What is the swelling and pain in my hand near the wrist and thumb, and how can I prevent surgery? - #30120
I have swelling in my hand near wrist and thumb..I can't hold my fingers towards wrist and pain increases more and more .. Doctors take medicine relief pain for sometimes and then start pain again and swelling increases again ..in the doctor says in your hand have 'gaanth '...and say for do operation...I did not do any x ray or ultrasound...suggest me what I do prevent operation of this ..is this a which type of swelling and pain happens in my hand ..never any injury happens in my hand before not bite any insects...it's happens suddenly and increases day by day also pain increases
How long have you been experiencing the swelling and pain?:
- 1-4 weeksHow would you describe the intensity of your pain?:
- Moderate — affects daily tasksHave you noticed any specific activities that worsen the pain?:
- Using my hand for tasksIs there any numbness or tingling in your fingers?:
- OccasionallyHave you tried any treatments for the pain and swelling?:
- Home remediesDo you have any other health conditions that could affect your hand?:
- No, I'm generally healthyHave you experienced swelling or pain in any other joints?:
- No, only in my handDo you have a family history of joint issues or autoimmune conditions?:
- No, none100% Anonymously
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Doctors' responses
Hello
The swelling near your wrist and thumb may be a ganglion cyst (“gaanth”), tendon sheath swelling, or inflammation around the wrist joint. A ganglion cyst is a common fluid-filled swelling that can appear suddenly and gradually become painful, especially while using the hand. The occasional tingling suggests the swelling may be pressing on a nearby nerve. Since you have no injury history and the swelling keeps returning after medicines, it is important to properly diagnose it before deciding about surgery.
You should first get an ultrasound or X-ray of the wrist and hand, and sometimes an MRI if needed. Without imaging, it is difficult to know the exact type of swelling. Many wrist swellings do not immediately need surgery. Some improve with rest, wrist/thumb splints, anti-inflammatory medicines, physiotherapy, or aspiration of the cyst by a doctor. Avoid repeatedly pressing, massaging, or trying to burst the swelling yourself, as this can worsen inflammation or cause infection.
To help reduce pain and possibly avoid surgery, limit heavy hand work, avoid repetitive thumb movements, use a thumb-spica or wrist brace, and apply cold compresses for 10–15 minutes several times a day. If the swelling keeps increasing, causes severe pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty moving the fingers, then surgical removal may become the best option to prevent long-term problems. An orthopedic or hand surgeon can guide you after imaging tests are done.
Thank you
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