What does it mean if my finger is numb?
In the case of a numb finger, a distinction must be made as to whether the finger is numb without visible changes or whether damage was associated with the numbness. What is certain is that the sensitive nerves in the finger no longer function properly. In some cases, the pinching of the nerves that innervate (supply) the finger can be the reason for a numb finger.
Polyneuropathies (nerve disease due to diabetes mellitus) are also associated with numbness in the fingers. In connection with bruising, numb fingers are rather unusual. Here it should be clarified whether the nerve could be damaged by possible violent influences. It is also possible that the bruise presses on the nerve and thus limits the perception of touch.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a bruise on the finger is quickly made. Important here is the medical history, i.e. the situation that led to the bruise. Depending on the situation, an assessment must be made as to whether other examinations of the finger with regard to fractures must be carried out. However, if it is only a bruise, palpation and observation of the finger is sufficient to make the diagnosis. If there are other symptoms, such as persistent pain, fever or a strong heat, you should consult a doctor.
What should you do if you have a bruise on your finger?
No special therapy is required for bruising on the finger. To reduce the symptoms, cooling the finger can help, especially immediately after the vein bursts. This causes the vessels to contract due to the cold and less blood to escape from the vein.
In addition, it can help to avoid putting too much strain on the finger and avoid excessive finger movements. It is not recommended to prick the bruise on the finger. If only the fingernail is affected, there may be a strong feeling of pressure because the blood cannot expand under the nail.
Here the pressure is certainly reduced by piercing the nail. On the rest of the finger, however, this problem does not exist and the bruise is usually not a big problem. Instead, piercing the bruise with non-sterile material is a potential route of infection and is always associated with a certain risk. It is therefore advisable to avoid piercing the bruise.
Duration of bruising on the finger
The duration of the bruise is usually one to two weeks. During this time a discoloration of the bruise is detected. This is caused by the breakdown of haem in the haemoglobin contained in the blood.
The bruise turns greenish after about three days. One speaks now of biliverdin. Biliverdin is the next stage in the breakdown of heme.
The green biliverdin is then metabolised to bilirubin after about 4 days and a characteristic orange colour appears. After a few days the now orange bruise should have completely receded. The bilirubin is transported via the bloodstream to the liver and excreted through the bile.
If the finger is darkly discoloured over a longer period of time (more than 2-3 weeks), a doctor should be consulted. A doctor should also be consulted if the pain persists without strain or numbness.
