[42F] With swelling and pain in right hand and foot
Patient Description
A 42-year-old female presents with swelling in the right hand and foot, with the hand being more problematic. The swelling in the hand appeared suddenly about two weeks ago and is characterized by a soft lump over the middle finger, making it difficult to form a fist. The patient reports significant pain with the slightest touch. There is no redness or warmth, but numbness and tingling occur intermittently. Joint pain or stiffness is present in other areas, but there is no fever, fatigue, skin color changes, or rashes. The patient uses tobacco and alcohol often but has not noticed any symptom changes related to their use. Currently taking Advil 250 mg every 4-6 hours with no known medication allergies. No recent injuries, infections, or changes in lupus treatment reported.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on your symptoms and history of lupus, here are some possibilities:
-
Lupus Flare-Up: Lupus can cause inflammation and swelling in joints, leading to pain and difficulty moving. The lump and swelling in your hand could be related to this.
- Treatment typically involves anti-inflammatory medications and sometimes corticosteroids to manage flares.
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Tendonitis or Bursitis: Inflammation of the tendons or bursae (fluid-filled sacs) in the hand can cause swelling and pain.
- Treatment often includes rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications.
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand, often due to repetitive use.
- Treatment may involve wrist splints, rest, and sometimes physical therapy.
What you can do
- Rest and Protect: Try to rest your hand and avoid activities that worsen the pain. Consider using a brace or splint to support your hand.
- Ice and Elevate: Apply ice to the swollen area for 15-20 minutes every few hours and keep your hand elevated to reduce swelling.
- Pain Relief: Continue taking Advil as directed, but consult a healthcare provider if the pain persists or worsens.
- Track Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track any changes, and share this information with your healthcare provider.
What you should look out for
- Seek Medical Attention: If the swelling increases, you develop a fever, or the pain becomes unbearable, contact a healthcare provider.
- Monitor for New Symptoms: Watch for any new symptoms like redness, warmth, or changes in skin color, which could indicate an infection or other issue.
Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.
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2 mo ago