1. What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the wrist. This nerve compression can lead to pain, numbness, or tingling in the hand and fingers.
2. What are the common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Symptoms often include numbness, tingling, or burning in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. Some people also experience wrist pain, weakness, or difficulty gripping objects.
3. What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by repetitive hand movements, prolonged wrist bending, swelling in the wrist, or conditions such as pregnancy, arthritis, or diabetes. In some cases, no clear cause is identified.
4. Is carpal tunnel syndrome serious?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is usually not dangerous, but if left untreated, it can lead to ongoing symptoms and, in severe cases, permanent nerve damage and hand weakness.
5. How is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?
A GP usually diagnoses carpal tunnel syndrome based on symptoms, examination of the hand and wrist, and sometimes nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function.
6. How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated?
Treatment may include wrist splinting, activity modification, pain relief, and steroid injections. In more severe cases, surgery may be considered to relieve pressure on the nerve.
7. Can carpal tunnel syndrome improve on its own?
Mild symptoms may improve with rest, splinting, and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms. However, persistent or worsening symptoms usually require medical assessment.
8. Does carpal tunnel syndrome affect both hands?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can affect one or both hands. When both hands are affected, symptoms may be worse in one hand than the other.
9. Can carpal tunnel syndrome be prevented?
Maintaining good hand and wrist posture, taking regular breaks from repetitive activities, and using ergonomic equipment may help reduce the risk or severity of symptoms.
10. When should I see a GP about carpal tunnel syndrome?
See a GP if symptoms are persistent, worsening, interfering with daily activities, or causing hand weakness or numbness that does not improve.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is general health information only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
