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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Painful Swelling On The Elbow?

My left elbow began to swell two days ago. It seems to not involve the joint, but rather, flesh. It is hot, and irritated. It has been painful to the touch, and hurts to bend it. Also, I seem to have muscle pain all over, AND I am falling asleep during the day. I slept from 9:00 last night till about 9:00 this morning, and have taken about 4 hours of sleep since then in two naps, both times awakened by a phone call. There seems to be a focal point of the swelling on my elbow, but it is thick skin there, and so a bit of some sort seems unlikely. Thank you for your help.
posted on Wed, 3 Aug 2016
Twitter Wed, 7 Sep 2016 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 8 Sep 2016 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

You may have an infection of the soft tissue, this is called cellulitis. Alternatively since you notice a focal point, this may mean that there may be an abscess developing in that area.

Increased warmth, pain can occur with either of these.

It would be best to see your doctor for assessment because antibiotics would be needed in either case.
If it is an abscess, it may need in office incision and drainage.

I hope this helps
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What Causes Painful Swelling On The Elbow?

HI, thanks for using healthcare magic You may have an infection of the soft tissue, this is called cellulitis. Alternatively since you notice a focal point, this may mean that there may be an abscess developing in that area. Increased warmth, pain can occur with either of these. It would be best to see your doctor for assessment because antibiotics would be needed in either case. If it is an abscess, it may need in office incision and drainage. I hope this helps