Understanding Numbness in the Hands
Numbness in the hands is a sensation that can feel abnormal or unsettling. Often referred to as paresthesia,
it may be accompanied by tingling—commonly described as a “pins and needles” feeling. This symptom
can result from various underlying conditions, ranging from harmless to serious.
Common Causes
Hand numbness can stem from numerous sources. The most typical cause is nerve compression or damage, which may result from
simple pressure—like sleeping awkwardly or leaning on your elbows too long. In some cases, growths or swellings might press on nerves, causing numbness.
Other nerve-related causes include:
Injury to nerves in the hand, arm, or neck
A herniated disc pressing on spinal nerves
Nerve pressure due to tumors, infections, or enlarged blood vessels
Carpal tunnel syndrome, often from repetitive wrist use
Ulnar nerve compression, often from resting elbows too long
Additionally, several medical conditions can lead to numb hands:
Diabetes-related poor circulation
Stroke
Migraine headaches
Thyroid problems
Shingles or herpes infections
Raynaud’s syndrome
Vasculitis
Lyme disease
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Other less common contributors include:
Animal or insect bites
Side effects of certain medications
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Imbalances in calcium, potassium, or sodium
Excessive alcohol consumption
Diagnosing the Cause
To pinpoint the reason for your hand numbness, a healthcare provider will first take a detailed
medical history and ask about accompanying symptoms. They may order tests such as:
Blood tests (to check for vitamin levels, thyroid function, toxins, etc.)
Imaging (CT scans, MRIs, X-rays)
Ultrasounds of blood vessels
Angiograms to examine blood flow
Lumbar punctures for nervous system analysis
Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function
These tests help identify or rule out serious issues like tumors or strokes.
Treatment Options
The treatment depends entirely on the cause. Options may include:
Medication changes if a drug is contributing to the symptom
Antibiotics or antivirals for infections
Vitamin or mineral supplements for deficiencies
Surgical procedures for structural issues, like tumors or carpal tunnel
Specialist referrals, including neurologists or rheumatologists
Home Remedies and Self-Care
Some mild or temporary cases can be managed at home:
OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Wearing hand splints
Applying heat or cold
Resting your hands from repetitive activity
Doing hand-strengthening exercises
Risks of Ignoring Hand Numbness
If the numbness is due to a temporary cause, there may be no long-term harm.
But if it signals a serious health issue, skipping treatment could lead to complications or permanent nerve damage.
Prevention Tips
You can reduce your risk by:
Managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
Taking regular breaks during repetitive hand tasks
Keeping up with routine checkups and lab tests
When to Seek Medical Help
If numbness lasts more than a few hours or keeps returning, consult a healthcare provider.
It may indicate a more serious problem, especially if it’s accompanied by:
Numbness in other areas
Paralysis, confusion, or slurred speech
Dizziness
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Skin rashes