Longstanding Finger Pain and New Symptoms: Seeking Insights
I am a 45-year-old Caucasian woman, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 150 pounds. I don’t smoke, I don't use recreational drugs, and I drink socially on an infrequent basis. Apart from the topic of this discussion, I have been diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis and was very recently identified as having ADHD, for which I have been taking Adderall for about seven months. For roughly the past two decades, I have been dealing with a unique issue. I cannot recall experiencing this pain during my childhood or teenage years. Specifically, there is a tender spot located on the inside of the first joint of my left ring finger that, when it is bumped—even lightly—produces an intense, sharp pain similar to hitting one’s funny bone. This spot can be found at the 5:00 mark relative to the lower right edge of my fingernail, situated approximately an inch away. I can also replicate this discomfort by applying pressure to that area; if someone were to do this for me, it would quickly become unbearable. Visually and to the touch, the finger appears entirely normal, and I have no memory of having injured it. To cope over the years, I have been exceedingly cautious to avoid any accidental bumps. However, around two to three years ago, I began experiencing additional symptoms, which I will outline below: 1. I occasionally feel a mild throbbing pain in my hand, particularly at night, although it sometimes occurs during the day. This pain is located about an inch above my wrist, perfectly aligned with the sensitive area on my finger. 2. I have had around 30 to 40 isolated incidents of sudden, sharp sensations in the finger that coincide with similar zaps on the left side of my face or scalp. 3. Recently, starting this winter, if the fingertip gets cold—even when I’m indoors at a slightly cooler temperature—I experience the same kind of pain as if it has been struck, although it’s less severe. The only way I can find relief is by warming the finger in my mouth. I’ve tried waiting for the discomfort to dissipate on its own, but if it doesn’t resolve within a minute, I resort to warming it myself. A recent x-ray indicated the presence of "mild bone spurs" at the joint, yet my physician seems puzzled by the situation. I would appreciate any insights or suggestions regarding these symptoms. Thank you!
Answers (1)
6/19/2025, 2:01:17 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort in your left ring finger, compounded by new symptoms that have emerged over the past few years. Given your detailed description, it's essential to consider potential underlying conditions while also providing recommendations for managing your pain.
Main Points:
- Your longstanding localized finger pain might relate to nerve issues, soft tissue problems, or possibly a unique response to the mild bone spurs noted in your x-ray.
- The recent symptoms, particularly the cold sensitivity and throbbing pain, warrant careful observation.
Explanation:
The sharp pain in your finger, along with the other symptoms you've described, could suggest a few possibilities:
- Nerve Entrapment or Damage: The sensations you experience, including the zaps in your face and scalp, may point towards a nerve issue, potentially in the median or ulnar nerve or even the radial nerve. These can be impacted by anatomical variations or irritation due to the surrounding structures.
- Circulatory Issues: The sensitivity to cold might indicate some circulatory changes that could be affecting the blood flow to your finger when exposed to lower temperatures.
- Soft Tissue Injury or Inflammation: Even though you don’t recall any direct injury, it’s possible that overuse or repetitive strain could have caused structural changes over time, leading to sensitivity.
Next Steps:
-
Self-Care Management:
- Ice and Heat Therapy: When symptoms flare (especially with cold sensitivity), try applying a warm compress instead of relying only on oral heating. Heat can improve circulation and alleviate discomfort. Ensure the temperature is comfortable to avoid burns.
- Gentle Stretching: Engage in gentle finger and hand stretches to enhance circulation and reduce stiffness. You can squeeze a soft stress ball or use a therapy putty to strengthen your hands without aggravating the pain.
-
Pain Relief Measures:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help, but consult with your physician to ensure these are safe in conjunction with your ADHD medication.
- Consider topical analgesics like capsaicin or lidocaine patches, which can provide localized relief.
-
Activity Modification:
- Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain and take frequent breaks if you engage in tasks involving your hands. Opt for ergonomic tools or adaptive devices if needed.
-
Symptom Monitoring:
- Keep a symptom diary documenting the severity and context of your pain, including triggers, to share with your healthcare provider. It can help identify patterns and tailor further investigations or treatments.
-
Further Inquiry:
- You may want to discuss the following with your physician:
- Referral to a specialist like a neurologist or rheumatologist for a comprehensive evaluation.
- Potential nerve conduction studies to rule out neuropathy or other nerve issues.
- You may want to discuss the following with your physician:
Please remember, your health concerns are valid, and wanting to understand and address them is an important step. Working closely with a healthcare provider will guide you to the right treatment modalities. Let me know if you have further questions!
Related Questions
Concerns Regarding Neurological Health
Hello! I received an epilepsy diagnosis back in 2008, and throughout this time, various MRI and CT imaging studies have indicated issues related to cerebral function and encephalopathy. Despite consulting multiple neurologists over the years, I’ve found that none of them appear worried about the encephalopathy aspect. Shouldn’t this be something to take more seriously? My cognitive abilities, including memory and vision, have noticeably deteriorated as time has passed. I’m feeling lost since my previous neurologists have not acknowledged my concerns adequately. If anyone could offer guidance or suggest resources, I would greatly appreciate it. In addition to epilepsy, my other medical conditions include Narcolepsy, Lynch Syndrome, Migraines, a mutation associated with HLA-B27, and Hashimoto's disease, along with others that escape me for the moment. Currently, I’m on a medication regimen that includes Lamictal, Xcopri, Hydroxyzine, Solifenacin, Zoloft, Wellbutrin, Sunosi, Aimovig, and Famotidine.
Understanding My Experience with Overdose-Related Symptoms and Behavior
25 years old, 165 cm tall, and weighing 70 kg. Summary: After sharing a complaint about my interactions with paramedics, I've taken a moment to reflect on their feedback and review the situation through the footage. I recognize that my conduct during those moments was inappropriate, and I am filled with remorse. Subsequently, I have retracted my complaint and am now seeking mental health support. I desire to clarify certain aspects since my medical records do not completely align with what I went through. Below, I detail my symptoms. Yesterday, I made a post on the AskDoctors forum, hoping for insights regarding my condition. The advice I received prompted a self-realization that had evaded me until now. Initially, I was outlining a grievance against paramedics who doubted the legitimacy of my seizures and accused me of feigning the experience. My response was not only disproportionate but also hostile—I yelled, wept, and labeled them as heartless. Such reactions were completely unwarranted and unjustifiable. Ultimately, I was physically stable, with vital signs indicating no critical issues; there were only temporary fluctuations in my blood work, which shouldn’t have raised alarms. I feel profound regret over my conduct during that encounter. Watching the footage incites feelings of self-disgust. I’ve decided to withdraw my complaints and am committed to mental health resources. I opted to delete my previous post since it contained sensitive information about my professional and educational background; I was worried it might provoke disciplinary action from my university, which I cherish as my career gives my life meaning. I admit to feeling cowardly in this respect. The initial reason for my inquiry was a desperate need for clarity about the symptoms I experienced, as my discharge documentation omits much of what transpired in the hospital and the subsequent three days. I greatly value the input I’ve received and hope to gather more perspectives. I fully acknowledge my wrongdoings and find my previous behavior abhorrent. I understand how challenging it is for emergency personnel to fulfill their duties when faced with such a situation. I’ve discussed with family and friends the importance of exercising discretion when contacting emergency services and ensuring it’s truly necessary. I regret taking up valuable resources that could have been reserved for individuals in genuine need of urgent care. My actions were shameful, not just for me but also for my colleagues who work in emergency services; I genuinely believe the clinicians should have distanced themselves from my case entirely. I've canceled my appointment with the neurologist, but I would genuinely appreciate insights from others on this subject. Could excessive doses of sertraline, propranolol, promethazine, and alcohol induce psychological seizures? Is it possible for these seizures to recur? Were my hallucinations indicative of some kind of psychosis? During the episodes, I saw hair-like formations everywhere and everything seemed to emit a blue glow. In the hospital, I consistently perceived doctors passing by. At home, the LED lights appeared to move, and I often caught glimpses of faces in my peripheral vision. There were also auditory experiences, such as hearing things that weren’t present, as confirmed by my friend. Initially at home, I was unaware I was having seizures, although I did hear police officers numbering them and acknowledging them as such. I had three episodes where I was placed in the recovery position. In my medical notes, I mentioned experiencing ten seizures throughout the night, though I can’t verify this. I was seemingly in a continuous cycle of them. I recall at least once drooling uncontrollably and my hands looked peculiar; on one occasion, I screamed when I regained consciousness due to an awkward hand position. I also experienced significant neck pain and discomfort in my feet. I know I fell twice while hospitalized; fortunately, my mother was there to catch me each time, so I avoided serious injury. I was never alone in the facility. Everything seemed to settle down after approximately three days, right around my third visit. I recall a persistent ache at the nape of my neck that left me feeling drowsy, often drifting in and out of consciousness and repeatedly asking for the time. It was a never-ending ordeal, and although I had little appetite, I did not vomit at all. Reflecting on this whole episode leaves me feeling as if it were entirely fabricated. I struggle to articulate it. Conversations about care options unfolded around me, yet I grasped little of what was being discussed. I often replied with “yes” or sought validation from my mother. I remember thinking it was remarkable that my mum had glasses with water in them; I even imagined one of my cats perched on my aunt’s shoulder. Overall, it felt akin to a terrifying drug experience. I do have videos capturing my behavior at home, though I cannot recall anything from the hospital. I often awakened with either my mother, aunt, or medical staff restraining me. Could it all stem from psychological causes? Is it possible that the medications led to a psychotic episode where I convinced myself I was experiencing seizures and on the brink of death? After they subsided, I felt like an automaton for weeks, plagued by involuntary muscle jerks—primarily in my legs and neck. I sincerely hope these symptoms do not return. I intend to avoid emergency care unless it’s absolutely necessary. I seek nothing more than to comprehend what transpired. Thank you for your thoughts.
A Mysterious Illness That Resembles Strep Throat
As an 18-year-old college student, standing at 5'4" and weighing 140 pounds, I maintain an active lifestyle. I do not smoke or have any preexisting health issues, aside from the vitamins and supplements I take daily. Approximately five days ago, I began to feel unusually fatigued and achy. Within just a day, my symptoms escalated to include a high fever reaching between 101°F and 102°F that ibuprofen couldn’t seem to alleviate. I experienced extreme tiredness that kept me bedridden all day, along with a persistent headache and intense throat pain, which was compounded by swollen lymph nodes and the familiar white patches often associated with strep throat. Having dealt with strep throat before, I recognized a need for antibiotics. Two days into feeling unwell, I visited an urgent care facility for an assessment and received a rapid strep test, which unfortunately came back negative. I recalled a previous incident where my rapid strep test also indicated a false negative, only for the culture sent for further testing to confirm the presence of strep bacteria. Given my symptoms and the findings from the examination, the healthcare provider prescribed Cefdinir, as I am allergic to amoxicillin, despite the negative rapid test results. The antibiotics proved effective, and I felt nearly back to normal, leading me to believe that my culture results would also come back positive for strep, suggesting a recurrence of my previous infection. However, I received the culture results yesterday, and to my surprise, they came back negative for strep. While I lack medical expertise, I’ve been led to believe that false negatives in cultures are exceedingly rare. Now, I find myself puzzled about what kind of bacterial infection I might have had if it wasn’t strep. Any insights or information regarding my situation would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Understanding Recurrent Symptoms: Are They Histamine-Related?
Hello, health professionals, I am seeking your expertise regarding a variety of symptoms I have been experiencing intermittently over the years. While they appear linked, I'm having difficulty pinpointing their root cause. **Personal Summary:** - 27 years old, Female - Non-smoker (formerly vaped for about eight years, cessation initiated two years ago) - No diagnosed autoimmune conditions - Background of anxiety (which might exacerbate some symptoms, though it doesn't account for all) - Currently taking Flonase and a multivitamin **Skin Reactions:** - I've dealt with recurring itchy rashes and hive-like bumps since childhood. They manifest suddenly and usually resolve without intervention. - These rashes are often itchy, can be raised, and tend to appear sporadically without identifiable triggers. - Antihistamines provide consistent relief, leading me to suspect a role of histamines in these eruptions. - These episodes do not align with typical contact allergies or classic food allergies. - They can happen multiple times daily, and I've often dismissed them as merely anxiety-related rashes. - Sometimes the itching precedes the visible rash, while other instances present with a red, inflamed area that stirs inquiries about my well-being from others. **Foot Discomfort:** - Over the last few years, I’ve encountered severe itching on the soles of my feet. - These episodes typically include small pale or white spots with redness surrounding them, occasionally featuring a red center. - Itching intensity can be overwhelming, yet these lesions usually arise suddenly, - They frequently improve upon avoiding scratching and may resolve within a range of 30 minutes to two days. - The first episode was triggered after swimming in a freshwater lake, though I’ve also experienced it while wearing specific footwear like Crocs or boots, but not consistently. - Certain events coincide with my typical skin rash, hinting at a potential systemic condition rather than merely a localized issue. - The symptoms do not mirror those of warts, ringworm, or fungal infections. **Ear and Sinus Issues:** - Itchy ears have been a recurring issue for the past few years; I initially attributed it to overly aggressive cleaning with cotton swabs, which I realize is harmful. - I have a history of chronic sinus problems, including post-nasal drip and regular ear infections. - The inflammation appears to flare up sporadically rather than constantly. - Recently, I experienced a painful ear issue that began with what I thought was a pimple. The next day, my ear was swollen. After visiting a clinic, I was diagnosed with a double ear and sinus infection, treated with antibiotics. My pain persisted, leading to a follow-up with my primary care physician, who prescribed Flonase and noted ongoing nasal inflammation. Missing doses led to increased ear discomfort, prompting me to take Flonase more regularly. Unfortunately, a recent flare of swelling and discomfort in my ear led me to consider consulting an ENT specialist. **Gastrointestinal Symptoms:** - I was diagnosed with gastritis through an upper endoscopy procedure. - Testing for H. pylori returned negative. - I've since developed food sensitivities and gastrointestinal discomfort not previously experienced. - I saw significant improvement after removing gluten and dairy from my diet, with tests for celiac disease yielding negative results. - Symptoms tend to flare up in response to stress or specific food intake rather than being a constant presence. **Additional Context:** - A history of childhood asthma (now occurs infrequently) - Sensitivity to heat - Past instances of feeling lightheaded, resembling vasovagal symptoms, alongside vertigo - Symptoms across various systems often flare together, but not in every instance - While my anxiety can intensify symptoms, both antihistamines and diet modifications have had notable positive effects **My Inquiry:** While I don’t wish to self-diagnose, I'm curious if my range of symptoms might suggest: - Histamine intolerance - Mast-cell overactivity (not necessarily MCAS, but an increased reaction) - Physical or contact urticaria I'm primarily seeking: - Recommendations for a suitable specialist - Insight on whether this symptom pattern fits a recognized mechanism - A clearer understanding of what warning signs to be concerned about **Summary:** I contend with a long-standing pattern of episodic itchy rashes and hives, significant but transient foot itching along with bumps, persistent ear irritation coupled with sinus problems, and gastritis accompanied by food sensitivities that improved on an elimination diet. Antihistamines aid multiple symptoms. Could this suggest underlying histamine-related issues manifesting across multiple systems rather than in isolation?
Chronic Joint Pain Since Childhood
Since I was eight years old, I’ve endured intense and persistent pain in my joints. Initially, the discomfort was primarily in my knees, characterized by a sharp sensation right beneath the kneecap. As someone on the autism spectrum, I often visualize a strange, soothing thought: the idea of removing my kneecap and using an ice cream scoop to relieve the pressure underneath it. My parents sought help from several medical professionals, all of whom attributed my symptoms to growing pains. I even underwent cancer screenings at the age of nine because doctors felt my level of discomfort was excessive for mere growing pains. At school, I frequently had to wear dual knee braces. When I turned 14, I had a CT scan, but the results were inconclusive; doctors continued to insist it was just growing pains. At 18, I had an X-ray that also revealed nothing abnormal. Now at 20, my joint pain persists and is progressively worsening. My hands now ache in addition to my knees, and on particularly bad days, the pain radiates down to my ankles, making walking and sleeping almost impossible for half the week. The discomfort has entirely hindered my ability to work. My family and I strongly suspect that I may have some form of arthritis, but I struggle to convince the medical community of this due to my young age. My father, who suffers from arthritis himself, often empathizes when I express my pain, telling me, "that sounds familiar." I have broken down in front of numerous doctors, pleading for assistance, yet I consistently leave without answers, only to be scheduled for more scans that come back normal. The medical care I have received thus far has been far from satisfactory; for instance, I was prescribed eye drops that nearly resulted in serious damage to my vision when I consulted an eye specialist. This is just one of many frustrating experiences I’ve faced. I feel completely overwhelmed and in agony, and I have no way to reach out for specialized medical help since my only means of transportation is my father, who is also afflicted by arthritis. I feel lost and in deep pain without a clear path forward.