Health
Why Do I Feel Joint Pain in The Thumb?
Last Updated on March 16, 2023 by Nurse Vicky
Why Do I Feel Joint Pain in The Thumb?
When we say joint pain, we are talking about the joints that connect two or more bones. In a healthy person, joints have smooth cartilage-covered surfaces. Unfortunately, with age, these surfaces can begin to wear out and cause arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it causes changes in the bones within the joints.
These changes typically begin gradually and worsen over time.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
The carpal tunnel is a narrow space between the wrist and hand that is lined by the median nerve, which supplies sensation to the palm side of the thumb and nerve signals to the muscles of the hand and fingers. When this nerve is squeezed, it can cause joint pain, numbness, and even weakness.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of several entrapment neuropathies. Here are some of the most common symptoms. The symptoms may increase slowly or suddenly and can interfere with normal activities. The symptoms can be constant and may spread to the shoulder.
The affected hand can be numb and weak, making it difficult to grip objects, and if left untreated, can lead to permanent nerve damage. If you are experiencing joint pain in the thumb, you should see a doctor right away. There are many treatments for this condition, but early symptoms should be treated with rest.
Symptoms of trigger finger
A trigger finger is a condition that affects the fingertips, usually the ring finger, and can sometimes recur in other fingers after a course of treatment. This condition is more common in women than in men and is associated with age and gender. However, it can occur in children and adolescents, and may also occur after carpal tunnel syndrome.
Read on to learn more about the trigger finger and its symptoms.
In order to determine if you have the condition, make an appointment with a physician or healthcare provider to have a medical checkup. A doctor can diagnose a trigger finger by looking at your hand and taking a full medical history. A physical examination will reveal if your finger is stiff or locked and whether it moves.
In severe cases, it may even lock in a bent position. Treatment for trigger fingers is typically nonsurgical and relies on limiting the activity that makes the condition worse. However, if you continue to experience severe symptoms, you should consider surgery.
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
When you have rheumatoid arthritis of the thumb, you may experience deformity of your thumb.
These symptoms occur when the bones in the large knuckles become damaged.
They may cause the joint in the middle finger or top finger to bend back more than usual. As a result, you may have a swan’s neck-shaped thumb. Your thumb is comprised of three joints: the CMC joint (the base joint), the MP joint (the middle joint), and the IP joint, which is the end knuckle. The CMC joint is the area of the thumb affected by arthritis. The trapezium, a small carpal bone in the wrist, and the long bone of the thumb are attached to the CMC joint.
Together, these bones provide stability and mobility to the thumb.
Symptoms of tenosynovitis
Tenosynovitis is an inflammation of a tendon, also called a tendon sheath. Tendons are surrounded by a protective sheath, which is made of layers of connective tissue and contains a lubricating fluid. Tendons are found all over the body, but not all have a sheath.
Most tendon sheaths are located in the hands, wrists, and feet. Tendons can become inflamed when these sheaths become inflamed. Early treatment for tenosynovitis consists of rest and reducing activity that causes inflammation. Heat or ice can be used to reduce inflammation.
Some people find ice to be more effective, while others prefer warmth or a combination of both. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce inflammation, although they may not completely cure the condition. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the base of the thumb
Osteoarthritis of the base of the thumb is a common hand condition and often causes pain.
The condition can be caused by a loss of synovial fluid in the joints, which causes friction between bones.Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications, splinting, or joint fusion.
Surgery may be recommended to reduce pain and range of motion, and a trapezium may be removed to alleviate pressure on the joint but symptoms are likely to worsen over ti
.In some cases, surgery may be the only option for pain relief. While this option may not be ideal for everyone, many patients find that it provides significant pain relief and range of motion recovery.
However, it is still important to be evaluated by a medical professional to ensure you are getting the most appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
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Iowa Reports First Fatal Case of Ebola-like Lassa Fever Following Travel to West Africa
Iowa Reports First Fatal Case of Ebola-like Lassa Fever Following Travel to West Africa
Iowa health officials recently confirmed a fatal case of Lassa fever, an Ebola-like viral disease, in a person who had recently traveled to West Africa.
This incident has raised concerns about Lassa fever’s risks, transmission methods, and potential impacts on public health, especially as it is one of the few recorded cases of this virus in the United States.
This article will provide an in-depth overview of Lassa fever, its origins, symptoms, transmission risks, and the measures people can take to protect themselves and those around them.
Understanding Lassa Fever
What is Lassa Fever?
Lassa fever is a hemorrhagic virus similar in presentation to Ebola, transmitted primarily by contact with food or objects contaminated with infected rodent urine or feces.
This viral disease is common in parts of West Africa, where an estimated 100,000 to 300,000 cases are reported annually. Though many cases go unreported, the virus can cause severe illness and death in severe cases, particularly in patients with underlying health conditions.
Lassa Fever vs. Ebola: What’s the Difference?
Both Lassa fever and Ebola are viral hemorrhagic fevers, but they differ in their method of transmission, symptom severity, and geographical reach.
While Ebola spreads through human-to-human contact, Lassa fever is mainly rodent-borne and spread through direct or indirect exposure to rodents’ excretions.
Ebola outbreaks have historically shown higher fatality rates, but Lassa fever is often underreported, making mortality comparisons challenging.
Origins and Transmission of Lassa Fever
Where Does Lassa Fever Come From?
Lassa fever was first identified in 1969 in Nigeria and has since remained endemic in countries like Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, and Nigeria.
The Mastomys rat, or “multimammate rat,” serves as the natural reservoir for the virus and is a common species in West African regions, leading to frequent human contact and possible transmission.
How is Lassa Fever Transmitted?
Transmission occurs mainly through:
- Direct contact with infected rodents’ urine or droppings.
- Ingestion of contaminated food or household items.
- Human-to-human transmission in healthcare settings due to improper hygiene practices or exposure to bodily fluids of infected individuals.
The virus does not spread through casual contact, making general public spread less likely unless in close contact with contaminated surfaces or bodily fluids.
Symptoms of Lassa Fever
Early Symptoms
Early symptoms of Lassa fever can be mild, leading to undiagnosed cases or delayed medical attention.
Symptoms typically appear 1-3 weeks after exposure and may include:
- Fever and fatigue
- Sore throat and cough
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Abdominal and chest pain
Severe Symptoms and Complications
As the disease progresses, patients may develop more severe symptoms like:
- Hemorrhaging from gums, eyes, or nose
- Facial swelling and fluid in the lungs
- Seizures and confusion
- Organ failure
While some patients recover within weeks, severe complications can arise, especially in pregnant women and individuals with preexisting health conditions.
Diagnosis and Treatment
How is Lassa Fever Diagnosed?
Diagnosis requires specialized laboratory testing, as Lassa fever’s early symptoms resemble many other viral illnesses.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) can identify viral RNA and antibodies in blood samples, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Antiviral medication, such as ribavirin, has shown promise in reducing symptoms when administered early. Supportive care, including rehydration, oxygen therapy, and blood transfusions, is crucial for severe cases.
However, there is no universally approved vaccine, making prevention through hygiene and rodent control vital.
Preventive Measures for Lassa Fever
Minimizing Contact with Rodents
Effective rodent control is essential in areas where Lassa fever is prevalent. Keeping food in rodent-proof containers, clearing homes of food scraps, and storing waste away from living spaces can minimize exposure to rodent excretions.
Maintaining Hygiene in Healthcare Settings
In hospitals, isolation protocols and rigorous hygiene practices, including the use of gloves, masks, and proper disposal of waste, are critical to prevent transmission from infected individuals to healthcare workers or family members.
Public Health Concerns and Global Impact
Why Should We Be Concerned About Lassa Fever?
While cases outside of West Africa are rare, the recent case in Iowa illustrates the potential for Lassa fever to appear in non-endemic regions.
Increased global travel poses risks, necessitating enhanced screening and awareness, especially for travelers returning from high-risk areas.
The Role of the CDC and WHO
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) play significant roles in monitoring and controlling Lassa fever outbreaks.
Both organizations work closely with local health agencies to provide guidelines, support diagnosis, and enhance preventive measures.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of life due to Lassa fever in Iowa serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of hemorrhagic fevers. Increased awareness, hygiene measures, and public health vigilance are essential to prevent future cases and protect communities.
As international travel grows, so does the need for education on preventing and responding to rare but deadly diseases like Lassa fever.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Lassa fever be spread through the air?
No, Lassa fever is not airborne. It spreads through contact with rodent excretions or bodily fluids of an infected person.
2. Is there a vaccine available for Lassa fever?
Currently, there is no FDA-approved vaccine for Lassa fever, though researchers are actively working on developing one.
3. What regions are considered high-risk for Lassa fever?
High-risk regions include West African countries such as Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea, where the Mastomys rodent is prevalent.
4. What should travelers do to protect themselves from Lassa fever?
Travelers to endemic regions should avoid contact with rodents, keep food secured, and wash hands frequently. It’s wise to stay updated on health advisories from the CDC.
5. How can healthcare facilities prevent Lassa fever spread?
Hospitals can reduce risks by implementing stringent hygiene protocols, using personal protective equipment, and isolating infected patients to prevent cross-contamination.
References :
Health
Understanding Menstrual Allergy: What You Need to Know
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REFERENCE:
https://www.healthwellnessjournal.com/menstrual-allergy-guide
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