Symptoms of infection in an arm or leg
Infections can occur without an injury. Symptoms of infection include:
- Increased pain, tenderness, swelling, redness, or warmth around the affected area.
- Red streaks extending from the affected area.
- Drainage of pus from the area.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin.
- Fever.
Minor infections can develop into more serious problems, such as:
- Pus-filled pocket (abscess) under the skin.
- Serious skin infection (cellulitis).
- Joint infection (septic arthritis).
- Bursa infection (septic bursitis).
- Bone infection (osteomyelitis).
- An infection of the entire body (sepsis).
Prompt medical treatment of an infection can prevent serious complications.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: July 28, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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