Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services or go to an emergency department if:
A finger or part of the hand has been cut off
Bleeding is heavy or does not stop with firm pressure
The hand becomes cold, pale, or blue
You suddenly cannot move or feel the hand, especially after injury
Hand or arm discomfort occurs with chest pressure, breathlessness, sweating, or nausea
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent same-day care after a significant injury if the hand looks bent or misshapen, swelling is severe, or you cannot use it normally.
You should also get same-day advice for a deep cut, puncture, human or animal bite, or a wound containing dirt or another object.
A hot, red, rapidly swelling hand or finger needs prompt assessment, particularly if you have a fever, feel unwell, or have difficulty bending or straightening a finger.
And for anyone, someone who:
has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if pain is worsening, keeps returning, affects sleep or normal activities, or has not improved after about two weeks of self-care.
Arrange an earlier review if numbness, weakness, persistent swelling, or morning stiffness develops.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hand pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.