Hello,
I am trying to get some help with a medical problem possibly involving
marine microbiology. I am a crabpotter and clammer on the Chesapeake
Bay and have been experiencing a problem with my hand for about 2
months. The symptoms are similar to reumatoid arthritis or CTS and
have made the use of my right hand and wrist almost impossible and
extremely painful. X-rays and blood work are all normal and my
doctor, and excellent G.P. practicing in Chincoteague Va. thinks that
it may be caused by the entry of a rare marine micro-organism into the
second joint of my middle finger. I often get stuck by the fin of a
fish while crab potting so this may be possible. He has found a hand
specialist across the Bay who has dealt with one case of this and is
sending me to him tomorrow. Since I am self employed with no
insurance and 2 small children it is important that I get this resolved
and get back on the water since I haven't been able to work in 2
months.
My doctor feels this is a very rare situation and any
information or experiences having to do with this sort of thing would
be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your consideration.
Harry Savage
hvsavage at shore.intercom.net
