Question
Yesterday while turning on a light switch I received a pretty strong electric shock. I had immediate pain in my hand that radiated up my arm. I went to see the DR and she said that the tingling and throbbing would subside with Tylnol. Well, tylnol is not helping and the pain and the pain has gotten worse. I was not burned not did I pass out from the shock. My middle finger throbs along with my hand almost cramping like. My arm feels like I am holding a 300lb weight and not letting go. Is this nerve and muscle damage from the shock? How long can this pain last? is this normal? is there a test I can ask my doctor to do, to see what is wrong? Is there something stronger than tylnol that I can take for the pain?

Answer
Hi Brandie

Thanks for your question.

Although I'm not a medical doctor, from what you're describing I'd say the shock traumatized a nerve. I wouldn't really expect Tylenol to help with that.

Nerve damage and pain is not easy to predict in terms of how long it will last. Ordinarily I would expect it to gradually subside. If it is not, then I would suggest a return visit to the doctor and let her know it's not getting better and ask for a treatment alternative, or a referral to a specialist (perhaps a neurologist).

Hopefully it will start to get better, but you should stay on top of it.

I don't really have a recommendation on an alternative medication, that parts a little out of my area of expertise.

Good luck

Barry