Palm Pain: Is It Warts or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Pain in the palm and viral warts?

Hello, I have a viral wart on the left half of my right palm that has been present for about 7 years, and it occasionally causes pain in that area.
Currently, it does not appear to have enlarged.
However, recently I have been experiencing a dull pain in the right half of my palm.
Could this be due to the viral wart spreading underneath, or could it be related to carpal tunnel syndrome? I'm unsure whether I should see a dermatologist or a psychiatrist.
Thank you.
Currently, there are no visible warts on the right side of my palm, and the pain on both sides does not occur simultaneously.
The pain is localized to the palm, and I still have full mobility in my fingers.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/16

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

First, see a dermatologist.

Reply Date: 2021/01/16

More Info

Understanding palm pain can be quite complex, especially when distinguishing between conditions like warts and carpal tunnel syndrome. Based on your description, it seems you have a longstanding viral wart on the left side of your palm that has been present for about seven years. You also mentioned experiencing pain in the right side of your palm, which is a new development.
Firstly, it’s important to clarify the nature of the pain and the characteristics of the wart. Viral warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), typically present as rough, raised lesions on the skin. They can cause discomfort or pain, especially if they are located in areas that experience friction or pressure. However, warts do not usually cause pain in other areas of the hand unless there is a direct connection, such as nerve involvement or referred pain.

The pain you are experiencing in the right side of your palm could be due to several factors. One possibility is that it is related to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), which occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the wrist. Symptoms of CTS typically include pain, numbness, or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger, and it can sometimes extend into the palm. However, since you mentioned that the pain is localized to the palm and does not radiate to the fingers, this may not be the primary concern.

Another possibility is that the pain in your right palm could be due to repetitive strain or overuse, especially if you engage in activities that require prolonged use of your hands. Conditions like tendinitis or tenosynovitis can cause localized pain in the palm and may not be related to the wart at all.

It is also worth considering that the pain could be psychosomatic, especially if you have been anxious about the wart or have been focusing on your hand pain. Stress and anxiety can manifest physically, leading to discomfort in various parts of the body.

Given these considerations, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional who specializes in hand conditions. A dermatologist would be appropriate for evaluating the wart and determining if any treatment is necessary. They can also assess whether the wart is causing any underlying issues. If carpal tunnel syndrome or another nerve-related issue is suspected, a referral to a hand specialist or neurologist may be warranted for further evaluation, including nerve conduction studies.

In summary, while the wart on your left palm may be causing localized pain, the pain in your right palm could be due to a variety of factors, including carpal tunnel syndrome, repetitive strain, or even psychosomatic causes. It is essential to seek a thorough evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and to receive appropriate treatment.

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