Coogrrr (with a swollen hand)

[coogrrr]

Does anyone have a possible diagnosis for a swollen hand from a dive that occurred 8 months ago? It started out as a rash and then seened to go deep into the joint and started swelling one of the joints

 

[flots am]

Does anyone have a possible diagnosis for a swollen hand from a dive that occurred 8 months ago? It started out as a rash and then seened to go deep into the joint and started swelling one of the joints

Without attempting to win the Mr. Obvious trophy, I still have to say this: "Have you considered seeing a doctor?"

Flots

 

[The Chairman]

I would agree with Captain Obvious... go see a Doctor IN PERSON.

 

[MAGELLAN]

Cellulitis - my first guess, Google it. I've known a few people who have a simple skin reaction "go bad" See a doctor as soon as possible, this can become very serious....


BTW, I'm not a doctor but I have seen one...

 

[Cave Diver]

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A ScubaBoard Staff Message...

Moved to diving medicine

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[coogrrr]

Thanks. I have been to both a regular Doctor and a hand specialist Dr. Niether one had a strong disagnosis. The hand specialist suggested a MRI and extensive blood tests if the problem persisted. I'm just looking for a more overlooked solution, since neither one has any experience with diving problems.

 

[DocVikingo]

Hi coogrrr,

It seems sensible to follow the hand specialist's advice.

RE "I'm just looking for a more overlooked solution, since neither one has any experience with diving problems." Sea urchin punctures at or near a joint have been known to cause such a reaction.

Regards,

DocVikingo

This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual and should not be construed as such. Consult with your physician before diving.

 

[flots am]

Thanks. I have been to both a regular Doctor and a hand specialist Dr. Niether one had a strong disagnosis. The hand specialist suggested a MRI and extensive blood tests if the problem persisted. I'm just looking for a more overlooked solution, since neither one has any experience with diving problems.

In that case, you should call DAN (number should be at the top of the page in this forum) for a referral to someone who does have experience.

Flots.

 

[TSandM]

Swelling and pain persistent over that period of time suggests ongoing inflammation. Possible causes could include a retained foreign body (eg. sea urchin spine, as Doc Vikingo mentioned) or an inflammatory condition totally unrelated to the dive. I'm not aware of any reaction to a contact irritant that would produce such persistent symptoms, but I'm not a marine toxicologist.

I second the recommendation to speak to DAN about a referral.