IV Opiate Drug User. Noticed Redness And Stiffness In Wrist, Thumb And Arm. Should I Go To ER?

Posted on Sat, 24 Nov 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 24 Nov 2012 Answered on

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : IV opiate drug user causing I think redness, stiffness starting in wrist , thumb area and spreading up the arm, redness and pain. what should i do. should I go to emergency room.

Answered by Dr. Anantharamakrishnan (2 hours later)

Hi friend,
Welcome to Health Care Magic

Yes, YOU SHOULD...go the Emergency Room

This suggests possible Thrombophlebitis and/or Infection.

There is danger of embolism and/or systemic spread

Take care
Wishing speedy recovery
God bless
Good luck

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar