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
Seek urgent or emergency care if the fingers become numb, pale, blue, cold, or difficult to move.
Also get emergency help for an open wound over the fracture, exposed bone, severe deformity, or uncontrolled bleeding.
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
Arrange prompt assessment after a wrist injury if you have pain or tenderness at the base of the thumb, even if swelling is mild or you can still move the wrist.
A scaphoid fracture may be present despite a normal-looking wrist.
Contact the treating service promptly if:
Pain or swelling is getting worse rather than settling
A cast becomes wet, cracked, loose, or painfully tight
Skin around the cast becomes sore or develops an unpleasant smell
Pain returns when activity increases
Symptoms continue after the expected follow-up period
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
If initial X-rays were normal but thumb-side pain continues, seek follow-up as advised.
Further imaging or repeat examination may be needed.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Navicular fracture of the wrist. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.