Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome often begin gradually and may worsen over time, particularly during activities that involve wrist flexion. The most common symptoms include numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the affected hand.
Numbness and Tingling
These sensations typically affect the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. Many people describe it as a “pins and needles” feeling, often occurring at night or upon waking.
Hand Pain
Pain may be localised to the wrist or radiate up the forearm. It often worsens with activities like holding a phone, driving, or reading a book.
Weakness
People may experience difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks. Items may slip from the hand, or actions such as buttoning clothes may become challenging.
Swelling or Burning Sensations
Although actual swelling may not be present, the hand can feel swollen or hot, especially at night.
Night-time Symptoms
Nocturnal symptoms are very common. Many individuals wake during the night with hand discomfort and must shake or flex their wrist to relieve it.
Progression
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If left untreated, symptoms can become constant. In severe cases, the muscles at the base of the thumb (thenar muscles) may begin to waste away (atrophy), leading to permanent hand dysfunction.
Recognising symptoms early can prevent long-term nerve damage and reduce the need for surgical intervention.
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