What Causes Numbness in Hands?
October 5, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Numbness in the hands can be caused by a variety of factors, and it is often a symptom of an underlying medical condition or issue affecting the nervous system. Some common causes of numbness in the hands include:
- Pressure or Pinched Nerves: Compression or irritation of nerves in the neck, shoulder, or arm can lead to numbness in the hands. Conditions such as cervical spondylosis, thoracic outlet syndrome, or carpal tunnel syndrome can cause nerve compression.
- Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow to the hands can result in numbness. This can be due to conditions like Raynaud’s disease, blood clots, or atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries).
- Injuries: Trauma or injuries to the hands, wrists, or arms, such as fractures, dislocations, or nerve injuries, can cause temporary or chronic numbness.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: This is a condition that affects the peripheral nerves and can result from various causes, including diabetes, alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, infections, and certain medications.
- Repetitive Motion or Overuse: Activities that involve repetitive hand movements or prolonged use of vibrating tools can lead to numbness, as seen in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like multiple sclerosis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the nervous system and lead to numbness in the extremities, including the hands.
- Nerve Disorders: Certain nerve disorders, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome or Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, can cause numbness in the hands and other extremities.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: A deficiency in certain vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, can lead to peripheral neuropathy and numbness in the hands.
- Infections: Some infections, like Lyme disease, can cause nerve inflammation and subsequent numbness in the hands.
- Systemic Diseases: Conditions such as hypothyroidism or kidney disease can lead to nerve damage and numbness in various parts of the body, including the hands.
It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or recurrent numbness in your hands, as they can perform a thorough evaluation, including physical examinations and, if necessary, imaging tests like X-rays or nerve conduction studies. The underlying cause of the numbness will determine the appropriate treatment, which may range from addressing the underlying condition to physical therapy, medications, or surgical interventions, depending on the specific diagnosis.