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My grandma has these hard bumps forming on her finger joints near the nails. Why is this spreading?

Hard bumps forming on your grandma’s finger joints near the nails are often caused by osteoarthritis, especially if the bumps are hard, develop slowly, and appear on several fingers. However, other conditions can cause similar lumps.

Image:赫伯登结节-MSD诊疗手册专业版

1. Osteoarthritis (most likely)

These are called Heberden’s nodes. They form when the joints closest to the fingertips develop bony enlargement due to wear and tear. More fingers may develop bumps over time, and the joints can become stiff, sore, or crooked.

Mucous Cysts – Fife Virtual Hand Clinic

2. Mucous cysts

These are small lumps near the nail joint associated with osteoarthritis. They may look shiny or translucent rather than feeling completely solid.

3. Other possibilities: Rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, gout, or less commonly, skin growths. The location, appearance, and symptoms help distinguish them.

Why is it spreading?

Osteoarthritis can affect several finger joints over time because of aging, genetics, and gradual cartilage changes. New bumps don’t necessarily mean the condition is spreading rapidly or is dangerous.

What should you do?

  • Arrange a medical appointment to confirm the cause, especially if new bumps keep appearing.

  • Avoid squeezing, puncturing, or trying to remove the bumps.

  • Seek prompt medical care if a joint becomes suddenly red, hot, very painful, or markedly swollen.

Can you tell me three things?

  1. Are the bumps very hard like bone, or soft and fluid-filled?

  2. Are they on both hands or just one?

  3. Does she have pain or stiffness, or are the bumps painless?

These details can help narrow down what’s most likely happening to your grandma.

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