TMBRA - Rider Board

[Murkona]

Got smacked by a cactus which left few needles in my hand and arm.

Just curious if the pain caused by the needles is from a mild chemical or if it's from the needles being driven to the bone? The needles in the arm didn't create any pain, didn't know they were there, but the needles in the hand definitely did something. My ring and pinky finger are swollen! My guess is that I hit the cactus and the needles actually hit the bone and joint which caused the pain and swelling.

Is there anything I should be aware of with this situation?

Thanks

[Guest]

Is your tetanus shot up to date?

I would guess this is the one that got you: http://mic-ro.com/plants/#Opuntia%20spp.

[The Bike Doc]

Murkona:

Pain and swelling to the area where the cactus needles stuck is concerning. You may be developing an infection. If there iare persisting needles imbedded under the skin, the infection is not likely to clear until the needles are removed. Do seek a medical evaluation, this can be serious. Do make sure you have had a tetanus boster in the last 5 years.

Thanks,
_________________
Paul K. Nolan, MD
AKA: The Bike Doc

[Guest]

Thanks.

The cactus definitely hit the bone and I went to my doctor for a Tet. shot just in case.