Carpal Tunnel Syndrome during Pregnancy
From WikiParenting
Almost thirty percent of all pregnant women develop numbness or tingling in their hands while they are pregnant. It is caused in part by extra fluid accumulation in your body while pregnant. The condition is known as carpal tunnel syndrome, and the discomfort caused by it can range from mild to debilitating.
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[edit] Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
You may experience a tingling or burning sensation in your thumb and first two fingers, and part of your ring finger. You may also have wrist pain, which may cause shooting pain up your arm, possibly as far up as your shoulder. The inside of your wrist may be tender when you push on it. Your hands may be stiff when you wake up in the morning, and your grip may be weak. Symptoms are likely to be the worst at night, after fluid has had a chance to build up; or in the morning if you sleep on your hand.
[edit] Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
A main nerve in your hand, the median nerve, runs through a tunnel of wrist bones – the carpal tunnel. When fluid collects in this tunnel, it compresses the median nerve. The nerve then sends back the wrong information, pain, tingling, and numbness signals. Since pregnant women often have excess fluid in their systems while they are pregnant, they are susceptible to the condition. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome also occurs in people who are not pregnant, especially those who make highly repetitive wrist movements.
[edit] Treatment
The main treatment is the application of a splint to the wrist. Resting the hand and wrist in a neutral position helps the nerve rest. If a wrist brace does not improve the situation, a small shot of cortisone in the wrist may be prescribed. Surgery may be required in the most serious cases.
[edit] Home Care
Here are some tips to help you reduce the discomfort associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
- Rest your hands as much as possible
- Avoid activities that aggravate the nerve – pouring, twisting off caps, typing
- Wear a wrist brace to keep your wrist in a neutral position, at night too if it helps
- Use a wrist rest when you work at the computer
- Sleep with your hands elevated on a pillow – but not under your head
- Take regular breaks and change positions frequently
- Vary your activities
[edit] When to call the doctor
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome sometimes resolves on its own in the months after you deliver your baby, but not always. Consult your physician if the condition is chronic and painful or interferes with your activities.
[edit] More Information
Read more about common discomforts during pregnancy:
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