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Suggest Treatment For Swelling In The Hand Post An Accident

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Posted on Sat, 11 Jun 2016
Question: My wife had struck her hand on hard object and the top of her hand has swollen up with what looks like blood. We've put ice on it but it seems to be the same. Should we go to the emergency room or urgent care?
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Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (43 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Some information:

Detailed Answer:
Hello Mr. Creecy,

Without a picture it is hard for me to say, but I can tell you this:

If there is a chance she may have fractured her hand (and from your description that sounds like it might be possible), then it would be a good idea to go in so that the doctor can get an X-ray to see what is going on.

Usually, other than ice, pressure, and elevation (she should rest her hand above the level of her heart), there isn't much that can be done to stop the initial bruising. If the bleeding is in an area that has no room to expand (such as the calf), then it needs to be surgically released, but this usually does not apply to the hand other than fingernails.

I think you are concerned and given that I can't see it, it might be wise to go into the ER or urgent care to have it looked at.

I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 3134 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Swelling In The Hand Post An Accident

Brief Answer: Some information: Detailed Answer: Hello Mr. Creecy, Without a picture it is hard for me to say, but I can tell you this: If there is a chance she may have fractured her hand (and from your description that sounds like it might be possible), then it would be a good idea to go in so that the doctor can get an X-ray to see what is going on. Usually, other than ice, pressure, and elevation (she should rest her hand above the level of her heart), there isn't much that can be done to stop the initial bruising. If the bleeding is in an area that has no room to expand (such as the calf), then it needs to be surgically released, but this usually does not apply to the hand other than fingernails. I think you are concerned and given that I can't see it, it might be wise to go into the ER or urgent care to have it looked at. I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.