Elbow Problems, Noninjury
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Do you have swelling in or around the elbow?
See significance of swelling if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Do you have swelling and the skin below the swollen area is cold or pale?
Yes Do you have increased swelling, redness, or warmth around your elbow?
Yes Do you have severe pain when you move your elbow?
Yes Is your elbow tender to the touch?
Yes Do you know or think you have a fever?
Yes Do you have diabetes?
Yes Do you have peripheral arterial disease?
Yes Do you have a disease that causes problems with your immune system?
Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Has elbow swelling that is usual for you gotten worse?
You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Do you have moderate swelling after 48 hours of home treatment?
You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Has mild swelling, without other symptoms, failed to improve after 1 week of home treatment?
Yes Has long-term swelling gotten worse?
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: April 3, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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