[40F] Experiencing nighttime wrist pain and numbness

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, a possible diagnosis is:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS): This condition occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm into the palm of your hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. Symptoms often include pain, numbness, and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, especially at night. The knot on your wrist could be a ganglion cyst, which can sometimes press on nerves and exacerbate symptoms.

  • Treatment: Initial treatments often include wrist splints, especially at night, and anti-inflammatory medications. If symptoms persist, a doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections or surgery to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

• Ganglion Cyst: These are noncancerous lumps that most commonly develop along the tendons or joints of your wrists or hands. They can cause pain or discomfort, especially if they press on a nerve.

  • Treatment: Ganglion cysts can sometimes resolve on their own. If they cause significant pain or interfere with joint movement, a doctor may recommend aspiration (draining the fluid) or surgical removal.

• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition involves compression of nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and the first rib, which can cause pain in the neck and shoulder and numbness in the fingers.

  • Treatment: Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve the compression.

What you can do

While you should consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to help manage your symptoms:

1. Wrist Splints: Wearing a wrist splint at night can help keep your wrist in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
2. Avoid Repetitive Movements: Try to avoid activities that require repetitive wrist movements, which can exacerbate symptoms.
3. Cold Packs: Applying a cold pack to your wrist can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
4. Elevate Your Hand: Elevating your hand, especially at night, can help reduce swelling.
5. Smoking Cessation: Smoking can affect blood flow and nerve health. Consider seeking help to quit smoking.
6. Use MDandMe: You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently include:

• Severe Pain: If the pain becomes unbearable or significantly interferes with your daily activities.
• Persistent Numbness or Weakness: If you experience persistent numbness or weakness in your hand or fingers.
• Changes in Skin Color or Temperature: If you notice changes in the color or temperature of your hand or fingers, which could indicate a more serious issue.
• Bursting Veins in Legs: Given your history of veins bursting in your legs, if you notice similar symptoms in your arms or hands, seek medical attention.

Remember, while this information can help you understand your symptoms better, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.