Persistent Numbness in Hands and Feet: When Should You Consult a Neurologist?
Have you ever felt a tingling feeling or numbness in your hands or feet after sitting in the position for too long? In cases this short-term "pins and needles" feeling goes away in a few minutes and is not a problem. However if the numbness happens again and again lasts for a time or comes with pain, weakness or trouble walking it might be a sign of a problem with the nerves, brain or spinal cord.
Persistent numbness should not be ignored. It might show that something is wrong with the nerves, brain or spinal cord. Conditions like neuropathy diabetes, vitamin problems, spinal issues and even stroke can cause numbness in the hands and feet. Getting help early can find the cause. Stop more problems from happening.
If you have repeated numbness or tingling talk to Dr. Iqbal Singh, a neurologist in Chandigarh and also a neurologist in Panchkula for a checkup and the right treatment.
What Is Persistent Numbness?
Persistent numbness is when the feeling in a part of the body is less or completely gone for a time or keeps coming back. Unlike the numbness that happens when a nerve is pressed persistent numbness might mean there is a problem with the system.
Some people feel numbness in their fingers or toes while others feel it in their whole hand, foot, arm or leg.
Common signs include:
*. A "pins and needles" feeling
* Burning or sharp pain
* Less feeling when touched
* Weakness in the hands or feet
* Trouble holding things
* Problems with balance when walking
* Feeling like you are wearing gloves or socks when you are not
These symptoms can happen slowly. Come on quickly depending on what is causing them.
# Common Causes of Persistent Numbness
1. Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is one of the common reasons for numbness in the hands and feet. It happens when the nerves that send signals from the brain, spinal cord and body become damaged.
Symptoms can include:
*. Burning pain
* Less feeling
* Weakness in the hands or feet
* Trouble walking
* Being more sensitive to touch
Diabetes is the cause of peripheral neuropathy but infections, autoimmune diseases, kidney problems, some drugs and too much alcohol can also hurt the nerves.
2. Diabetes-Related Nerve Damage
High blood sugar over time can hurt the nerves leading to diabetic. The symptoms usually start in the feet before moving to the hands.
People with diabetes should not ignore numbness because treating it early can slow the damage and make life better.
3. Vitamin Deficiencies
Nerves need nutrients, like Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin E.
Not having enough of these vitamins can cause:
* Numbness
* Tingling
* Weakness
* Tiredness
* Memory issues
* Poor movement control
These problems can often be fixed once they are found.
4. Nerve Compression
When a nerve is pressed it can't send signals properly. This often causes numbness, tingling, pain or weakness.
Common issues include:
* Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
* Cervical Spondylosis
* Herniated Disc
* Sciatica
The symptoms usually get worse with repeat actions. Sitting too long.
5. Stroke
Sudden numbness on one side of the body can be a sign of a stroke.
Go to the hospital away if numbness comes with:
* Face drooping
* Trouble talking
* Sudden weakness
* Problems with balance
* Vision issues
* Bad headache
Getting help quickly can make a big difference in recovery and lower the chance of long-term problems.
6. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. Numbness and tingling are often the signs.
Other warning signs might be:
* Blurred or double vision
* muscles
* Tiredness
* Balance problems
* Trouble walking
Finding it early helps control symptoms and slow the disease.
7. Poor Blood Circulation
Not enough blood flow can cause numbness in the hands or feet. Conditions like artery disease can cut down on blood flow leading to coldness, pain or tingling especially when moving around.
When Should You Consult a Neurologist?
Sometimes numbness after sitting or sleeping in one place is not a deal.. If the numbness keeps coming back or lasts a long time it is a good idea to see a neurologist especially if other symptoms are there.
You should see a doctor if you have:
* Numbness that lasts for hours or comes often
*. Burning that happens more and more
* Weakness in your arms or legs
* Trouble walking or staying balanced
* Lost control of your movement
* Numbness on one side of your body
* Sudden changes in vision or speech
* neck or back pain with numbness
* Problems, with your bladder or bowel
Ignoring these signs might make things worse and lead to more nerve problems.
How Is Persistent Numbness Diagnosed?
A neurologist will start by looking at your health and do a full check of your nerves to see how strong your muscles are, how you feel, your reflexes and how well you move.
Depending on what you feel more tests might be needed, like:
* Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) Study
* Electromyography (EMG)
* MRI of the Brain or Spine
* CT Scan (if needed)
* Blood tests for diabetes thyroid issues, infections and vitamin levels
These tests help find the cause and let the neurologist make a plan that works for you.
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