Pregnancy swelling puts pressure on a key nerve in the wrists and causes the same aching and tingling symptoms most often associated with ergonomic strain and repetitive motion.
If you're feeling this symptom more at night, it's because the fluids that accumulate in the lower part of your body during the day are redistributed elsewhere ? including your hands ? when you lie down (think of it as a kind of reverse gravity). And of course, if you've been at a computer all day long you?re in for a double whammy at nighttime. Luckily, though, this symptom should disappear after delivery as your swelling diminishes.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Stretch it out. If you work at a computer or do any other activity that requires repetitive motion (like playing the piano or filing), take frequent hand-stretching breaks to relieve hand pain and tingling.
Get in position. If you spend a lot of time at a computer typing, type gently and make sure your wrists are straight and your elbows are higher than your hands.
Sleep well. Try not to sleep on your hands, and use a pillow to prop up your arms at night.
Get the blood flowing. Shake your hands and wrists out frequently. At night, hang your hand over the side of the bed and shake it.
Avoid triggers. It may help to limit or avoid caffeine and stay away from tobacco (which you should definitely be doing anyway).
Buy a wrist brace. If your carpal tunnel is causing you a lot of pain, ask your practitioner what kind of brace to buy.
Try alternative therapies. Acupuncture might help relieve hand pain ? ask your practitioner for a recommendation.
Talk to your doctor. He may be able to prescribe the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs usually prescribed for carpal tunnel syndrome.
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