[45F] Experiencing severe pain, swelling, and weakness in left arm

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can also cause nodules or knots under the skin, usually around the affected joints.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and slow the progression of the disease, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

• Gout: This is a type of arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the bloodstream, resulting in extreme joint pain and swelling. It usually affects one joint at a time, most commonly the big toe.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to control pain and reduce uric acid levels.

• Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. It can also cause knots or lumps under the skin, known as trigger points.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, exercise, stress management techniques, and healthy lifestyle habits.

• 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.

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

Please note that these are possibilities based on your symptoms and not a definitive diagnosis. You should consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

While waiting for your appointment with a healthcare professional, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

1. Rest: Try to avoid using your affected arm as much as possible to allow it to heal.
2. Ice: Apply an ice pack to your affected joints for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
3. Elevate: If possible, try to elevate your affected arm to help reduce swelling.
4. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce pain and swelling.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain and swelling
• Inability to move your arm
• Signs of an infection, such as redness, warmth, or fever
• Symptoms that do not improve with home treatment or get worse over time

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different approaches. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.