[56F] Sudden onset of hand weakness and tingling

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the sudden onset of weakness and tingling in your hand could be due to several possible conditions:

• Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition occurs when nerves that carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord from and to the rest of the body are damaged or diseased. The symptoms can include numbness and tingling in the hands or feet, and muscle weakness. This condition can be caused by various factors, including certain medical conditions, infections, exposure to toxic substances, or vitamin deficiencies.

  • Treatment typically involves managing the condition causing the neuropathy. In some cases, medications or physical therapy may be recommended.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs the length of the arm, goes through a passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, and ends in the hand. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm.

  • Treatment can involve wearing a wrist splint, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce inflammation.

• Pinched Nerve: A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles or tendons. This pressure disrupts the nerve's function, causing pain, tingling, numbness or weakness.

  • Treatment typically involves rest and over-the-counter pain relievers. In some cases, physical therapy or surgery may be recommended.

Please note that these are possible explanations for your symptoms, but only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

While waiting to see a healthcare professional, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

1. Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort. If your symptoms are caused by a pinched nerve or carpal tunnel syndrome, rest can help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.

2. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medicines such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.

3. Heat or cold: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help relieve pain.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days of rest and self-care.
• You experience severe pain.
• You have difficulty moving your arm or hand.
• You experience loss of sensation or a feeling of pins and needles in your arm or hand.

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to get a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment for your symptoms.