The swelling and pain you’re experiencing near your wrist and thumb could potentially be related to a ganglion cyst, often referred to in some regions as a ‘gaanth’. These are non-cancerous lumps that can develop along the tendons or joints of your wrists or hands, and they’re usually filled with a jelly-like fluid. While antibiotics don’t typically treat ganglion cysts because they aren’t caused by infection, any temporary relief you experienced might be coincidental or due to reduced inflammation. It’s worth noting that these cysts can sometimes press on nearby nerves, causing pain, tingling, or weakness in the hand. If surgery isn’t your preference, there are non-surgical approaches such as aspiration, where a doctor uses a needle to drain the fluid, though this can sometimes lead to recurrence. Moreover, wearing a wrist brace might help limit movement that exacerbates pain. Ice application can also be beneficial for reducing swelling and discomfort. However, if these measures do not alleviate the symptoms, it might be necessary to reconsider surgical options despite your hesitations, especially if the cyst is impairing function or causing significant pain. Given that imaging studies haven’t been done yet, seeking a second opinion or considering an ultrasound might provide additional clarity on the diagnosis and guide appropriate management. It’s essential to monitor for any changes, like increased swelling, discoloration, or inability to move the hand, which would necessitate a revisit to your healthcare provider to prevent any complications or worsening of the condition.
What is causing the swelling and pain in my wrist and thumb after taking antibiotics?
I have swelling in my hand near wrist and thumb past some weeks I take antibiotics from doctor I get some relief for sometimes but next day the pain and swelling again happens and I didn't do any x ray or ultrasound scan. Doctor say you have 'gaanth' in your hand and its prevent from operation...but I don't want to do operation
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Doctors' responses
Hello
The swelling and pain near your wrist and thumb could be due to a ganglion cyst (“gaanth”), tendon inflammation, or another soft tissue swelling around the wrist joint. Since you are unable to bend the hand properly toward the wrist and the pain increases with hand use, it suggests that the swelling may be irritating the tendons or nearby nerves.
Antibiotics giving only temporary relief also makes infection less likely unless there is redness, warmth, or fever.
If doctors are recommending an operation, it is probably because the swelling has persisted, is painful, or is interfering with normal hand movement.
An orthopedic doctor or hand surgeon may advise an ultrasound, X-ray, or MRI to confirm the diagnosis before treatment. Some ganglion cysts can be treated with observation or aspiration, but recurrent or painful ones sometimes need surgical removal.
For now, try to avoid activities that strain the wrist and thumb, avoid lifting heavy objects, and use a wrist/thumb splint or brace to reduce movement. Cold compresses for 10–15 minutes a few times daily and pain medicines prescribed by a doctor may help reduce discomfort. Do not repeatedly massage or press the lump. You should seek urgent medical attention if you develop severe swelling, redness, fever, numbness, tingling, weakness of fingers, or sudden worsening pain.
Take care
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