Back of hand swollen

[BAKERS DOZEN]

Just driven grandson to his friends house as it is his prom night tonight. Mr BD realised that the back of his right hand had swelled up and was turning black. Is uncomfortable but not painful. Has not banged it as he was a passenger in the car when this happened and can't see a bite mark. Drove to doctors' surgery but he cannot be seen as no doctors or nurses available. NHS Direct just said make an appointment tomorrow with doctor. I'm probably over cautious at the moment as he was diagnosed as diabetic about ten days ago and is now on insulin twice a day which he is just getting used to. Should we leave it until tomorrow or should I take him to hospital. Don't want to waste their time.

[Sqad]

First things first.......no big deal as this is not a life threatening situation, so a GP's appt tomorrow would be in order.

Secondly it sounds as though it is a bruise and if it is, as you say, not associated with trauma, then this will need blood tests to exclude causes of spontaneous bruising.

[BAKERS DOZEN]

Many thanks Sqad. Thought you might be around. Will get him checked out tomorrow.