Causes for a swollen thumb can arise from a bacterial infection within the nail , trauma from a injury that is affecting the thumb bones, or inflammation of the thumb joints. A sprained thumb and arthritis are the most common culprits for a swollen thumb.
What to do if your thumb is swollen and hurts?
Rest: Support the thumb and rest it for as long as possible. Ice : Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for about 10 minutes every hour for the first day. Compress: Wear an elastic (ACE) bandage to reduce swelling. Elevate: Keep the hand raised above heart level to reduce swelling and pain.
Why is my fingertip swollen and warm?
Infection . A range of infections can cause the finger to become swollen, painful, and hot. An infection near the nail bed can cause swelling and tenderness. This is called paronychia.
How do I reduce swelling in my thumb?
- Apply heat and cold to help alleviate swelling caused by mild thumb injuries and arthritis.
- Change your diet. ...
- Soak your thumb in a warm or cool Epsom salt bath for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Rest your thumb if you have a mild injury.
When should I see a doctor for a swollen thumb?
If pain is due to arthritis, tendinitis, or repetitive use, 20 minutes of a warm pack or compress several times a day can help relieve pain by relaxing the tissues and increasing blood flow to the area. If the finger is seriously inflamed or swollen, first see a doctor and wait 48 hours before using a warm pack .
What is wrong with my thumb joint?
Thumb arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint wears away. Thumb arthritis is common with aging and occurs when cartilage wears away from the ends of the bones that form the joint at the base of your thumb — also known as the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint.
How do I know if I tore a ligament in my thumb?
- Pain and severe swelling on the inner part of the thumb immediately after the injury.
- Pain and severe swelling on the base of the thumb immediately, or shortly after the injury.
- Weakness and instability during grasp or writing.
- Loss of motion when attempting to move the thumb circular.
When should I be concerned about a swollen finger?
Because a swollen finger can be a sign of a serious infection or inflammation , you should talk with your medical professional about your symptoms. If you experience finger swelling with pain, redness, or warmth, seek prompt medical care.
What is the best antibiotic for finger infection?
Warm water soaks of the affected finger 3-4 times per day until symptoms resolve are helpful. Oral antibiotics with gram-positive coverage against S aureus, such as amoxicillin and clavulanic acid (Augmentin) , clindamycin (Cleocin), or or cephalexin, are usually administered concomitantly with warm water soaks.
How do you make a swollen finger go down fast?
- Keep your hand/arm elevated. If you keep your hand down, gravity is keeping the extra fluid in your hand. ...
- Apply ice to the affected area.
- Wear a splint or compressive wrap. Do not apply too tightly. ...
- Take anti inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen.
What happens if De Quervain’s goes untreated?
When De Quervain’s tendinitis is left untreated, the mobility of your wrist and thumb can be significantly hindered . “Initially, one of our hand specialists may recommend splinting and reduced activity. Another common treatment to reduce pain and swelling is cortisone injection.
Can u get gout in your thumb?
Gout flares are usually associated with signs of active inflammation, including redness, heat, swelling, and pain. Gout in the thumb can occur at the middle joint (the knuckle) or at the joint where the thumb meets the hand .
How can I improve my trigger thumb?
- Rest. Avoid activities that require repetitive gripping, repeated grasping or the prolonged use of vibrating hand-held machinery until your symptoms improve. ...
- A splint. Your doctor may have you wear a splint at night to keep the affected finger in an extended position for up to six weeks. ...
- Stretching exercises.
Should I go to urgent care for swollen thumb?
Severe range of motion limitations and infection are the chief warning signs that immediate medical treatment is necessary. If you are unable to move the finger unassisted or if red streaks radiate from a swollen area, seek a doctor’s advice.
When should you go to the doctor for a finger?
A person should see their doctor as quickly as possible when: the finger appears deformed or crooked . they develop a fever following the injury . the finger becomes significantly swollen .
What does it mean when your thumb feels like it’s burning?
Thumb arthritis can be related to osteoarthritis (which affects the joint and the bone) or rheumatoid arthritis (an auto-immune condition). Thumb pain at your thumb joint caused by arthritis can feel like burning, stabbing, or a more subtle creaking pain.
