Contents:
- Why hands go numb
- Why the left hand goes numb
- Why the right hand goes numb
- Why hands go numb during sleep
- What to do when your hands go numb
- What to do if your left hand goes numb
- What to do when both hands go numb
- What the condition is called when your hands go numb
- How to get rid of hand numbness
- Which doctor treats hand numbness
Hand numbness is a fairly common symptom that people of different ages experience. Sometimes it occurs after staying in an uncomfortable position for a long time or during sleep, and sometimes it appears without an obvious reason. In most cases, these sensations pass quickly, but if the numbness recurs or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to understand what it may be related to.
In this article, we will look at the main reasons why hands go numb, and we will also explain in which cases it is enough to change habits or your daily routine and when it is worth seeing a doctor.
Why hands go numb
Numbness occurs when the transmission of nerve impulses or the blood supply to the tissues is disrupted. As a result, tingling, a sensation of «pins and needles», reduced sensitivity, or weakness in the hands and fingers may appear.
Doctors at «Oxford Medical» explain that this is most often associated with temporary compression of nerves or blood vessels — for example, during prolonged staying in one position or working at a computer. Diseases may also be the cause, in particular pathologies of the cervical spine, disorders of peripheral innervation, or changes in metabolism.
Understanding why your hands go numb helps you pay attention to the symptoms in time and determine what to do next.
Why the left hand goes numb
Numbness of the left hand or forearm requires more careful attention, since it can sometimes be associated with cardiovascular disorders. With insufficient blood supply to the heart, discomfort may spread to the left hand, shoulder, or neck.
Other causes may include:
- impaired innervation due to changes in the cervical spine;
- prolonged tension of the shoulder girdle muscles;
- tunnel syndromes with nerve involvement.
If numbness occurs suddenly and is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, you should seek medical help immediately.
Why the right hand goes numb
Numbness of the right hand is more often associated with functional causes that arise as a result of daily strain. This is typical of working at a computer, prolonged use of gadgets, or performing repetitive movements.
Main factors:
- carpal tunnel syndrome;
- local compression of nerves in the forearm or shoulder area;
- overstrain of the muscles of the hand and forearm;
- poor posture while working.
If the symptoms recur or worsen, this may indicate persistent damage to nerve structures and requires diagnosis.
Why hands go numb during sleep
Numbness of the extremities during sleep most often occurs because of an incorrect body position. Compression of nerves or blood vessels at night leads to a temporary disturbance of sensitivity.
Among the causes are:
- sleeping with pressure on the hand or forearm;
- an unsuitable pillow height or firmness;
- tension in the neck after prolonged sitting during the day;
- changes in the cervical spine.
If numbness recurs regularly at night or does not go away after waking up, this may indicate deeper disorders and requires a doctor's consultation.
What to do when your hands go numb
If numbness occurs episodically and passes quickly, in most cases it is enough to adjust daily habits and reduce the strain on your hands.
The following actions may help:
- change the position of your hands and eliminate pressure;
- move your hand and fingers to restore sensitivity;
- relax the muscles of the forearm and shoulder girdle;
- adjust your position while working;
- ensure the correct body position during sleep.
If, however, the symptoms occur often, last longer, or are accompanied by weakness or pain, you should not limit yourself to self-help — it is necessary to see a doctor.
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What to do if your left hand goes numb
If your left hand goes numb, it is important first of all to assess your general condition and rule out dangerous symptoms.
These include:
- pain or pressure in the chest;
- difficulty breathing;
- dizziness or sudden weakness;
- pain spreading to the shoulder or neck.
If such manifestations are present, medical help should be sought immediately.
If the symptoms are limited only to numbness, it is worth paying attention to triggering factors — body position, strain, and duration of work. If the symptoms recur, an examination is necessary.
What to do when both hands go numb
Numbness of both extremities is more often associated with prolonged strain or general changes in the functioning of the nervous system. It is important to assess under what conditions the symptom occurs and whether there are accompanying manifestations.
You should pay attention to:
- the appearance of symptoms after sleep;
- the connection with prolonged work;
- discomfort in the neck;
- reduced strength or sensitivity.
In the case of episodic numbness, it is enough to normalize the balance of strain and rest. If, however, the symptoms become constant or progress, it is necessary to see a doctor to clarify the cause.
What the condition is called when your hands go numb
Numbness of the extremities is not a separate disease, but a symptom that may occur in various pathologies. The specific diagnosis is determined depending on the cause.
Most often, these may be:
- tunnel syndromes;
- intervertebral hernia;
- osteochondrosis of the cervical spine;
- protrusions or herniated intervertebral discs;
- polyneuropathies;
- circulatory disorders;
- endocrine disorders.
To establish an accurate diagnosis, an examination is necessary, since the same symptoms may have different origins.
How to get rid of hand numbness
To get rid of numbness, it is necessary to eliminate the cause that triggers it. If the symptom is associated with overload or body position, it is enough to change daily habits.
Main approaches:
- optimizing the workplace;
- regular breaks during work;
- exercises to improve mobility and blood circulation;
- monitoring the position of the neck and back.
In cases where numbness is associated with diseases, treatment is selected individually and may include drug therapy or other methods prescribed by a doctor.
If the symptom does not disappear or worsens, it is important not to postpone diagnosis.
Which doctor treats hand numbness
If your extremities go numb, you should see a neurologist. This specialist is responsible for diagnosing and treating disorders related to the nervous system.
During the consultation, a neurologist assesses the symptoms, their duration and location, and checks sensitivity and muscle strength. This makes it possible to determine the cause of numbness and choose the further tactics of examination and treatment.
Timely consultation with a specialist helps avoid complications and choose effective treatment.
The information in the article is provided for ознакомление and is not a guide to self-diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms of a disease appear, you should consult a doctor.
Sources:
US National Library of Medicine
