For most patients the exact cause is unknown. Prolonged pressure to the nerve at the wrist can cause symptoms and so may relate to a patient’s occupation. It is more common in women and is associated with pregnancy and medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid problems. Previous wrist trauma can also cause symptoms.
The main symptoms are of tingling and altered feeling in the thumb, index and middle fingers. This is usually worse at night. Gripping objects, such as a telephone or driving, can provoke symptoms. Weakness in the hand or a loss of coordination of the fingers can occur in more severe cases.
Your surgeon can usually make the diagnosis by asking about the symptoms you have and examining your hand. Nerve conduction studies can be used to confirm the diagnosis.
If symptoms are mild then avoidance of aggravating factors, night splints and steroid injections can be used. If symptoms persist then surgery in the form of a carpal tunnel release can be performed.