Dealing with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
I've been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, and my median nerve measures 28mm squared. I previously received a cortisone injection, but unfortunately, that did not alleviate my symptoms, so my general practitioner has referred me for surgery. He emphasized the need for an expedited appointment due to the challenges I'm facing with daily tasks. I was informed today that I have an orthopedic consultation scheduled for January 14th. While I recognize that it's the holiday period, my condition is deteriorating. I find it increasingly difficult to use items like spray bottles, and I struggle to grip objects with my middle to pinkie finger. Is there a possibility to hasten my appointment, or would it be wiser to seek help at the Emergency Department? My GP's office currently has no available slots until after the new year. For context, I'm a 27-year-old male, standing at 185 cm tall and weighing 82 kg. I’m taking Lyrica for the pain, and I don’t smoke. I've been encountering these issues for a couple of months, but the situation has become significantly worse very quickly.
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 6:01:03 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing significant difficulties due to your carpal tunnel syndrome, and it’s understandable to feel frustrated with the wait for surgery. Here are the main points to consider:
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Urgency of Symptoms: Your symptoms are worsening, and daily tasks are becoming increasingly challenging, which indicates a need to address this situation promptly.
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Appointment Options: While I understand the holiday period limits appointments, there are some practical steps you can consider to potentially expedite your care.
Explanation:
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the wrist, leading to symptoms like pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand. Your measurement of the median nerve size suggests significant nerve involvement, especially since previous treatments like cortisone injections haven't helped.
Waiting for surgery can be tough, especially when it interferes with your daily activities, which can also affect your quality of life.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Contact the Orthopedic Office: Call the office where your consultation is scheduled and explain your situation. Mention the rapid decline of your symptoms and see if they can offer an earlier appointment due to the urgency.
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Ask About Cancellations: Inquire if they have a cancellation list you can join, where they might be able to fit you in sooner if someone cancels.
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Consider the Emergency Department: If your symptoms worsen significantly (like severe pain, inability to use your hand, or new symptoms such as difficulty moving your fingers), you might consider visiting the Emergency Department. They can provide immediate pain relief and evaluate the need for more urgent intervention.
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Use Supportive Gear: In the meantime, wear a wrist splint, particularly at night or during activities that aggravate your symptoms. This may help reduce pain and protect your wrist from positions that increase nerve pressure.
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Self-Care Tips: Take frequent breaks during activities, modify tasks to limit strain on your hands, and apply cold packs to reduce swelling, if any.
Your concerns are valid, and taking these steps can help manage your symptoms while you wait for your consultation. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to discuss or clarify!
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# 7-Month-Old Child with Abernethy Malformation - Exploring Treatment Options ## [7-Month-Old] Identified with Abernethy Malformation (Congenital Portosystemic Shunt) - Treatment Methods? **Age:** 7 months **Gender:** Female **Height:** Age-appropriate **Weight:** Currently 9 kg, was 2.8 kg at birth **Ethnicity:** Asian **Duration of Symptoms:** Present since birth **Location:** Uzbekistan **Pre-existing Health Issues:** Abernethy malformation (congenital portosystemic shunt), liver hemangiomas, chronic jaundice, anemia **Current Treatments:** Supportive management --- ## INITIAL PRESENTATION (June 2025 - July 2025) Our daughter arrived on **June 27, 2025**, presenting with: - Birth weight: **2.8 kg** - Marked jaundice (yellowing of skin and sclera) - Pale or clay-colored stools - **Bilirubin level: 245 μmol/L** (typically <20) An immediate ultrasound indicated multiple liver anomalies, initially thought to be hemangiomas. --- ## FIRST COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT (August 1, 2025 - 1 Month Old) ### Multislice Computed Tomography (MSCT) with 3-Phase Contrast (August 1, 2025): **RESULTS:** - 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Cons: Surgical scar, longer recovery time (7-14 days in hospital) - Duration: 2-4 hours ### Option 3: **Liver Transplantation** - We have been advised this is not necessary as the portal vein is functional and liver health is improving. --- ## SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER: 1. **With a functional portal vein (6.1 mm) and improving liver function (ALT normalized), is it advisable to pursue endovascular closure as the preferred treatment?** 2. **Despite ALT levels improving, the bilirubin remains consistently high (242). Should this be a cause for concern? Is there a prospect for it to normalize post shunt closure?** 3. **Are the hemangiomas/nodules (11.6×20.7 mm) linked to the shunt? Will they likely resolve following shunt repair?** 4. **How urgent is the proposed intervention? Is immediate action required, or is there flexibility to wait a few months?** 5. **What complications should we be vigilant for during the waiting period?** 6. **Regarding endovascular closure - what is the average success rate for infants aged 7 months? Are there concerns regarding the shunt size (9.9 mm)?** 7. **The measurement of the portal vein has shown improvement from 6.1 mm to 3.9 mm; should this be perceived as a positive sign or a reason for concern?** 8. **Are there special directives (diet modifications, medications) we should consider while awaiting the procedure?** 9. **Post-procedure, how long should we expect it might take for:** - Normalization of bilirubin levels? - Return of stool color to normal? - Resolution of jaundice? - Regression of hemangiomas? 10. **Can you recommend any specialized centers for pediatric Abernethy malformation treatments? We are located in Uzbekistan but are prepared to travel (to Turkey, Russia, South Korea, etc.)** --- ## ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - No family history of hepatic diseases - Pregnancy and delivery were normal - No additional congenital defects identified - Immunizations up to date - No history of bleeding disorders - No signs indicative of encephalopathy - Child is alert and engaged --- **I can supply actual MSCT images and comprehensive lab reports if they would be of assistance.** We sincerely appreciate any insights you can provide. We are striving to make the most informed decision regarding our daughter’s care and highly value expert medical opinions. **TL;DR:** 7-month-old diagnosed with Abernethy Type 2 malformation (9.9 mm portocaval shunt, patent portal vein). Liver functionality is improving (normalized ALT) while bilirubin remains elevated (242). Evaluating options between endovascular coil embolization and open surgery. Seeking expert advice on optimal treatment strategy and timing.