Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Pain, Numbness And Swelling In The Hand?
Question: My son is 33. He had an issue yesterday where he got confused and fell asleep in his truck. He thinks he was sleeping for a couple of hours. When he woke he had lost partial use of his right hand. He cannot lift his hand up when when the palm is facing down but can lift is hand with palm facing up. There is minor numbness and minor swelling.
Brief Answer:
Mri required if symptoms persist
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
This is but unusual and may indicate certain neurological disorders. He may have been laying on his arm and this would explain symptoms but it would last for less than 12 hours. If this lasts more than 24.hours then he should see neurologist and do head MRI scan and neurography. He should also take vitamin d and apply warm compresses on arm. Wish you good health. Regards
Mri required if symptoms persist
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
This is but unusual and may indicate certain neurological disorders. He may have been laying on his arm and this would explain symptoms but it would last for less than 12 hours. If this lasts more than 24.hours then he should see neurologist and do head MRI scan and neurography. He should also take vitamin d and apply warm compresses on arm. Wish you good health. Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
We think it is Saturday night Paulsy. Are you familiar?
Brief Answer:
yes
Detailed Answer:
Hi.
Yes, this is caused by compression of radial nerve and usually this improves within few hours or days. However, it may last in some cases even for more weeks. In his case, it is bit concerning that he had confusion period and sleepiness prior to arm symptoms. This may be sign of some demyelinating nerve disorders so if he still has symptoms he should do MRI and neurography
yes
Detailed Answer:
Hi.
Yes, this is caused by compression of radial nerve and usually this improves within few hours or days. However, it may last in some cases even for more weeks. In his case, it is bit concerning that he had confusion period and sleepiness prior to arm symptoms. This may be sign of some demyelinating nerve disorders so if he still has symptoms he should do MRI and neurography
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Thank you for your follow-up. We are sure that the issue is "Saturday Night Paulsy". There has been maybe 30% improvement since we last spoke. I am told that the nerves heal very slowly. Can you advise in home therapy?
Brief Answer:
see next
Detailed Answer:
He should take Vitamin D and B12, and Calcium supplements. Also, he should avoid alcohol, long exposure to sunlight and emotional stress. Doing passive and active hand exercises is beneficial as well. I am sure it will recover soon.
see next
Detailed Answer:
He should take Vitamin D and B12, and Calcium supplements. Also, he should avoid alcohol, long exposure to sunlight and emotional stress. Doing passive and active hand exercises is beneficial as well. I am sure it will recover soon.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
