Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects the hands and wrists. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed or irritated at the wrist.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that houses this nerve, along with several tendons. When the median nerve is compressed, it can lead to a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

1. Numbness and Tingling

One of the most common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome is numbness and tingling in the hands and fingers. This sensation is often described as pins and needles and typically affects the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.

The numbness and tingling may come and go initially but can become constant as the condition progresses.

2. Pain and Discomfort

In addition to numbness and tingling, carpal tunnel syndrome can also cause pain and discomfort in the affected hand and wrist. The pain is often described as a dull ache or a sharp, shooting pain that radiates up the forearm.

The discomfort may worsen during activities that involve gripping or repetitive hand movements.

3. Weakness and Muscle Atrophy

If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to weakness in the hand and fingers. This weakness may make it difficult to grasp objects or perform tasks that require fine motor skills.

Over time, muscle atrophy, or a decrease in muscle mass, may also occur, leading to a loss of strength and dexterity in the affected hand.

4. Hand and Finger Stiffness

Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause stiffness in the hand and fingers, making it challenging to fully flex or extend them. The stiffness is more prominent in the morning or after periods of inactivity and may improve with movement.

However, as the condition progresses, the stiffness can become more persistent and affect daily activities.

5. Swelling and Inflammation

Swelling and inflammation may occur in the wrist and hand affected by carpal tunnel syndrome. The swelling is often accompanied by a feeling of warmth and tenderness.

The increased pressure within the carpal tunnel can cause fluid retention and contribute to the development of these symptoms.

6. Changes in Sensation

Carpal tunnel syndrome can also lead to changes in sensation in the affected hand and fingers. Some individuals may experience a loss of sensitivity or a decrease in the ability to feel hot or cold temperatures.

Others may develop a heightened sensitivity to touch, known as hyperesthesia.

7. Worsening Symptoms at Night

Many individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome report that their symptoms worsen at night. The hand and wrist may become more painful, and the numbness and tingling may be more pronounced, leading to disrupted sleep.

This nighttime exacerbation of symptoms is often attributed to sleeping positions that further compress the median nerve.

8. Difficulty with Fine Motor Tasks

As carpal tunnel syndrome progresses, individuals may experience difficulty with fine motor tasks.

Activities such as buttoning a shirt, writing with a pen, or picking up small objects can become challenging due to the weakness, numbness, and reduced dexterity in the affected hand.

9. Radiating Pain

In some cases, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause radiating pain that extends from the hand and wrist up the arm. This pain may travel along the path of the median nerve and can be accompanied by tingling or numbness.

The radiating pain is often more severe in advanced stages of carpal tunnel syndrome.

10. Changes in Grip Strength

Carpal tunnel syndrome can result in changes in grip strength, making it difficult to perform tasks that require a firm grasp. Individuals may notice a decrease in their ability to grip objects tightly or maintain a firm hold for an extended period.

This decrease in grip strength can affect various daily activities, from opening jars to lifting weights.