Swollen Knuckles and Red Skin: When to Seek Medical Attention? - Orthopedics

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When it comes to swollen knuckles and red skin, particularly when accompanied by sensations of numbness or tingling, it is essential to consider several factors before determining the appropriate course of action. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a localized swelling that resembles a soft, water-filled bump, along with a change in skin color and some discomfort. Given that this has been ongoing for several years, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially if there are new symptoms or changes in the condition.


When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Persistent Symptoms: If the swelling and redness have persisted for an extended period, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Chronic symptoms can indicate an underlying condition that may require treatment.

2. Pain and Discomfort: The fact that you experience pain when pressing on the swollen area is a significant indicator that you should seek medical advice. Pain can be a sign of inflammation or infection, which may need to be addressed.

3. Changes in Sensation: The numbness you mentioned could suggest nerve involvement or irritation. This symptom warrants further investigation to rule out conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or other neuropathies.

4. Skin Changes: The description of the skin appearing "strawberry" in color could indicate inflammation or a vascular issue. Changes in skin color, especially if accompanied by swelling, should not be ignored.

5. Associated Symptoms: If you notice any additional symptoms such as fever, increased swelling, or the development of new lumps, these could be signs of a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.


Recommended Specialists
Given your symptoms, you may want to consider seeing the following specialists:
- Dermatologist: A dermatologist specializes in skin conditions and can assess the swelling and skin changes. They can perform necessary tests, such as a skin biopsy, if needed, to determine the cause of the swelling and redness.

- Rheumatologist: If there is a suspicion of an autoimmune condition (such as rheumatoid arthritis), a rheumatologist would be the appropriate specialist to consult. They can evaluate joint swelling and pain in the context of systemic symptoms.

- Oncologist: Since you mentioned that a previous doctor suggested seeing an oncology specialist due to the presence of hard lumps, it may be wise to follow up on that recommendation, especially if there are any concerns about the nature of these lumps.


Conclusion
In summary, it is essential to take your symptoms seriously, especially given their duration and the presence of pain and numbness. Seeking medical attention from a dermatologist or rheumatologist would be a prudent first step. They can provide a thorough evaluation and guide you toward the appropriate treatment based on their findings. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek help.