Numbness in the Hands
The hands contain some of the most sensitive touch receptors in the body, all of which are connected to the brain through a network of nerves. When one of these nerves or parts of it is injured, the brain may not receive all sensory information from the hands, resulting in a condition known as hand numbness. This symptom is common and can be quite bothersome. It may be mild and temporary, as seen when pressure is applied to the nerves, such as when resting one’s head on the hands during sleep. This prickling sensation typically subsides once the source of pressure is removed.
Causes of Hand Numbness
There are several potential causes of hand numbness, including:
- Stroke: Hand numbness may be an indicator of a stroke. While this is not the most common symptom, it is crucial to seek medical assistance if accompanied by other warning signs. These may include sudden weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, particularly on one side of the body, difficulties speaking or understanding speech, confusion, sudden vision problems, dizziness or balance issues, and a severe headache. Rapid medical intervention can significantly reduce the risk of long-term damage or save a life.
- Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies: The body requires vitamin B12 to maintain healthy nerves. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to numbness in the hands and feet. Additionally, deficiencies in potassium and magnesium may also cause numbness. Accompanying symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may include weakness, fatigue, jaundice, balance issues, cognitive difficulties, and hallucinations.
- Medication Side Effects: Certain medications can cause nerve damage as a side effect. These include antibiotics like metronidazole, anticancer drugs, antiseizure medications such as phenytoin, and certain cardiovascular or antihypertensive medications, like amiodarone.
- Herniated Discs: The discs serve as cushions between the vertebrae of the spine. Damage to these discs can lead to nerve compression and irritation, causing numbness and weakness in the hands or feet.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed at the wrist. It is one of the most common causes of hand numbness. Accompanying symptoms may include feelings of swelling or numbness in one or more fingers. If left untreated for an extended period, surgical intervention may become necessary to relieve nerve pressure.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes can result in peripheral neuropathy, which manifests as numbness and tingling sensations in the hands or fingers.
- Multiple Sclerosis: This disease affects the brain and spinal cord, with numbness often being one of the first symptoms experienced. Patients may encounter numbness even prior to a formal diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Other related symptoms can include vision problems, pain, fatigue, dizziness, balance issues, bladder dysfunction, cognitive impairment, and sexual dysfunction.
- Infections: Certain infections can lead to nerve inflammation and numbness, including hepatitis and shingles.
- Other Causes: Conditions such as alcohol use disorder, amyloidosis, ganglion cysts, Raynaud’s disease, and syphilis may also contribute to hand numbness.
When to See a Doctor
It is important to consult a healthcare professional if hand numbness persists for several days, spreads to other parts of the body, or begins after an injury or illness. The doctor will conduct a physical examination and take a comprehensive medical history, including the presence of symptoms, work environment, social habits like alcohol consumption, exposure to toxins, infectious disease risks, and any family history of neurological disorders. Depending on the situation, the doctor may recommend several tests, such as:
- Blood tests to check for conditions like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, kidney and liver disorders, and any signs of abnormal immune system activity.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis to identify antibodies associated with peripheral neuropathy.
- Electromyography (EMG) to assess electrical activity in the muscles.
- Nerve Conduction Velocity tests.
- Computed Tomography (CT) scans.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
Treatment for Hand Numbness
Successful treatment of hand numbness relies on accurate diagnosis and addressing the underlying causes. It is essential to note that peripheral nerve cells can regenerate if they have not died. For diabetes patients, managing blood sugar levels can slow the progression of diabetic neuropathy, and vitamin supplementation can aid those with deficiencies. General lifestyle recommendations include:
- Maintaining a healthy body weight.
- Avoiding exposure to toxins.
- Engaging in supervised physical activity.
- Consuming a balanced and nutritious diet.
- Refraining from alcohol use.
- Avoiding smoking, which can constrict blood vessels that supply peripheral nerves.
Video on Numbness During Sleep
For further insights into numbness experienced during sleep, please watch the accompanying video.