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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Swelling On The Finger Caused By An Insect Bite Be Treated?

I got a bug bite on my left ring finger yesterday evening which immediately swelled up and went numb. Plus my finger turned black and blue. I applied ice, cortisone cream, etc and it did stop hurting but in the morning the finger was still black and blue and somewhat numb. Went to nurse at work who immediately cut off my ring (wedding ring (:). The swelling is going done although some residual in the lower joint closest to my knuckle; that area is also black and blue. I can bend the finger in all joints, there is little pain in the lower part and numbness is gone. I am concerned about the bruising/black and blue. Should I go to the emergency room?
Wed, 20 Dec 2017
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Dentist,  's  Response
Hi..
Thanks for the query..

Swelling and pain in the area of insect bite is common as it can cause allergic reaction due to the toxic chemical injected under the skin..

Black and blue discolouration is due to piercing of any small blood vessel leading to accumulation of blood into the soft tissues under the skin causing bruising..

As swelling is going down it is a good sign and gradually the bruising will also also resolve gradually.

For now you can start doing alternate warm and cool compresses over the bruised area..
If it still itch you can take anti allergics like Benadryl..

If the symptoms does not improve in a week to ten days or the swelling and pain worsen, consult an Emergency room and get evaluated..

Hope this helps..

Regards.
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How Can Swelling On The Finger Caused By An Insect Bite Be Treated?

Hi.. Thanks for the query.. Swelling and pain in the area of insect bite is common as it can cause allergic reaction due to the toxic chemical injected under the skin.. Black and blue discolouration is due to piercing of any small blood vessel leading to accumulation of blood into the soft tissues under the skin causing bruising.. As swelling is going down it is a good sign and gradually the bruising will also also resolve gradually. For now you can start doing alternate warm and cool compresses over the bruised area.. If it still itch you can take anti allergics like Benadryl.. If the symptoms does not improve in a week to ten days or the swelling and pain worsen, consult an Emergency room and get evaluated.. Hope this helps.. Regards.