Numbness

[Ita041982]

My left hand, thumb, and pointer finger are numb since yesterday. Why?

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

'Abnormal nerve sensations such as pins-and-needles, tingling, burning, prickling or similar feelings are all known as "paresthesias". Some cases are severe enough to be considered painful. Paresthesias usually result from nerve damage due to pressure, entrapment, or nerve diseases. Continued nerve damage can lead to finger numbness and permanent loss of feeling. Any abnormal sensation needs medical investigation.

Distinction as to which fingers are tingling is important to diagnosis. The main fingers are more likely to be affected by conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. The 4th and 5th fingers are affected by the ulnar nerve, which can be interrupted by pressure at the elbow or the chest area (e.g. thoracid outlet syndrome).

Parethesias in the hands and fingers can also be caused by broader diseases such as peripheral neuropathy (more common in the feet but hands can be affected) and various others. Correct diagnosis of the causes of finger paresthesias is important and treatment can often reverse the damage. '

'# Other medical conditions, including:

    * Carpal tunnel syndrome
    * Diabetes
    * Migraines
    * Multiple sclerosis
    * Seizures
    * Stroke
    * Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
    * Underactive thyroid

# Abnormal levels of calcium, potassium, or sodium in your body
# A lack of vitamin B12 or other vitamin
# Certain medications
# Toxic action on nerves, such as that from lead, alcohol, or tobacco
# Radiation therapy'

You could read more about this at the following link -
http://www.cureresearch.com/sym/tingling_fingers.htm#possible

Consult your doctor to find out the cause in your case.

Let us know if you need any other information.

Regards.

[bhups1]

Hi, this could be due to impingement of median nerve. Do you have a history of cervical spondylosis? Have you been investigated for carpal tunnel syndrome? Usually in these kinds of diseases, numbness or tingling sensations are perceived by the patient in the root supplied by that nerve.

How old are you? If numbness persists for more than a week do consult doctor.