What Are The Symptoms of Numbness In Hands?
September 9, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Numbness in the hands can be a concerning symptom that can be caused by various underlying medical conditions or factors. It is important to remember that numbness is often just one symptom and may be accompanied by other sensations or symptoms. Here are some common causes and associated symptoms of numbness in the hands:
- Nerve Compression or Pinched Nerves:
- Tingling and numbness: This sensation often occurs in specific areas, such as the fingers or parts of the hand.
- Pain: Numbness may be accompanied by pain, especially when pressure is applied to the affected area.
- Weakness: You may also experience weakness in the hand or difficulty gripping objects.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
- Numbness and tingling: Often occurs in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.
- Burning or pain: Symptoms may worsen at night.
- Peripheral Neuropathy:
- Numbness: Typically starts in the toes or fingers and spreads gradually.
- Burning or shooting pain: May be present.
- Loss of coordination: Can affect fine motor skills.
- Raynaud’s Disease:
- Numbness and coldness: Fingers may turn white, blue, or purple when exposed to cold temperatures or stress.
- Pain or throbbing: Symptoms often improve with warming.
- Brachial Plexus Injury:
- Numbness and weakness: Usually occurs in the entire arm or specific areas.
- Loss of sensation: Along with muscle weakness, this is common in severe cases.
- Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve in the Neck):
- Numbness: Typically radiates from the neck into the arm and hand.
- Neck pain: Often accompanies the numbness.
- Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA):
- Sudden numbness: Usually affects one side of the body, including the hand.
- Weakness: Often accompanies numbness.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS):
- Numbness and tingling: May occur in various parts of the body, including the hands.
- Muscle weakness: Can be a long-term symptom.
- Infections or Inflammatory Conditions:
- Numbness: Can occur as a result of inflammation affecting nerves.
- Fever and other signs of infection: May be present.
- Diabetes:
- Numbness and tingling: Often affects the feet and hands.
- Burning or shooting pain: May be experienced.
- Vitamin Deficiencies:
- Medication Side Effects:
- Some medications, like certain chemotherapy drugs, can cause numbness as a side effect.
If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent numbness in the hands or if the numbness is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include physical examinations, imaging tests, and blood work, to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing and potentially resolving the issue.