[47F] Experiencing severe wrist pain with insect bites

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Insect Bites: The hard bumps you described could be insect bites. Some people may have a more severe reaction to bites, which can cause pain, especially if the bite is in a sensitive area like the wrist.

  • Treatment typically involves cleaning the area, avoiding scratching, and using over-the-counter treatments to reduce itching and inflammation. If the bites become infected (red, swollen, warm, or pus-filled), you should see a healthcare professional.

• Sprain or Strain: Even without a specific injury, repetitive movements or overuse can cause a sprain (stretch or tear of a ligament) or strain (injury to a muscle or tendon). Pain, especially with movement, is a common symptom.

  • Treatment usually includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, is compressed or irritated. However, you did not report numbness or tingling, which are common symptoms of this condition.

  • Treatment can range from wrist splinting and avoiding certain activities to medications and surgery in severe cases.

What you can do

While waiting for your appointment with a healthcare professional, you can try the following to help manage your symptoms:

1. Apply a cold pack to your wrist for 15 minutes at a time to help reduce inflammation and numb the area.
2. Try to rest your wrist as much as possible and avoid activities that make your pain worse.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help with the pain.
4. If the bites are itchy, try not to scratch them. Over-the-counter creams or ointments may help with itching.

What you should look out for

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

• Increasing pain, redness, swelling, or warmth around the bites
• Pus or other signs of infection at the bite sites
• Fever or chills
• Increasing wrist pain or swelling
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand or fingers

Remember, this advice is intended to be helpful and informative, but it's not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.