Moms use their hands a lot, so any pain or unusual sensations in this limb can cause a lot of unwanted drama and down time. Hand pain has numerous causes, some of which are potentially life-threatening, such as hand pain related to high cholesterol, according to MedlinePlus and Family Doctor. Identifying causes can help you and your doctor treat your hand pain as quickly as possible.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful and debilitating disorder than can affect one or both hands and wrists, according to Family Doctor. Moms who spend a lot of time typing or doing other repetitive activities with their hands are more at risk of developing this condition, which can impair the ability to perform ordinary tasks.
Injury to a Nerve
If your hand pain includes numbness and tingling, you may have damaged one or more nerves, according to MedlinePlus. Also, tobacco and alcohol users with hand pain or a sense of it “falling asleep” are especially susceptible to nerve damage in this part of the body.
Lack of Blood Supply
Numbness, tingling and pain in the hand could also be caused by a lack of blood supply, according to MedlinePlus. Plaque buildup in the arteries because of too much cholesterol or frostbite may cause such symptoms and potentially damage the affected limb.
Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts, which are common noncancerous growths, can cause unwanted hand pain, according to Family Doctor. Such cysts usually form around the finger or wrist joints. If the related pain becomes severe or the cysts grow rapidly, you should seek a doctor’s assistance.
Rheumatoid Arthritis or Gout
If your pain is accompanied by swollen or tender joints, you might be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, according to Family Doctor. This condition is caused through an inflammation of the joints and can affect limbs other than the hands. However, gout can cause similar symptoms and is actually an infection of the affected areas. If you suspect either condition might be causing your hand pain, take over-the-counter pain relievers and also schedule a doctor’s appointment.
Infections
If you recently injured, sprained or sustained cuts in the area and now suffer from pain and redness, you likely have an infection, according to Family Doctor. Such conditions usually require medical attention and antibiotic treatments, especially if you notice streaking or other unusual color formations on the skin surrounding the initial wound.
Photo Credit
- woman’s hands 2 image by Mikhail Malyshev from Fotolia.com
