What Causes Painful And Swollen Wrist And Hand?

I have pain and swelling in my right wrist and back of my hand. This is the second time this has happened. Both times were preceded by infection elsewhere in my body. Both events started the same way. I wake up with mild pain which progresses to very painful over a few days. Even bumping my fingers is excruciating. The last time I was given six days of prednisone and it cleared up. Any idea what is causing this?