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Warning-sign checks

Dupuytren contracture: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get urgent or emergency help if a finger becomes pale, blue, cold, or suddenly loses sensation, especially after treatment or an injury.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice after a procedure if you develop increasing redness, warmth, swelling, discharge, fever, worsening pain, or a wound that is opening.

    New persistent numbness or difficulty moving the finger should also be assessed.

    Uncontrolled bleeding or rapidly increasing swelling after a procedure also needs urgent care.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if you notice a new palm lump, a firm cord, or a finger that is gradually becoming harder to straighten.

    Assessment is also appropriate if the change affects washing, dressing, work, hobbies, or your ability to place the hand flat.

The article also says

Sudden severe hand pain or a sudden inability to move a finger is not typical of Dupuytren contracture.

It may indicate an injury or another hand condition.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Dupuytren contracture. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.