Numbness in hands: What causes it & when to concern

Numbness in hands is something we’ve all experienced at some point in our lives! Whether while sleeping or at some point during work, when we feel our hands numb, we might feel puzzled or even worried. However, when is numbness a worrisome sign?

What is numbness in the hands?

Numbness in hands is a loss of sensation or “tingling” in the hands, commonly known as pins and needles. It can be temporary or permanent, depending on the cause that triggers it.

In some cases, these cramps or tingling sensations we feel may simply result from a temporary compression of one or more nerves, such as when someone sleeps in a position that compresses a nerve in the hand.

In other cases, however, it may herald a more serious condition that requires medical intervention.

When is it observed?

It can be observed at various times, such as:

• During sleep
• During exercise
• During daily activities

In some cases, these tingling sensations may be temporary and disappear when the pressure on the nerve is relieved.

However, sometimes it can be continuous or recur regularly, which can be concerning.

Causes

There are many different causes for numbness in the hands, including neurological and cardiovascular problems, as well as metabolic disorders. Some of the most common ones are:

1. Carpal tunnel syndrome: This condition is caused by pressure on the median nerve, i.e., the nerve that passes through the wrist and controls sensation and movement in the fingers. It often occurs in people who work for hours on the computer or perform manual labor.
2. Peripheral neuropathy: It is caused by damage to the peripheral nerves, i.e., the nerves that control sensation and movement in the hands and feet.
3. Vitamin deficiencies: Vitamins E, B1, B6, B12, and niacin are essential for healthy nerves. Their deficiency often leads to a tingling sensation.
4. Pregnancy: Swelling that occurs in the body during pregnancy can put pressure on some nerves, resulting in numbness in the hands, feet, or fingers, especially upon waking up in the morning.
5. Anxiety: It can cause tingling in the hands, feet, fingers, or toes, as well as around the face and mouth. Characteristic cases include panic attacks and migraine with aura.
6. Systemic diseases: Some conditions, such as kidney disorders, liver disease, vascular damage, and blood disorders, can cause peripheral neuropathy.
7. Tarsal tunnel syndrome: It is due to pressure on the tibial nerve – the nerve that passes through the ankle and controls sensation and movement in the hand.
8. Raynaud’s disease: This condition is caused by the narrowing of blood vessels in the hands and feet in response to cold or stress.
9. Injury: For example, a bone dislocation may compress a nerve.
10. Stroke: Numbness is usually observed on one side of the body, which, in addition to the hand (left or right), affects the entire leg or half of the face.

Treatment

The treatment of hand numbness depends on the cause. Thus, therapy may include:

1. Medication
2. Physical therapy
3. Or even surgical intervention.

In some cases, treatment may involve the use of drugs to:

• Relieve pain,
• Restore nerve function,
• Address the underlying cause of numbness.

Of course, taking certain vitamins and minerals may improve the condition.

Food Supplements that may help include:

• B complex vitamins: they play a crucial role in nerve health, metabolism, and sensory perception.
• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): Pyridoxine may help reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Alpha-lipoic acid: It is considered an antioxidant that can be used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Additionally, it is often recommended for diabetic neuropathies.
• Vitamin B2: People with riboflavin (B2) deficiency often experience numbness in the hands or touch sensitivity.
• Acetyl-L-carnitine: It seems to reduce pain and act neuroprotectively in cases of peripheral neuropathy and mild carpal tunnel syndrome.

Additionally, external linseed oil massage seems to help.

When is numbness dangerous?

If numbness in your hands lasts for more than a few hours or if you notice that it comes and goes, you should seek immediate medical help.

It is particularly important to visit a doctor if your hands are numb and you have any of the following symptoms:

1. Numbness in other parts of your body
2. Paralysis
3. Confusion
4. Dizziness
5. Speech disturbances
6. Loss of bowel and/or bladder control
7. Rash

In conclusion

Numbness in hands most of the time is a harmless symptom caused by the compression of a nerve. In any case, if it persists for days or recurs in the same spot, it would be wise to contact your treating physician, as it may require immediate investigation.