What could the sudden onset of swelling and pain in one hand be?

Go to a hand surgeon and occupational therapist. I had carpal tunnel syndrome initially ruled out with a "normal" EMG result, but my occupational therapist assessed me and confirmed I did I have it. Steroid injection into carpal tunnel space by hand surgeon helped only for a few days. This confirmed that I needed the carpal tunnel release surgery. I no longer get the same symptoms you complain about. Hope this helps!

I am going through the same thing my left hand is swelled up to my wrist to my thumb and I been having sharp stabbing pains in my wrist, thumb and 2 of my fingers and I think it could be osteoarthritis.

The swelling and the pain could be osteoarthritis.

Hi Lynda F,

All the other conditions can also lead to pain and swelling on the hand. It's best to wait until he gets seen by the Rheumatologist.  

Best,

Daisy

Carpal Tunnel was ruled out. Because of the suddeness of the swelling, and pain in every joint of the hand, and only one hand, is there anything else we should be looking at? He's already being referred to a Rheumatologist for further exam.

HI Lynda F,

Welcome to EmpowHER. Common causes of hand pain include injury or trauma, such as a boxer’s fracture of the hand, or from repetitive use, such as long periods of keyboarding, which can lead to tenosynovitis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Arthritis is another very common cause of hand pain. More serious conditions, such asdiabetes and peripheral neuropathy, can also cause pain or a burning sensation in your hand and fingers.   It's important for your friend to see a specialist, that might be able to determined what is the cause of the pain.

Best,

Daisy