Hand muscle loss and pain

[Steal]

Have GCAPMR and paroxysmal AFib. Down to 5.5mg pred and taking Atenolol beta blocker. 7 weeks ago I had what felt like signs of Carpal tunnel syndrome and Rheum nurse support team suggested on phone that's what it probably was, suggested upping the pred. I upped it to 8 for 4 days then came back to 5.5. No obvious difference by symptoms changed and now I have a lot of hand pain, like stings or burns, and some tingling, especially at night, as well as loss of muscle power in all fingers especially 4th and 5th. Writing is difficult, as is using clothes pegs, holding cutlery normally etc. Right hand often cold while left is hot. Left foot affected to less extent, right foot a very little. Saw GP 3 days ago, is going to refer me to a neurologist (don't know when, of course). Due to see rheumatologist in 3 weeks. Last blood test 3 weeks ago showed CRP at 17, having been at 2 for the last few months.Any ideas or advice, please? I'm wondering if it's a heart or a GCA problem. The muscle loss is really worrying me.

Thanks for this forum, really value it.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I would suspect nerves being trapped somewhere - carpal tunnel usually affects the thumb to middle fingers because the median nerve is involved and if the ring and little finger are affected it is the ulnar nerve. The little finger is never affected in carpal tunnel so it is more complex than that.

Personally, I would be very unimpressed by the promise to refer to a neurologist and I would go to A&E for advice given all the other things you mention. It isn't carpal tunnel affecting your feet that is for certain and it is progressing.

A&E will be manic over the weekend but I'd go and take a couple of good books and a picnic.

[Steal in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you, I'm always reluctant to ask for help at A&Ein case my issue isn't an emergency but I think I will need to, to get another view. Would a neurologist be the right person to see if GP will refer me for a private consultation?

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Steal]

Possibly yes - difficult to say from here - and why I suggest A&E who might have more idea about that than your GP.

[Steal in reply to Steal]

GPdid say there was visible muscle wastage on the backs of my hands. I'm also going to try exercises for muscles in case that helps. Have been reading previous posts on the subject.