How do you cure swollen thumb?

Treating a swollen thumb depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatments for different causes of thumb swelling:

1. Sprains and Strains:

- Rest your thumb by avoiding activities that aggravate the swelling.

- Ice the swollen area for 15-20 minutes several times a day.

- Compression with a thumb brace or wrap can help reduce swelling.

- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), may help manage pain and swelling.

2. Infection (Cellulitis):

- Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor are necessary to treat the bacterial infection.

- Keep the affected area clean and covered with a bandage.

- Elevate your hand above your heart as much as possible to help reduce swelling.

3. Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis):

- Splints or braces may help rest the joint and reduce pain and swelling.

- Physical therapy can help maintain joint flexibility and strength.

- Medications prescribed by a doctor, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), can help manage pain and inflammation.

4. Tendonitis (De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Trigger Finger):

- Immobilization with a splint or brace can help reduce inflammation and pain.

- Physical therapy exercises may help improve flexibility and strength.

- In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.

5. Gout:

- Anti-inflammatory medications, such as NSAIDs or corticosteroids, prescribed by a doctor can help reduce swelling and pain.

- Avoiding foods that trigger gout attacks, such as red meat, alcohol, and certain seafood, is essential.

- Maintaining proper hydration can also help prevent gout attacks.

If the swelling doesn't improve after a few days, the pain is severe, or you notice other concerning symptoms like fever or skin discoloration, it's essential to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. They may recommend further tests, such as X-rays, MRI scans, or blood tests, to determine the cause of the swelling and provide the most appropriate treatment plan.