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 emergency care after an injury if:
Your wrist looks bent or out of place
Bone is visible or there is a deep open wound
Your hand becomes pale, blue, cold, or severely numb
You cannot move your fingers, especially after a major injury
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 same-day medical care for a wrist that becomes red, hot, very swollen, and painful, particularly if you have a fever or feel unwell.
These signs can occur with an infection or severe inflammation.
You should also get prompt advice after a fall if you cannot use the wrist, swelling is substantial, or there is marked tenderness near the base of the thumb.
Make an appointment sooner if numbness, tingling, weakness, or a growing lump develops.
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 lasts more than a week or two despite self-care, keeps returning, disturbs sleep, or limits work and daily activities.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Wrist pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.