[56F] Experiencing cold and painful hands with personal stress

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, there 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 weakness in your hand. The knot you mentioned could be a ganglion cyst, which is common in people with carpal tunnel syndrome.

  • Treatment typically involves wearing a wrist splint, especially at night, and making lifestyle changes to reduce strain on your wrist. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.

• Raynaud's Disease: This condition causes some areas of your body, like your fingers, to feel numb and cold in response to cold temperatures or stress. It can cause your hands to turn white or blue and feel cold or numb.

  • Treatment typically involves avoiding cold temperatures and stress, as well as medications to improve blood flow.

• Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues. It can also cause tingling or numbness in your hands and feet.

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

• Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. It can cause fatigue, depression, and sensitivity to cold.

  • Treatment typically involves taking synthetic thyroid hormone.

Please note that these are just possible explanations for your symptoms. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Try to keep your hands warm, especially when it's cold. Wearing gloves and avoiding cold temperatures can help.
2. Try to manage your stress. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga may be helpful.
3. Regular exercise can help improve circulation and reduce symptoms of fibromyalgia and carpal tunnel syndrome.
4. Try to get enough sleep. Fatigue can worsen your symptoms and affect your mood.
5. Consider seeing a healthcare provider. They can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain in your hands
• Sudden weakness or inability to move your hands
• Changes in skin color or temperature in your hands
• Worsening of your symptoms

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare provider.