What Might Cause Swelling And Stiffness In The Hands And Fingers While Having Diabetes And Chronic Kidney Disease?

Posted on Fri, 4 May 2018

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

Fri, 4 May 2018 Answered on

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I am 30 years old, and have been Type 1 Diabetic for 27 years, Ive always been a very brittle diabetic with blood glucose fluctuating from 50 all the way past 600 on occasion. Now, I recently discovered a few years ago that I also have developed Chronic Kidney Disease as well, and I'm in stage 3 of renal failure/disease. Now, my question is during these past few weeks I've been having sharp pains in my fingers & hands when I try to make a tight fist or pick up anything that's too heavy. My muscles and joints in my hands feel incredibly swollen and stiff. Mainly both my index fingers on both hands. I'm worried it's my circulation being effected. I already have neuropathy pains in my feet. So, do u think that's what it is or are there other more likely posibilities? And if so, what else could it be?

Answered by Dr. Dr. (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
It may be due to peripheral neuropathy. See detailed answer.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

I can understand your concern. Causes of stiff joints with pain are gout, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, osteoarthritis, trauma, peripheral neuropathy. Most of the time peripheral neuropathy present with tingling sensation, numbness, burning sensations. Let me know please whether do you have these symptoms more in morning, relieve after movements? Kindly follow up with detailed history.

I'd suggest you do RA factor, CRP, ESR, Anti CCP, blood uric acid level, x ray of affected joints, complete blood count to rule out other posibilities. Kindly follow up with reports.

As your sugar is fluctuating, I'd suggest you to consult with Diabetologist and adjust the dose. This will prevent further progression of peripheral neuropathy, kidney disease and other diabetic complications. Strictly monitor sugar level at least thrice a day. Take proper diet as per diet chart after consultation with dietician. Do HbA1c, ophthalmic examination if not done earlier. Continue all medications as advised. You can take tab. etoricoxib 60 mg for unbearable pain. As these are the prescription medications, kindly consult with your doctor. Do regular exercises at least 30 minutes a day. I think this will clarify your concern. Take care.

Regards,
Dr. Shyam Kale
Family and General physician.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T