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Warning-sign checks

Olecranon bursitis: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Go to emergency care if elbow redness or swelling is accompanied by severe whole-body illness, such as confusion, fainting, marked drowsiness, breathing difficulty, or rapidly worsening symptoms.

    These can be signs of a serious infection affecting the body.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Get same-day medical help if the area becomes increasingly red, hot, or painful; redness is spreading; pus or cloudy fluid drains from the skin; or you develop a fever or chills.

    These symptoms can indicate infection.

    Seek prompt assessment after a significant injury if you cannot move the elbow normally, the joint looks deformed, or you develop numbness, weakness, a cold hand, or severe pain.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if the swelling is not improving, keeps returning, interferes with movement or sleep, or has no clear cause.

    You should also seek advice if you have gout, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, a weakened immune system, or take medicines that suppress immunity.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Olecranon bursitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.