's affecting my confidence, and I’m dealing with blurry and cloudy vision. I would greatly appreciate any insights or advice. Thank you.