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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Would Have Caused Swelling In Index Finger Which Is Warm And Puss Visible?

My 19 yr old nephew lives with me while attending college . His left index finger is swollen from the nailed to the first joint.Puss is clearly seen under the skin also warmer to touch than the other fingers. No bruising just discoloration r/t edema. No insurance parents noncontribut. What are my options. From what I can see this may be consistent with a spider bite, or from him biting at the area initially because it was itching.
Wed, 12 Mar 2014
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Is the swelling in the region where the nail joins the skin?

All signs of inflammation are present.

If it is a small swelling, (and due to the nail pressing on the skin/from his biting the nail), you can apply hot fomentation 3 times a day which will help soften the pus and help thereby in easy drainage. Once that is done, squeeze all the pus and wash the area thoroughly with warm soap and water...dry ..and then apply an antibiotic ointment.

However, for a better evaluation and examination, it would be better if he sees a doctor.

Hope this information was helpful to you.

Regards,
Dr. Divya Kuttikrishnan

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What Would Have Caused Swelling In Index Finger Which Is Warm And Puss Visible?

Is the swelling in the region where the nail joins the skin? All signs of inflammation are present. If it is a small swelling, (and due to the nail pressing on the skin/from his biting the nail), you can apply hot fomentation 3 times a day which will help soften the pus and help thereby in easy drainage. Once that is done, squeeze all the pus and wash the area thoroughly with warm soap and water...dry ..and then apply an antibiotic ointment. However, for a better evaluation and examination, it would be better if he sees a doctor. Hope this information was helpful to you. Regards, Dr. Divya Kuttikrishnan