Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Remedy For Itchy Swollen Wrist
Question: I started itching by my left wrist and it got swollen like a bug bited. Now it is letting out puss.
Brief Answer:
may be superficial or deep infection
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
The swelling can occur due to an inflammatory reaction to the bug bite but may also be seen in infection as well.
The presence of pus indicates that an infection is present. The infection may be superficial or may extend to the deeper layers (cellulitis).
Infection may also present with redness, increased warmth, increased temperature of the arm.
If it is only a small area involved , you are not diabetic and there is no generalized swelling or none of the other symptoms mentioned are present then you can try the following: (1) continue the use of the antiseptic
(2)use an anti inflammatory agent to help reduce the swelling- eg ibuprofen, naproxen
An oral antihistamine would help to reduce the itching
(3)a topical antibiotic should also be used eg bactroban, neosporin
If you have a history of diabetes, if any of the other symptoms and signs are present or if the swelling is generalized or there is profuse discharge , then you may need oral antibiotics.
Summary: (1) infection may be superficial or deep
(2)if it is superficial then using an antiseptic, topical antibiotic, anti inflammatory agent and antihistamine may help
If this is done and symptoms worsen then oral antibiotics may be needed. You would need to carefully monitor
(3)if other symptoms are present- generalized swelling, redness, tenderness, increased warmth, increasing discharge then you need oral antibiotics from your doctor
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
may be superficial or deep infection
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
The swelling can occur due to an inflammatory reaction to the bug bite but may also be seen in infection as well.
The presence of pus indicates that an infection is present. The infection may be superficial or may extend to the deeper layers (cellulitis).
Infection may also present with redness, increased warmth, increased temperature of the arm.
If it is only a small area involved , you are not diabetic and there is no generalized swelling or none of the other symptoms mentioned are present then you can try the following: (1) continue the use of the antiseptic
(2)use an anti inflammatory agent to help reduce the swelling- eg ibuprofen, naproxen
An oral antihistamine would help to reduce the itching
(3)a topical antibiotic should also be used eg bactroban, neosporin
If you have a history of diabetes, if any of the other symptoms and signs are present or if the swelling is generalized or there is profuse discharge , then you may need oral antibiotics.
Summary: (1) infection may be superficial or deep
(2)if it is superficial then using an antiseptic, topical antibiotic, anti inflammatory agent and antihistamine may help
If this is done and symptoms worsen then oral antibiotics may be needed. You would need to carefully monitor
(3)if other symptoms are present- generalized swelling, redness, tenderness, increased warmth, increasing discharge then you need oral antibiotics from your doctor
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
