[50F] Experiencing numbness, tingling, and pain in arms and hands

Question

Can anyone help me understand what this is?

Patient Description

A 50-year-old female has been experiencing numbness, tingling, and dull pain in both arms and hands, extending up to the underarms, for about a week. These symptoms are most pronounced upon waking and typically subside after approximately 45 minutes of movement. The numbness is described as a sensation of the hands being asleep, with both the numbness and tingling affecting both sides equally and extending to the fingers. There is no relief found for the numbness, and no specific activities or positions have been identified that worsen the tingling sensation. The patient has no other symptoms, no family history of diabetes or metabolic disorders, no recent injuries or trauma, no pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses, is not taking any medications, and has no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by pressure on the median nerve in your wrist, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in your hand and arm. The symptoms often occur during the night and may wake you up. They can also be provoked by activities that involve repetitive hand or wrist movements.

    • Treatment often involves wrist splinting, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce discomfort. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition occurs when the blood vessels or nerves between your collarbone and your first rib (thoracic outlet) are compressed. This can cause pain in your shoulders and neck and numbness in your fingers.

    • Treatment typically involves physical therapy and pain relief measures. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

  • Peripheral Neuropathy: This results from damage to your peripheral nerves, often causing weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body.

    • Treatment typically involves managing the condition causing your neuropathy, relieving pain, managing complications and restoring function.

Please note that this is not a comprehensive list and other conditions could also explain your symptoms.

What you can do

While waiting for your doctor's appointment, here are some things you can do:

  1. Try to avoid activities that seem to worsen your symptoms.
  2. Over-the-counter pain relievers might help ease the pain.
  3. Regular exercise can sometimes help reduce nerve pain.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms persist or worsen over time.
  • You experience a sudden, severe pain in your arm.
  • You have difficulty moving your arm or hand.
  • You notice a deformity or swelling in your arm or hand.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing, and care recommendations.

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8 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common causes of numbness and tingling in the arms and hands?

Common causes of numbness and tingling in the arms and hands include Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, and Peripheral Neuropathy. These conditions can result from nerve compression, repetitive movements, or nerve damage.

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome diagnosed and treated?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is diagnosed through physical examination, patient history, and sometimes nerve conduction studies. Treatment may involve wrist splinting, avoiding aggravating activities, taking pain relievers, and in severe cases, surgery.

What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and how can it be managed?

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome occurs when nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib are compressed. Management typically includes physical therapy, pain relief measures, and in some cases, surgery to relieve the compression.

What lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?

Lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding repetitive movements, and managing underlying conditions such as diabetes. Pain management strategies and physical therapy may also be beneficial.

1 Comments

Archie#12

8 mo ago

Might be some kind of autoimmune/rheumatoid issue. Did you have inflamation markers checked?

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