[43M] Experiencing throbbing arm pain and unilateral hand swelling

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possible conditions:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by pressure on the median nerve in your wrist, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and arm. The condition is often associated with repetitive movements or conditions like diabetes, thyroid disease, or rheumatoid arthritis.

  • Treatment typically involves wrist splinting, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, and physical therapy. Severe cases may require corticosteroid injections or surgery.

• Tendonitis: This is inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone. It can cause pain and tenderness just outside a joint. While tendonitis can occur in any of your tendons, it's most common around your shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees and heels.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, pain relievers, and in some cases, surgery.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many joints, including those in the hands and feet. It involves more than just your joints and can cause swelling, pain, and stiffness.

  • Treatment typically involves medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

What you can do

Please seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms could be indicative of a serious condition that requires treatment. In the meantime, try to rest and avoid any activities that may exacerbate the pain and swelling.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:

• Severe pain or swelling
• An inability to move or use the joint
• Joint deformity
• Signs of an infection, including redness, warmth and tenderness in the affected area, or a fever over 100 F (37.8 C)

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.