We've all experienced numbness in our hands, as if we're being electrocuted, right? Most of the time, this happens when we sit in the same position or when we sleep with our hands pressed under our arms. At that time, the nerves are compressed and blood circulation is reduced. It usually goes away on its own after a while. However, sometimes this numbness in the hands can be a symptom of a more serious health problem. So today, let's talk about the main causes of numbness in the hands and what to do about it.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This is a very common cause of numbness in the hand. Simply put, in the wrist area of our hand, there is a small, narrow passage made of bones and tissues called the "Carpal Tunnel." The median nerve and other tissues that control the movement of our fingers pass through this passage.
If you do manual work continuously, for example, working on a computer for a long time, or if you have a job that requires constant movement, like in a garment factory, this passageway can become swollen and the nerve can become compressed.
If you think you may have this condition, look for these symptoms:
- Symptoms usually start gradually.
- Your thumb, index finger, and middle finger may feel tingly. Sometimes it can even be painful.
- Your hand may feel a little weak . Things in your hand may even fall to the ground.
- This numbness and pain may increase, especially at night .
If you have these symptoms, take a break from your work and rest your hands. Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms. Cold packs can also help reduce pain and swelling.
Remember, if these symptoms persist, interfere with your sleep at night, or interfere with your daily activities, you should definitely see a doctor. If left untreated, permanent damage to the nerves and muscles can occur.
Pinched Nerve
This is medically known as Cervical Radiculopathy. Simply put, this condition occurs when a nerve that comes out of the neck of our spine becomes compressed or pulled. This can be caused by an accident, a job that puts strain on the neck, a medical condition like arthritis, or even a spinal tumor.
When a nerve in the neck is pinched, in addition to numbness in the arm, symptoms such as:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Pain | A sharp, burning pain may radiate from the neck down the arm. |
| Numbness | You may feel a pins and needles sensation. |
| Muscle weakness | Your arm strength may decrease, making it difficult to lift heavy objects. |
Rest and painkillers may help during this time. However, if your symptoms don't improve after a few days, see your doctor. He or she may prescribe physical therapy, a neck brace, or other treatments.
Numbness caused by other health conditions
Numbness in the hands can be a symptom of many other diseases. Let's be a little more aware of that as well.
Migraine with Aura
Some people experience aura before a migraine attack. This can include visual changes, seeing streaks in front of their eyes, and numbness in their hands. These symptoms usually start about an hour before the headache starts and go away in less than an hour.
Diabetes
When blood sugar levels are high and uncontrolled over time, it can damage the nerves. This is called "diabetic neuropathy." This is characterized by numbness , which usually starts in the feet and can sometimes affect the hands. In addition to numbness, there are also symptoms such as a burning sensation and muscle weakness. If you have diabetes, it is important to talk to your doctor about these symptoms and to control your blood sugar levels.
Other Neurological Conditions
Numbness in the hands can also be a symptom of diseases that affect the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). In such cases, numbness in the hands, legs, and difficulty speaking can also occur.
Side effects of chemotherapy
Some chemotherapy drugs can damage nerves, causing numbness or pain in the hands, feet, and fingers. This is also called the "glove and stocking sensation" because it feels like you're wearing two thick gloves and two thick socks. Although this is a common side effect, tell your doctor if it's too much for you to do your daily activities.
Emergency Situations: These are not games!
Sometimes numbness in the hand can be a sign of a life-threatening emergency. Be very aware of these symptoms.
| Emergency situation | Features to look out for |
|---|---|
| Stroke |
If one or more of these symptoms appear at once, go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. |
| Heart Attack |
If you have these symptoms, it could be a heart attack. Go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. |
Numbness in the hand is not something we can ignore. The most important thing is to know the exact cause behind it and seek the necessary treatment.
Take-Home Message
- Most of the time, hand numbness occurs due to simple reasons, such as being in the same position, and it is temporary.
- If you work in a job that requires repetitive motion, you are at risk of developing a condition like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
- If numbness persists, is accompanied by pain, or interferes with daily activities, be sure to seek medical advice.
- If you experience sudden numbness in your hand, accompanied by symptoms such as facial drooping, difficulty speaking, or chest pain, go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately, as it could be a sign of a stroke or heart attack.
- If you have a chronic disease like diabetes, keeping your blood sugar levels well controlled can help prevent nerve damage.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න