Tingling or numbness of the hands and fingers is a common occurrence that you may experience every once in a while. It can be caused by pressure on the nerves or blood vessels to the hand. For example, if you sleep on your side with your hand in an awkward angle, you may experience pins and needles when you wake up. In this situation, your hand “fell asleep” because of the pressure on the nerves and the restricted blood flow. The tingling sensation may last a few seconds or a few minutes, but it usually goes away on its own without any further problems.
While numbness and tingling can be benign and temporary, it may also be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. In fact, in some cases, it can be so severe and prolonged that it causes disability and hinders the patient’s ability to do daily tasks. Numbness and tingling in the hands can also put the patient at risk for injuries, because he or she may not feel pain as well. If the numbness and tingling in your hand persists for an extended period of time, and there is no clear cause, then it is a good idea to see your doctor.
Understanding the Causes of Hand Numbness & Tingling
General numbness and tingling in the hands and fingers is known as paresthesia. There are many possible causes for this condition. Depending on the situation, your doctor may need to conduct a physical examination and run some other tests to determine the nature and cause of the sensation. Blood tests, nerve conduction tests, toxicology screenings, and electrolyte level and thyroid functioning tests can be used to diagnose hand numbness and tingling.
Common causes of persistent numbness and tingling in the hands include:
- Diabetes
- Alcohol abuse
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Seizures
- Strokes
- Multiple sclerosis
If the numbness is classified as peripheral neuropathy (damage to the nerves in the affected hands), then diabetes could be the cause. Alcohol abuse can also cause peripheral neuropathy. In addition, carpal tunnel syndrome or anything that puts pressure on the nerves in your hands and fingers can cause prolonged numbness and a tingling sensation, as well as seizures, strokes, and multiple sclerosis.
Treatments for Numbness & Tingling in the Hands
Treatment for hand numbness and tingling depends on the nature and cause of the specific condition. Eating healthy, following a doctor-approved exercise regimen, and avoiding or limiting your alcohol consumption can provide natural remedies. If the numbness and tingling is caused by an injury or carpal tunnel syndrome, surgery or physical therapy can help reduce the amount of inflammation and pressure on the nerves in your hand.
Furthermore, hand numbness and tingling can be caused by vitamin deficiencies. Thus, taking vitamin supplements in addition to a healthy and nutritious diet could provide a solution to some patients. Doctors may prescribe therapy and medication to patients suffering from certain diseases that are causing hand numbness and tingling. Overall, treatment methods are aimed at providing a remedy for the underlying issues that are causing the numbness and tingling sensation, instead of just focusing on masking it. Patients should speak with their doctors and provide any information about health history and symptoms to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Call Atlanta Pain & Rehab (Southwest Atlanta) Today at (404) 620-4010
If you were injured in a car crash, work accident, or sports incident, our Atlanta accident rehab services can help. We have successfully treated hundreds of patients suffering from a variety of painful conditions. Our chiropractic services, medical pain relief, and physical therapy options can provide a solution to hand numbness and tingling, along with several other injuries and illnesses. With our compassionate and knowledgeable team, you can get the quality care and treatment you need.
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