[55F] With worsening wrist and thumb pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, a possible diagnosis for your symptoms could be:

• De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: This condition involves inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. It can cause pain and swelling near the base of your thumb, making it difficult to move your thumb and wrist. The pain may worsen with activities that involve grasping or pinching.

  • Treatment: Typically includes rest, splinting the thumb and wrist, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Osteoarthritis: This is a common form of arthritis that can affect the joints in your wrist and thumb, leading to pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion.

  • Treatment: Involves pain management with medications, physical therapy, and sometimes joint injections. In advanced cases, surgery may be considered.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Although less likely given the absence of numbness or tingling, this condition can cause pain in the wrist and thumb area due to compression of the median nerve.

  • Treatment: Includes wrist splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes corticosteroid injections or surgery.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to help manage your symptoms:

1. Rest and Immobilize: Try to rest your wrist and thumb as much as possible. You can use a splint or brace to immobilize the area and prevent further strain.
2. Ice and Elevate: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and pain. Elevate your wrist to help reduce swelling.
3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Continue using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen, as long as they are not contraindicated for you.
4. Avoid Aggravating Activities: Try to avoid activities that worsen the pain, such as twisting or stretching your wrist and thumb.
5. Use MDandMe: You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Pain: If the pain becomes unbearable or significantly worsens.
• Increased Swelling or Redness: If the swelling or redness around the affected area increases.
• Fever or Chills: If you develop a fever or chills, which could indicate an infection.
• Numbness or Tingling: If you start experiencing numbness or tingling in your thumb or wrist.

Remember, while this advice can help manage your symptoms, it is not a substitute for professional medical care. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.