Typing is painful for the 8 million Americans with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The number of sufferers has doubled in the last 20 years, according to a study from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Researchers say obesity and diabetes may be to blame, since each raises the risk for CTS and both are on the rise. The problem occurs when the swelling in the wrist puts pressure on a major nerve, causing pain, tingling and weakness in the hand. Women are twice as likely as men to get CTS, possibly because their wrists are smaller, so even minor swelling can compress the nerve. Call your doctor at the first sign of symptoms, Early intervention with a brace, a corticosteroid injection or physical therapy may provide relief. In severe cases surgery may be necessary.

health news by Jane Bianchi, Family Circle Magazine, Sept. 09