[47F] With progressive left hand pain and numbness

What might be happening

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

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: 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 include pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm, and it can lead to muscle weakness and difficulty grasping objects.

  • Treatment: Wearing a wrist splint, especially at night, can help relieve symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgery might be necessary.

• Peripheral Neuropathy: This is a result of damage to the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord (peripheral nerves) and often causes weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in the hands and feet. It can be caused by infections, injuries, metabolic problems, and exposure to toxins.

  • Treatment: Managing underlying conditions, pain relief medications, and physical therapy can help manage symptoms.

• Ulnar Nerve Entrapment: This condition occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed, often at the elbow or wrist, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers, particularly the ring and little fingers.

  • Treatment: Avoiding activities that aggravate the symptoms, using elbow pads, and in some cases, surgery to relieve the pressure on the nerve.

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): This is a form of chronic pain that usually affects an arm or a leg. CRPS typically develops after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. The pain is out of proportion to the severity of the initial injury.

  • Treatment: Pain relievers, physical therapy, and sometimes nerve blocks or other interventions.

What you can do

While you should definitely consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take in the meantime:

1. Rest and Immobilize: Try to rest your hand and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Using a wrist splint or brace can help immobilize the area and reduce symptoms.
2. Apply Ice: Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation and pain.
3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
4. Gentle Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve function and reduce symptoms. A physical therapist can guide you on the appropriate exercises.
5. Ergonomic Adjustments: Make ergonomic adjustments to your workspace to reduce strain on your hand and wrist.

What you should look out for

You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe or worsening pain: If your pain becomes more severe or does not improve with rest and over-the-counter pain relief.
• Loss of function: If you continue to lose function in your hand or if the weakness progresses.
• Changes in color or temperature: If you notice any changes in the color or temperature of your hand or fingers, such as them turning white, blue, or red.
• Signs of infection: If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or fever.

Remember, while these suggestions can help manage your symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.