Suggest Treatment For Severe Pain And Swelling In Hand

Posted on Wed, 1 Feb 2017

Question: Could I have gotten blood poisoning from 8 or 10 cat bites/scratches? Was attacked by cat 3 days ago. Hand is hugely swollen, red in color, and extremely painful. The cat has had shots, but not in last year or two. Should I see a doctor, or just give it some time? Should I be doing anything at home? I have applied a pain-relieving creme, which does little, if anything.
Thanks for your help, XXXXXXX Branin (age 85, if that matters)

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Your hand is infected.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Your hand is swollen due to infection and associated inflammation.I prescribe Antibiotic like Linezolid 600mg twice daily after food,Anti inflammatory tablet twice daily after food.You should keep the affected limb elevated.
Please do not apply pain relieving cream.It may aggravate the condition.
Regarding Anti Rabies vaccine,you should consult your doctor and proceed.Appropriate antibiotic prescription is also necessary.
Do not delay.
Please consult your doctor immediately, get examined clinically and proceed accordingly.
Nothing to worry.
Hope I answered your query.If you have any questions, I will clarify further.
Wish you good health.
Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng