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Warning-sign checks

Elbow and arm pain: 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

    Call emergency services if arm or elbow pain occurs with:

    • Chest pressure or discomfort, shortness of breath, faintness, or a cold sweat
    • A hand or arm that suddenly becomes cold, pale, blue, or severely numb
    • Heavy bleeding or a bone visible through the skin
    • Sudden loss of movement or feeling after an injury

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • 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 same-day care after a significant injury if the arm looks deformed, swelling is severe, or you cannot use it normally.

    Prompt assessment is also needed for spreading redness, warmth, fever, drainage, or a hot and very swollen joint, which can indicate infection.

    Seek assessment sooner for persistent weakness, numbness, tingling, or unexplained swelling.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if pain worsens, keeps returning, disrupts sleep or daily activities, or does not start improving with simple care.

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