Concerns After Train Door Incident: Injury Risks and Health Advice

I almost got caught by the train door?

Hello, today when I was out with my boyfriend, he hurriedly pulled me onto the train, and as I was walking in, the door almost closed on me and I felt a slight bump.
Although I don't feel any pain now, I'm wondering if I might have been injured.
When I got off, I noticed that the train doors had rubber seals, and my boyfriend said it's not that easy to get hurt.

Additionally, I remember seeing news abroad about people randomly stabbing others with needles, and I'm concerned if someone might have placed a real needle on the door.
Just now, I noticed a red spot on my arm, but I'm not sure what it is.
It could have been there before, as I was wearing a thin jacket and didn't feel any stabbing sensation, so I wonder if I should be overly worried about infection.
My boyfriend thinks I'm overthinking things, but he was the one who pulled me onto the train, causing the door to bump me.
I tend to worry a lot, so I hope the doctor can provide a professional perspective.
Thank you.
This is the area on my right arm that was bumped: https://ibb.co/pyCY0X5

Mei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/25

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on your description and the images provided, it seems that there is likely no injury.
Regarding your concerns about needle pricks or infections, the chances are low, so there is no need to worry.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/09/25

More Info

It sounds like you had a rather alarming experience with the train door incident, and it's completely understandable to have concerns about potential injuries or health risks following such an event. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity from a medical perspective.

Firstly, regarding the impact from the train door, if you felt a slight bump and are not experiencing any immediate pain, it is likely that you did not sustain a significant injury. Train doors are designed with safety features, such as rubber seals, to minimize the risk of injury during closing. However, even minor impacts can sometimes lead to bruising or soft tissue injuries that may not be immediately apparent. It's important to monitor the area for any changes, such as swelling, increased redness, or pain that develops over the next few days.

As for the red spot you noticed on your arm, it could be a variety of things, including a minor bruise from the impact, an insect bite, or even a skin irritation. If it does not worsen and you do not develop any additional symptoms, such as fever or spreading redness, it is likely nothing to worry about. However, if you notice any signs of infection (increased warmth, swelling, pus, or systemic symptoms like fever), you should seek medical attention.

Your concern about the possibility of being pricked by a needle is understandable, especially given the news stories about random acts of violence. However, if you did not feel any sharp pain or sensation at the time of the incident, it is unlikely that you were injured in that manner. The risk of contracting an infection from a needle stick is generally low if the needle is not visibly present and if you did not experience any immediate pain or bleeding.

In terms of your mental well-being, it's important to acknowledge that feeling anxious or worried after a stressful event is normal. If you find that your thoughts are excessively focused on potential injuries or health risks, it may be helpful to talk to someone about these feelings, whether it be a friend, family member, or mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral strategies can also be effective in managing anxiety.

In summary, while it is wise to be cautious and observant of your body after any incident, the likelihood of serious injury from a minor bump against a train door is low. Keep an eye on the red spot on your arm, and if you have any concerns or if symptoms develop, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. Lastly, try to engage in activities that help you relax and distract from anxious thoughts, as this can be beneficial for your overall mental health.

Similar Q&A

Head Injury from Door Frame: What to Watch For and Signs of Concern

Hello, doctor. Earlier, I accidentally bumped the upper right side of my head against a door frame because I didn't pay attention to its height. My mom saw it and said it was quite a hard hit, but currently, there are no visible injuries, just some pain at the site of the im...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
The likelihood of a brain hemorrhage is low, but if there are persistent symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or altered consciousness, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Head Injury from Door Frame: Is It Serious or Just a Cold?

Two days ago, I was running and jumping indoors at my grandmother's house and bumped my head against the door frame on the upper right side. I currently have no nasal discharge or other symptoms, but I have been experiencing phlegm. I found online that there are cases of men...

Dr. Peng Xianwen reply Surgery
Hello Yi, Typically, the chances are low (as in the case of a ruptured meninges). It is advisable to seek medical attention if you continue to experience discomfort and have concerns. Director Peng Hsien-Wen, Department of Surgery, Nantou Hospital

Head Injury from Rolling Door: Symptoms and Next Steps

Hello, doctor. Yesterday, I accidentally bumped into a rolling shutter door that was just about to rise while I was bending down. At the moment of impact, I felt nauseous once and experienced a temporary loss of vision twice. I already had some issues with a mild headache in the ...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, Miss: You mentioned that "I can't really turn my head, and washing my hair while bending over causes severe pain. The right side also hurts a lot while sleeping, but it feels a bit better after waking up." Your symptoms may suggest inflammation of the cervic...

Post-Car Accident Health Concerns: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello Dr. Liao, I was rear-ended in a car accident on September 9th. At the time, I only felt pain in my coccyx. After being taken to the hospital, an X-ray showed that I had a contusion of the coccyx and lower back, and I was prescribed acetaminophen. However, I later noticed sw...

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine
Hello, based on your description and concerns: 1. Given the symptoms mentioned, is it necessary to see a doctor? If so, which specialty should I consult? --> If you still feel unwell, it is advisable to have your primary care physician evaluate your condition first, and then...