TreatmentTherapy

Acutely, it is important to make the existing symptoms, such as pain and inflammation, tolerable, for example with the help of painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac. It may be necessary to immobilize the wrist, for example with a splint or bandage. Depending on the underlying disease, cooling or warming of the affected wrist is advisable.

Glucocorticoids can be given in case of inflammation, and antibiotics may be necessary in case of wrist infections.Physiotherapy for mobilization, stretching and strengthening of the wrist can help especially after the end of the acute phase. If a disease affects the entire system, the swelling can also decrease with improvement in kidney or heart function, for example through medication. If the local complaints in the wrist do not improve, operations such as artificial joint stiffening, joint repositioning (corrective osteotomy) or cartilage transplantation may also be useful if joint degeneration (arthrosis) is the cause of the complaints.

Duration

The duration of wrist swelling depends on its cause. If, for example, there is a lack of heart function, the swelling can also be permanent and/or already chronic. If the swelling sets in acutely, for example in the context of an infection or inflammation, the swelling can last for several days. If the swelling persists beyond this time or if no cause can be found, you should consult a doctor to clarify the symptom.

With participation of the fingers

If generalized fluid retention (edema) is present, the fingers may also be affected. If the swelling particularly affects the finger base and middle joints, rheumatoid arthritis is likely.

Rheumatism

Rheumatoid arthritis (joint inflammation) is a widespread autoimmune disease. Especially the small finger joints are affected (basal joints of the fingers, wrist, middle joints of the fingers), these are then symmetrically swollen and hurt even when resting. The finger end joints, however, are almost never affected.

A strong handshake can cause pain (Gaenslen sign). A morning stiffness over 30 minutes as well as the occurrence of rheumatic nodules, e.g. near the elbow, is also noticeable. Internal organs such as the lungs, heart, eyes and vessels can also be affected.

If rheumatoid arthritis is suspected, further blood and X-ray examinations will be performed. If the suspicion is confirmed, a basic therapy with methotrexate (MTX) and, in acute phases, with glucocorticoids, painkillers, cold treatments and exercise therapy will be initiated as soon as possible. This is important for the further course of the disease.