Does carpal tunnel syndrome get worse during pregnancy?

Yes: There is increased swelling associated with pregnancy and as a result, carpal tunnel syndrome may also get worse. Hand braces may help alleviate symptoms. If you work with your hands, take frequent breaks. Also, avoid excessive salt intake to prevent any further swelling. The symptoms should improve after delivery.

It can: It can get worse and many patients get referred in the second and especially third trimester. If things get really bad i.E sleep loss and inability to function, then in the third trimester most obstetricians will allow cortisone injection.. Once the baby is delivered symptoms typically resolve but not always. Do not confuse this with dequervain's tendonitis that may develop post partum.

Yes: Due to the increased fluid load during pregnancy, carpal tunnel syndrome does get worse. The tendon and nerves get swollen and increase the pressure within the carpal tunnel. Once the pregnancy is over and your fluid status returns to normal, the symptoms should improve. Steroid injections into the carpal tunnel can help decrease the symptoms, as can night time splinting.