What's up with my arm? Do I have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Question

For the last two weeks or so, I've been having this numb feeling at the top of my right my arm. It used to be just if I raised it above my head (I first noticed this when I was in bed; I usually sleep with my arms up, wrapped around my pillow), but 2 days ago it started doing it when they were just normal. The arm feels numb, tingly, and kind of tight. Recently, my fingers started feeling kind of tingly, too. About the same time it started (I think it started before this, but I'm not certain), I had a blood test. Could that have anything to do with it? Oh, and I spend a lot of my time on my laptop. What do you think is wrong with me?

Also, I am going to the doctor, just not till Wednesday, because I've a lot going on tomorrow and Tuesday.

Thank you!

Answer 1

Carpal tunnel syndrome is often the result of a combination of factors that increase pressure on the median nerve and tendons in the carpal tunnel, rather than a problem with the nerve itself. Most likely the disorder is due to a congenital predisposition - the carpal tunnel is simply smaller in some people than in others. Other contributing factors include trauma or injury to the wrist that cause swelling, such as sprain or fracture; overactivity of the pituitary gland; hypothyroidism; rheumatoid arthritis; mechanical problems in the wrist joint; work stress; repeated use of vibrating hand tools; fluid retention during pregnancy or menopause; or the development of a cyst or tumor in the canal. In some cases no cause can be identified.

There is little clinical data to prove whether repetitive and forceful movements of the hand and wrist during work or leisure activities can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Repeated motions performed in the course of normal work or other daily activities can result in repetitive motion disorders such as bursitis and tendonitis. Writer's cramp - a condition in which a lack of fine motor skill coordination and ache and pressure in the fingers, wrist, or forearm is brought on by repetitive activity - is not a symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome.

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I had the surgery, and although it wasn't fun, it sure has made my life a lot better. By the way, I used to sleep with my arms in that same position, and it really helps not to. I also switched to sea salt, and less salt overall, and that helped with the swelling.

Answer 2

It could be carpel tunnel but it's best to have your doctor check it out for sure. If it is, you'll probably get a wrist brace, and will have to limit your time on the computer until your wrist heals. In the worst case scenario, you'll have to get surgery.

Answer 3

Yes, it could be carpal tunnel as numbness and tingling are some of the symptoms.