However, the scientific evidence is conflicting and these factors haven't been established as direct causes of carpal tunnel syndrome. Working with vibrating tools or on an assembly line that requires prolonged or repetitive flexing of the wrist may create harmful pressure on the median nerve or worsen existing nerve damage, especially if the work is done in a cold environment. Certain conditions, such as menopause, thyroid disorders, kidney failure and lymphedema, may increase the chances of carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome associated with pregnancy generally gets better on its own after pregnancy. This is common during pregnancy and menopause. Fluid retention may increase the pressure within the carpal tunnel, irritating the median nerve. Being obese is a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome. Some studies have shown a link between carpal tunnel syndrome and the use of anastrozole (Arimidex), a drug used to treat breast cancer. Rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions that have an inflammatory component can affect the lining around the tendons in the wrist and put pressure on the median nerve. Some chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, increase the risk of nerve damage, including damage to the median nerve. Women who have carpal tunnel syndrome may also have smaller carpal tunnels than women who don't have the condition.
This may be because the carpal tunnel area is relatively smaller in women than in men. Carpal tunnel syndrome is generally more common in women. People who have smaller carpal tunnels may be more likely to have carpal tunnel syndrome. A wrist fracture or dislocation, or arthritis that deforms the small bones in the wrist, can alter the space within the carpal tunnel and put pressure on the median nerve.
Although they may not directly cause carpal tunnel syndrome, they may increase the risk of irritation or damage to the median nerve. Permanent nerve and muscle damage can occur without treatment.Ī number of factors have been associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. See your health care provider if you have signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome that interfere with your normal activities and sleep patterns. This may be due to the numbness in the hand or weakness of the thumb's pinching muscles, which are also controlled by the median nerve. You may experience weakness in the hand and drop objects. The numb feeling may become constant over time. Many people "shake out" their hands to try to relieve their symptoms. These symptoms often occur while holding a steering wheel, phone or newspaper, or may wake you from sleep. The sensation may travel from the wrist up the arm. You might feel a sensation like an electric shock in these fingers. Usually the thumb and index, middle or ring fingers are affected, but not the little finger.
You may notice tingling and numbness in the fingers or hand. Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (RNICU)Ĭarpal tunnel syndrome symptoms usually start gradually and include:.Hospitalists & Internal Medicine Physicians.
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