What Causes Sudden Onset Of Pain And Swelling In Hands?

Posted on Tue, 29 Dec 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 29 Dec 2015 Answered on

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have sudden onset and painful swelling in both hands, fingers and forearms. My physician said it is most likely carpal tunnel. Does CP often or ever include sudden onset, including rapid bilateral involvement? I am 29 y/o Female, no recent trauma to either hand. Do you recommend a differential diagnosis? I am also approx 50 lbs overweight.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (39 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Can be due to carpal tunnel.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
The sudden onset of pain and swelling can happen due to carpal tunnel syndrome. Being obese or diabetic are predisposing factors.
Other differential diagnosis includes polyneuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. It can happen due to pregnancy, hormonal changes or excessive use of keyboards also. It is best to consult an orthopedician for a proper examination.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL XXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar