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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Swelling In The Hand After A Thorn Prick?

I brushed the back of my right hand around my knuckle area on a cactus that is in a pot on my deck. It bled slightly but I could not feel any cactus pickers to pull out. They can be very fine. Within about an hour it started to swell and be bright red at the knuckle. It has since grown very sore and swollen. It seems warm to the touch and the entire back of my hand aches. I still feel no thorns or see signs of cactus thorns. Is it cellulitis and so fast?? Very painful.
Mon, 22 Aug 2016
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Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
By your history and description, possibility of cellulitis is more.
Cellulitis is skin infection and it is very common after such injury.
Actually surface of cactus is full of infective microorganisms. So injury caused by cactus has high chances of cellulitis.
And yes, cellulitis can develop rapidly.
Immediately consult surgeon and get done clinical examination of local part.
You will need antibiotics, painkiller and anti inflammatory drugs. If still not improving then debridement should be done.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.
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What Causes Swelling In The Hand After A Thorn Prick?

Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic. I can understand your concern. By your history and description, possibility of cellulitis is more. Cellulitis is skin infection and it is very common after such injury. Actually surface of cactus is full of infective microorganisms. So injury caused by cactus has high chances of cellulitis. And yes, cellulitis can develop rapidly. Immediately consult surgeon and get done clinical examination of local part. You will need antibiotics, painkiller and anti inflammatory drugs. If still not improving then debridement should be done. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.