What causes numbness, swelling, and warmth in the little finger?
Disease description:
My little finger has been numb recently, accompanied by some swelling and warmth, which is very uncomfortable. I'm not sure if this condition appeared suddenly. I do use my hands at work, but I haven't sustained any injuries. What could be causing this?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Numbness, swelling, and warmth in the little finger require comprehensive analysis from multiple perspectives including neurology, rheumatology/immunology, and trauma. Below are some possible causes:
1. Nerve lesions: Compression or damage of the ulnar nerve, commonly seen in ulnar nerve syndrome at the elbow or wrist, can cause sensory abnormalities in the little finger and the inner side of the ring finger.
2. Local infection: Infections such as cellulitis or paronychia can easily lead to redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and functional impairment of the finger.
3. Rheumatic and immunological diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus can affect the small joints, causing swelling, pain, and sensory disturbances.
4. Trauma: Direct impact, crush injuries, or cuts, especially injuries around the joints, may cause the aforementioned symptoms.
5. Circulatory disorders: Conditions such as Raynaud's disease or thrombosis can impair peripheral blood circulation, leading to local ischemic changes.
6. Guillain-Barré syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that affects nerve signal transmission, thereby causing these symptoms.
7. Carpal tunnel syndrome: Compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel may cause sensory disturbances, numbness, and tingling in the hand.
8. Cervical spondylosis: Degenerative changes in the cervical spine may irritate or compress adjacent nerve roots, resulting in numbness in the arm and fingers.
