Dupuytren's contracture & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is dupuytren's contracture?

Dupuytren's contracture is a condition that affects the hands. This condition affects the layer of tissue that lies under the skin of your palms. A layer of tissue under the skin. The tissue thickens and shortens so that it forms a kind of thick thread that can pull one or more fingers, resulting in the position of the fingers being bent. This can happen on one side only, but often both hands experience this disease simultaneously. This disease often attacks the ring and little fingers. Over time, your hands will become difficult to use.

Dupuytren's contracture is a condition that is not life threatening, but it doesn't just go away and can cause disability.

How common are dupuytren's contractures?

Dupuytren's contracture usually affects between the ages of 40 and 65 and occurs most frequently in older men of Northern European descent. This can be overcome by reducing your risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of dupuytren's contracture?

The finger bent towards the palm accompanied by the presence of a small, painless lump in the middle of the hand is the main symptom. People only notice it when it is difficult to achieve something. The little finger and ring finger are the fingers most often attacked. There is usually no pain, but people will feel some discomfort when trying to hold onto something. The skin on the palms becomes wrinkled.

There may be other symptoms and signs not listed above. If you have concerns about the symptoms of this disease, please consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have any of the signs or symptoms listed above or have any questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always discuss with your doctor what is best for your situation.

Cause

What causes dupuytren's contracture?

The cause of Dupuytren's contracture is currently unknown, but it is not contagious. But sometimes it runs in families. This disease is slightly more common in people with a history of hand injuries and certain conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy and HIV infection.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for dupuytren's contracture?

A number of factors that are believed to increase the risk of dupuytren's contracture are:

• Age. Dupuytren's contracture occurs most frequently after age 50 years.
• Gender. Men are more likely to develop Dupuytren and have more severe contractures than women.
• Heredity. People of Northern European descent are at a higher risk of this disease.
• History or family history. Dupuytren is common and is found to run in family members.
• Tobacco and alcohol. Smoking is closely associated with an increased risk of Dupuytren's contracture, possibly due to the microscopic changes in blood vessels caused by smoking. Alcohol intake is also associated with Dupuytren.
• Diabetes. Diabetics are reported to have an increased risk of developing Dupuytren's contracture.

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for Dupuytren's contracture?

If the condition is not severe, the doctor will recommend exercise, warm baths, stretching, or for you to use a bandage.

If the condition gets worse, the doctor will inject a drug (collagenase or corticosteroid) into your hand to slow the progression of the disease. If you have significant problems using your hands, your doctor will recommend surgery. The tissue in the palm will be divided or removed. This allows your fingers to return to their normal position. However, the problem can recur.

Radiation is another treatment option. It is used for mild cases, when the tissue is not that thick. Radiation therapy can stop or slow down tissue thickening. Usually this is done only once.

What are the usual tests for Dupuytren's contracture?

In most cases, doctors can diagnose Dupuytren's contracture by the look and feel of your hand. Other tests that are rarely needed.

Your doctor will compare your hands to each other and examine the wrinkles on the skin of your palms, as well as press on the hands and fingers to examine the tissue bands.

Your doctor may also check to see if you can place your hand on a table or other flat surface. Not being able to fully flatten your fingers indicates that you have Dupuytren's contracture.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat dupuytren's contracture?

Here are some lifestyle and home remedies that can help you treat Dupuytren's contracture:

• Do repeat checks to track the progress of the disease and your health condition
• Control factors such as diabetes, epilepsy, and repetitive hand injuries
• Wear protective gloves when doing manual work

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.