[22M] Experiencing hand redness, pain, and swelling with activity

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs the length of the arm, goes through a passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, and ends in the hand. Symptoms often include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and arm, which can be worse with activity.

  • Treatment typically involves wrist splinting, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain and damage throughout your body. The joint damage that RA causes usually happens on both sides of your body. So if a joint is affected in one of your arms or legs, the same joint in the other arm or leg will probably be affected, too.

  • Treatment often involves medications to reduce inflammation in your joints in order to relieve pain and prevent or slow joint damage.

• Raynaud's disease: This is a condition that causes some areas of your body — such as your fingers — to feel numb and cool in response to cold temperatures or stress. In Raynaud's disease, smaller arteries that supply blood to your skin narrow, limiting blood circulation to affected areas.

  • Treatment typically involves avoiding triggers such as cold temperatures and stress. In severe cases, medications may be needed.

What you can do

You should definitely see a doctor about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Avoid activities that worsen your symptoms.
2. Apply warm compresses to your hands to help improve blood flow.
3. Try over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage your pain.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your pain becomes severe or unmanageable
• If you notice any deformity in your hands or fingers
• If you develop a fever or other signs of infection

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.