What to do with finger numbness. Why does finger numbness occur? Numbness of thumb and index finger

Once again, waking up from intense tingling in numb palms and fingers, it is worth asking the question - why do my hands go numb?

Symptoms that are harmless at first glance, quickly disappearing with a change in body position, may indicate nutritional flaws, but are more often heralds of “systemic” diseases.

Hand numbness may indicate a serious illness

Among the causes of temporary numbness of the upper and lower extremities - arms and legs - are conditions in which there is a restriction for normal blood flow or there is damage to nerve fibers.

Incorrect posture during the day - sitting cross-legged or cycling for a long time causes compression of the nerves of the lumbosacral spine, and - the result - "creeping goosebumps" in the toes or feet.

Crossing the arms over the chest obstructs the flow of arterial blood, causing a feeling of coolness in the hands or tingling in the fingers.
There are many reasons why hands go numb during sleep:

If the symptoms do not disappear

In the cases described above, getting rid of unpleasant symptoms will bring a simple change in body position during sleep and the presence of loose clothes for sleeping.

After all, some diseases are successfully "disguised" under harmless symptoms. So, if, in the absence of significant physical activity, the hands go numb, the cause may be a pinched nerve.

Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine can cause numbness of the hands

Why are my hands still numb?

Among other factors of "discomfort" symptoms - obliterating endarteritis - a formidable disease that manifests itself as a lesion of the vessels of the extremities.

Numbness of the left hand, sometimes indicating inflammation of the ulnar nerve, often portends a stroke and "heart" ailments.

Regarding why the right hand goes numb, primary and secondary factors of unpleasant symptoms are distinguished.

Among the primary are:

• Compression of the median nerve, or carpal tunnel syndrome. Three fingers - thumb, index and middle - are most vulnerable to compression of the median nerve. An ailment, one of the causes of which is prolonged work at a table or a computer that causes severe pain and eventually leads to loss of sensation and immobilization of the hand;
• Vitamin B12 deficiency, responsible for the normal functioning of nerve fibers;
• Raynaud's disease or impaired blood flow in the area of ​​the hands.

You will learn all the details about the causes of numbness of the hands from the video:

It occurs as a result of prolonged stress, alcohol or nicotine poisoning, with hypothermia, or vice versa, after prolonged exposure to the sun. Sometimes the disease "pulls" blue fingers and a feeling of coolness in them.

Among the secondary factors, neuropathy is especially distinguished - a “failure” in the functioning of the nerve channels that develops as a result of atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus or rheumatoid arthritis.

Hands often go numb during pregnancy, the reason for this is fluid retention and the presence of multiple local edema.

Why are my fingers numb?

Numbness, slight tingling and crawling sensations in the fingers or their tips also signal systemic “malfunctions”. Unpleasant symptoms usually occur in one finger, at night or in the morning, after waking up, less often in 2-3 fingers at the same time.
Each finger of the hand is “associated” with a specific organ, and in order to find out the reasons why the fingers go numb, consider this “relationship” in more detail:

• If the little fingers on the hands go numb- You should check the work of the cardiovascular system. In this case, pain may appear in the area from the little finger to the inside of the forearm. Also among the causes of discomfort are neuropathy of the ulnar nerve, syndrome of the small pectoral or scalene muscles, infringement of the nerve roots by the intervertebral hernia;
• Violation of the tactile abilities of the ring finger also indicates damage to the ulnar nerve. Sometimes his numbness is associated with compression of the small branches of the nerves or the occurrence. When pain in the neck is added to uncomfortable symptoms, spreading along the elbow or along the front of the chest, this is a sign of tunnel syndromes;

  What is tunnel syndrome - you will learn from the video:
  

• Forefinger most involved in daily work. In case of numbness, its musculoskeletal system should be examined, as well as the presence of a fungal infection of the nails should be excluded;
• Middle finger numbness- a signal of malfunctions in the work of the heart. Simultaneous numbness of the ring and back of the middle finger occurs with diseases of the elbow joint, but may be the result of alcohol or nicotine intoxication;
• thumb numbness, especially if, along with it, the index “endures” - a signal of overload of the neuromuscular apparatus or.

The main reasons why the tips of the fingers on the hands go numb, especially if they get cold, are a violation of the blood supply to the hands that occurs with osteochondrosis, polyneuropathy, infringement of the median nerve, thrombosis of the upper extremities or blockage of cerebral vessels.

To treat or not to treat?

Having studied the probable reasons why the fingers go numb, you should worry about what to do with unpleasant symptoms.

So, if the manifestation of symptoms is insignificant and occurs at night, you should check the correct selection of the pillow and mattress, as well as the position of the head and torso in a dream - they should be located in the same axis.

A healthy person does not have "favorite" positions - he falls asleep in any position of the body, and sleep comes quickly enough.

Pay attention to foods rich in B vitamins, especially sources of vitamin B12 - beef liver, heart, tongue, chicken and rabbit meat, dairy products and fish (herring, sardines, trout, chum salmon).

You will learn all the details about vitamin B12 from the video:

Take advantage of folk remedies, for example, mix 0.5 cups of sugar and the same amount of vegetable oil. Massage the sore spots with the mixture, moving in a spiral. After that, hold your hand in warm water with the addition of salt (2-3 tablespoons of salt per 1 liter of water).

If the "change of position", dietary adjustments and procedures do not work - it's time to visit a therapist.

Before a visit to him, analyze whether during the day pain in the lower back or neck bothers you, how active you are physically, whether the diet is complete.

The doctor will begin the examination with pressure indicators on both hands. The difference in numbers may indicate cerebrovascular accidents, and the next step is to consult a vascular surgeon.

Also, with an increasing violation of sensitivity in all fingers, the doctor may suspect the consequences of endocrine or immune disorders or cardiovascular diseases. You may need to study blood counts and consult specialists - a cardiologist, neurologist, vertebrologist and chiropractor.

Conclusion

Hands, and especially fingers, are a kind of indicators of the state of body systems. Many organs send the first alarm signals through them. By listening to them, you can prevent serious health problems.

The content of the article:

Finger numbness is a condition in which a person stops feeling fingers and/or toes. It can be caused both simply by a long stay of the limbs in an uncomfortable position, and by pathologies of a different nature. In the first case, the situation is resolved by changing the position to a comfortable one, after which the feeling of numbness quickly passes, while the second requires a responsible search for the cause.

Why do fingers go numb

There are many diseases, the development of which provokes such a symptom as loss of sensation in the limbs. Most often, doctors register such conditions with migraines, multiple sclerosis, osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernia, circulatory disorders, diabetes mellitus, immunodeficiency states, and nerve damage of one nature or another. Also, fingers often go numb due to a hereditary factor.

Why do fingers go numb

In turn, among the most likely causes that provoke numbness in the limbs in general, there are the most likely factors for the disappearance of the sensitivity of the fingers and toes in particular.

As for the hands, they are:

• awkward position. We mentioned this situation at the beginning of the article. We repeat, if the numbness is caused by a long stay of the hand in an uncomfortable position, there is no pathology here. Please note that the condition in this case passes quickly, accompanied by tingling.
• Osteochondrosis. One of the most common causes of loss of sensation in the fingers is a pinched nerve in the spine. Usually this situation is observed with osteochondrosis, but another similar disease can also cause it.
• carpal tunnel syndrome. This syndrome usually occurs when working at a computer for a long time. The condition has a curious pattern of development: first, sensitivity disappears in the thumb, then smoothly flows to others - the index, middle fingers, etc. The syndrome may be accompanied by tingling and pain.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency. Another common cause of loss of sensation in the hands is a deficiency of vitamin B12 or nicotinic acid. This vitamin is extremely important for the correct functioning of the nervous system; with its deficiency, not only various violations in its work are recorded, but also general weakness, arrhythmia. In addition, a person is constantly in an irritated state.
• Raynaud's disease. A particular symptom of the disease is a violation of the blood supply to the arteries of the hands. To understand that numbness is caused by this disease, you need to pay attention to additional symptoms - rapid freezing of the limbs, blue hands from cold and / or excitement.

Sometimes loss of sensation in the hands is associated with infections, frostbite, and severe fatigue. There are also situations when numbness is the result of a serious injury that caused, among other things, damage to the nerves. Timely treatment is especially important here, since the loss of sensitivity will spread rapidly - at first, numbness will be present only in the fingers, then it will spread to the palms and go up the arms.

Why do my toes go numb

1. Disorders in the work of the cardiovascular system. Failures in the cardiovascular system cause vascular pathologies, one of which is arterial obstruction, which provokes a loss of sensitivity.
2. Intervertebral hernia. With this disease, compression of the nerve roots is observed, which causes a spasm of the tissues, and already it causes a loss of sensitivity. As a rule, the condition is accompanied by a sensation of cottony legs, and goosebumps run through the body.
3. Thromboangiitis. This disease is accompanied by a decrease in the lumen of the vessels and, accordingly, a violation of the blood supply in the legs. Most common in smokers.
4. Venous insufficiency. In this situation, the development of loss of sensitivity is associated with various vein diseases: varicose veins, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, etc.

Also quite often the cause of numbness of the toes is radiculoneuritis, metabolic disorders, oncology, diabetes mellitus and tuberculosis of the spine.

Why do fingers go numb first on the hands, then on the legs

• Endarteritis. This disease is associated with damage to the vessels, they are greatly narrowed, which means that their blood supply is disrupted. With progression, the vessels can completely overlap, which ends with gangrene and complete tissue death.
• neuropathy. Damage to the nervous system, accompanied by severe intoxication of the body. In this situation, not only numbness of the fingers is observed, but also severe itching and burning. Neuropathy is commonly caused by diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.
• Stroke. Loss of sensitivity develops due to impaired cerebral blood supply.

The main symptoms accompanied by numbness of the fingers

Unfortunately, it is quite difficult to talk about some general symptoms, apart from loss of sensitivity, because very different diseases cause the condition. For example, let's look at a few situations:

1. With osteochondrosis, numbness is accompanied by pain in the joints, in advanced cases - atrophy of the limbs.
2. With arthritis, reddening of the skin and a characteristic burning sensation are observed.
3. For Raynaud's disease, a combination of numbness with a feeling of coldness in the joints is typical.
4. In carpal tunnel syndrome, loss of sensation is accompanied by tingling and pain.

Please note that the accompanying symptoms can be not only local, but also general. Weakness, headache, incoordination of movements, etc. may be observed. These signs must also be reported at the appointment with a specialist.

What to do if fingers go numb

Therapy for loss of sensation in the limbs is a complex task. As you already understood, the cause of the disease is determined first of all. The second task is to remove the manifestations of the problem in the form of numbness and other unpleasant accompanying symptoms. And if, with regard to the treatment of the very cause of the disease, the methods of therapy are very different, then to relieve the symptoms, it is possible to identify the main patterns.

What medications to use for numb fingers

These drugs can relieve pain and improve movement:

• If the symptoms are implicit, analgesics of the “soft” group are prescribed - Pentalgin, its analogues (Tempalgin, Paracetamol) and other drugs based on salicylic acid.
• If severe pain accompanies loss of sensation, stronger analgesics are prescribed in the form of ointments, most often Ibuprofen. Often, its good analogues are also prescribed - Meloxicam, Diclofenac, etc. However, the doctor must clearly stipulate that they should not be taken for more than 14 days.
• In the case when the pain is unbearable, it is necessary to prescribe strong narcotic drugs, they are taken according to a strict scheme and under the constant supervision of a specialist.

What folk remedies to use if fingers go numb

1. Pickled cucumber and hot pepper lotion. Take pickles (2 pieces), cut into large cubes, add whole pods of red hot pepper (2 pieces) and pour the mixture with vodka (500 ml). Insist for a week, and then, with an “attack” of loss of sensitivity, rub this lotion with a cotton swab on problem areas.
2. Rubbing on camphor alcohol. Another good rubbing can be made from ammonia and camphor alcohol. The proportion is as follows: in a liter of water you need to dissolve ammonia (50 grams) and camphor (10 ml), and then add sea salt (1 tablespoon). Rubbing to carry out during an attack.
3. Vessel cleanser. A considerable part of the diseases leading to the development of loss of sensitivity is associated with a violation of the functioning of blood vessels, and therefore one cannot do without a medicine that cleans the blood vessels. To prepare it, put coarsely chopped parsley root (250 grams) and celery (250 grams), as well as a lemon (half) in a blender. You need to grind it properly (a meat grinder replaces a blender well), put it in a jar and eat 3-4 teaspoons every day, regardless of the meal. Keep the medicine in the refrigerator, otherwise it will spoil quickly.
4. Therapeutic baths. Special therapeutic baths help to relieve numbness. A bath with honey works best. One procedure will require 4-5 tablespoons of honey, and it takes 15-30 minutes to take such a “sweet” bath. It is especially good for treating numbness in the toes.

Note! All of these folk remedies should not be used without first consulting a doctor, especially when it comes to a serious problem, which, of course, is numbness of the limbs. Self-activity in this matter can lead not to an improvement, but to a deterioration in the condition.

Special exercises for numb fingers

• cams. Lie on the floor on your back, raise your hands up in front of you and begin to squeeze your fingers into fists and unclench them. Do 15-20 times.
• shaking. Stay on the floor, do not lower your arms and raise your legs at a right angle. Start performing light amazing movements with all limbs - large amplitude and sharpness are not needed, do everything carefully and smoothly. Do 2-3 minutes.
• Rink. Sit down, straighten your back, put a rolling pin under the gluteal muscles and roll it, trying to maintain balance. Do 2-3 minutes.
• Walk. Stand up, stretch on your toes and walk around the room, then transfer the weight to your heels and walk around the room like them. Do 1-2 minutes for each position.

Note! The complex must be performed regularly, and preferably twice a day. It is especially important to do exercises before going to bed, because in the evening and at night the fingers become numb more often than during the day.

Physical therapy for numb fingers

Let's look at the most popular procedures:

1. Cold exposure. A very simple procedure, which consists in exposing the problem areas to cold. Despite the primitiveness of the technique, it has a lot of beneficial effects: it relieves inflammation and swelling, relaxes, reduces pain, and prevents convulsions.
2. laser therapy. A more modern procedure, which consists in the effect of a laser light flux on tissues. As a result, powerful regeneration processes are launched, the work of all body systems is getting better.
3. Magnetic Therapy. In this case, the effect is a magnetic field. This procedure improves brain and heart function. There is also an overall beneficial effect on all physiological parameters.
4. electrophoresis. Quite a long time ago, but very relevant in this case, the procedure, as it has a positive effect on nerve conduction, which in many cases is the cause of the development of numbness.

Massage is always relevant. Of course, we are talking about special treatment techniques and the right impact on problem areas.

To date, there are many pathologies, one of the symptoms of which is numbness of the fingers. Depending on the possible causes, this symptom can manifest itself as minor discomfort or severe pain. There is an opinion that numbness of the fingers is more typical for older people, but the appearance of this symptom is possible at a young age. If the fingers become numb with a certain regularity, the patient should consult a doctor to identify and prevent possible serious diseases.

What is finger numbness

The condition in which the fingertips become numb is called paresthesia. This is not an independent disease, but a secondary symptom of pathologies of various organs. The main sign of this phenomenon is the loss of sensitivity of the fingers, which is accompanied by numbness and tingling, which eventually turns into the so-called "goosebumps" on the skin. Paresthesia, as a rule, occurs in the morning, after waking up, it can signal the presence of serious abnormalities in a person (osteochondrosis, articular pathologies, diseases of the cardiovascular system).

In addition, a condition in which limbs become numb can often occur due to an uncomfortable posture, for example, in a dream or while working at a computer. The unusual position of the body contributes to squeezing the arteries, which leads to impaired blood circulation and, as a result, a malfunction of the nerve endings. This is where paresthesia comes from. With regular prolonged numbness in certain areas of the limbs, a specialist consultation is necessary, since this is a symptom of a number of serious disorders.

An experienced doctor, after reviewing the history, questioning the patient and analyzing the data obtained, can assert the presence of a particular pathology that caused paresthesia of the extremities. After determining the possible root cause, the therapist will refer the patient to a visit to narrow specialists (neurologist, endocrinologist, cardiologist, neurologist). In some cases, additional diagnostic measures are necessary:

• magnetic resonance imaging of the spine, head, neck;
• computed tomography;
• analysis of blood, urine;
• dopplerography of vessels;
• determining the content of sugar in the blood;
• electrocardiograms, ultrasound of the heart.

Why do fingers go numb

There are many reasons why hands go numb, from lack of vitamins to severe pathologies of the cardiovascular system. Some of the possible reasons:

1. Tight clothing or an uncomfortable position during work can cause paresthesia of the hands, sometimes the patient feels cool in the limbs. In order to stop the discomfort, you should change the uncomfortable position, do a little warm-up, take a contrast shower (a change in water temperature will improve blood circulation).
2. With osteochondrosis, degenerative-dystrophic disorders of the articular, cartilaginous tissues of the intervertebral discs are observed. Changes in the cervical spine can provoke hand paresthesia. A characteristic feature of osteochondrosis is the defeat of only one limb. In addition, an experienced specialist in the nature and localization of unpleasant sensations (depending on which particular finger on the hand goes numb) is able to locate the focus of the pathology.
3. Raynaud's disease is a specific reaction (narrowing) of small vessels of the extremities to external stimuli (vibrations at work, nervous overload), which is accompanied by a change in the color of the skin and numbness of both extremities. Pathologies are more susceptible to young women. Patients with Raynaud's disease often suffer from infectious pathologies, when they get into the cold they immediately freeze.
4. Neurological disorders occur due to the influence of negative factors on the nerve plexuses in the hands, accompanied by numbness and tingling, the strength and frequency of which depend on the degree of damage to the nerve fibers. As a rule, polyneuropathy develops against the background of iron deficiency anemia, beriberi, and infectious pathologies of various nature. Diabetes mellitus, alcoholism can cause organic disorders of nerve endings in the limbs.
5. Blockage of blood vessels by a clot (thrombosis) leads to vascular damage, insufficient supply of nutrients to the upper limbs, which causes numbness and tingling. Over time, paresthesia becomes pronounced and extends to the entire arm. If this condition does not go away after 1-2 hours, you should immediately consult a doctor - this may signal a complete blockage of the vessel, which, without timely medical assistance, can cause tissue necrosis and loss of a limb.
6. Symptoms of cerebral thrombosis (stroke) are numbness of the fingers of one hand, headache, high blood pressure. If these signs appear, the patient must urgently consult a specialist, since a stroke is fatal.
7. Anemia, accompanied by a deficiency of iron and hemoglobin, can lead to disruption of the nerve processes of the extremities.
8. Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterized by pinching of the nerve in the wrist area, accompanied by swelling of the fingers and pain. As a rule, this disorder affects people who spend a lot of time in one position, in this case, due to prolonged tension in the hands, blood circulation is disturbed, congestion is observed.
9. Alcohol or nicotine intoxication can provoke paresthesia of the upper or lower extremities.
10. The lack of certain vitamins (for example, vitamin B12) can cause a condition in which the fingers go numb.
11. Systemic pathologies of the joints of the extremities of an inflammatory nature (arthritis, arthrosis, rheumatism), injuries, diseases of the endocrine system can cause numbness of the extremities.

Women during pregnancy often complain of paresthesia of the extremities, pain, tingling and other symptoms up to loss of sensitivity. This phenomenon occurs due to hormonal changes in the body of the expectant mother, it requires examination and special control, since it threatens with serious complications. As a rule, paresthesia of the working hand is observed (for the right-hander - the right, for the left-hander - the left) due to increased everyday stress.

At night

If numbness of the limbs regularly manifests itself in a dream, there is a possibility of cervical osteochondrosis or other diseases of the spine. As a rule, the little fingers or middle fingers lose their sensitivity. In addition, nocturnal paresthesias often occur due to polyneuropathy and thrombosis, which can provoke a stroke, therefore, if this symptom appears, the patient should immediately visit a doctor, do a computed tomography to rule out pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

Numb hands and fingers

If symmetrical paresthesia of the hands of both hands is observed, there is reason to assume neurological diseases or neuropathy (a pathology associated with damage to small vessels in diabetes). In addition, the causes of numbness of the limbs in this case may be metabolic pathologies, vitamin deficiency, or a lack of other useful substances.

With paresthesia of the left hand, there is a possibility of diseases of the cardiovascular system. Numbness of the right limb, as a rule, indicates overstrain due to monotonous work (needlework, writing texts, working at a computer). Paresthesia of the fingertips often signals beriberi and micronutrient deficiencies. The patient should include in his diet more fresh vegetables and fruits containing vitamins A, E, group B.

In the morning

Often, numbness is observed in patients in the morning, after waking up, and, as a rule, occurs due to an uncomfortable posture in a dream or squeezing the arm. In this case, it is necessary to perform several warm-up movements to restore normal blood circulation. But numbness in the morning can also appear for other reasons - only a doctor can determine the primary factor.

Fingers and toes

Numbness of the upper and lower extremities indicates a possible pinched nerve or osteochondrosis of the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine. In addition, paresthesia of the arms and legs indicates a violation of blood circulation, the causes of which may be various pathologies of the cardiovascular and other body systems.

Hands go numb from elbow to fingertips

Numbness of the hands to the very elbow signals serious diseases of the elbow joint or pathologies of the cardiovascular system. The patient should immediately consult a specialist, even if such paresthesia occurs rarely and passes quickly. In addition, osteochondrosis of the thoracic or cervical spine, pinching of the nerve processes can cause hand numbness.

Ring finger on right hand

Wearing a tight wedding ring in many cases causes numbness of the ring finger on the right hand. In addition, factors affecting the occurrence of paresthesia are injuries of the hand or forearm, ischemic spasm, or ulnar nephritis. With tunnel syndrome, numbness of the ring finger is accompanied by pain in the neck, which spreads along the elbow or along the front of the chest.

little fingers

A tingling sensation in the little fingers indicates a number of pathologies of the musculoskeletal system: osteochondrosis of the cervical and thoracic spine, carpal tunnel syndrome (pinching of the median nerve), compression of the nerve by an intervertebral hernia, syndrome of the pectoralis minor or scalene muscles. In addition, discomfort in the little fingers sometimes indicates problems of the cardiovascular system or neuropathy of the ulnar nerve.

Middle finger

Paresthesia that occurs in the middle finger signals possible problems in the heart area. In this case, the simultaneous numbness of the ring and middle fingers indicates pathologies of the elbow joint or neuropathy of the ulnar nerve. Nicotine or alcohol intoxication can cause numbness of the middle finger.

Large

Paresthesia of the thumbs, as a rule, occurs due to a long stay in an uncomfortable position, but may signal more serious disorders (for example, moderate and severe cervical osteochondrosis). In addition, the cause is often a tunnel syndrome that occurs in people working at a computer. An effective method of dealing with discomfort is a professional massage. Numbness of the thumb and forefinger at the same time indicates an overstrain of the neuromuscular apparatus.

pointing

Numbness of the index finger is a widespread phenomenon that occurs for many reasons: interosseous nerve syndrome, osteochondrosis or other diseases of the cervical spine, carpal tunnel syndrome. If paresthesia occurs, it is necessary to examine the bone-articular structure of the limb and examine it for nail fungus to exclude the presence of an inflammatory process. The index finger is more involved in daily activities than others, so discomfort in this area should be taken seriously.

Possible consequences

In general, the possible consequences of this pathology depend on the causes that caused the disease. The lack of proper treatment for numbness of the limbs can lead to a complete loss of sensation in the limb, serious diseases of some organs and systems. The prevention of numbness consists in maintaining a mobile lifestyle, proper nutrition and timely treatment of the pathologies present.

What to do if fingers go numb

The basis of therapeutic measures aimed at eliminating numbness is a mobile lifestyle and proper nutrition. Any treatment is carried out exclusively for its intended purpose and under the supervision of a specialist. Depending on the established causes, there are different methods of getting rid of this phenomenon:

• First of all, it is recommended to wear comfortable, loose clothing to avoid squeezing the nerve endings and blood vessels. In addition, patients whose professional activity consists in sedentary work, it is necessary to periodically change the position of the body and do a warm-up.
• In case of numbness due to osteochondrosis, the treatment consists of physiotherapy, massage and other therapeutic measures.
• With a lack of vitamins, a patient whose fingers go numb should change their diet and nutritional principles to make up for the lack of nutrients.

Therapeutic measures consist in taking several types of drugs: anti-inflammatory drugs, chondroprotectors, muscle relaxants. In addition, medicines are widely used that can restore innervation (connection with the central nervous system) and blood supply to the extremities. Performing special physical exercises and physiotherapy procedures also help to get rid of numbness.

Video

The situation when it reduces the hands or lose sensitivity and the fingers on the right hand go numb is familiar to many. This happens for various reasons. For example, numbness of the fingers on the right hand may be associated with professional activities. This syndrome is often observed in hairdressers, musicians, programmers. But often such a symptom is evidence of a pathological process in the body and requires timely diagnosis and treatment.

In medical practice, such a condition as numbness is termed "hypesthesia". Taking into account the cause of the occurrence of such a syndrome, a neurologist, rheumatologist, endocrinologist or traumatologist are involved in the treatment of pathology. Experts identify a number of factors provocateurs that cause this unpleasant phenomenon:

As a syndrome, numbness most often accompanies such ailments as:

• rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis;
• osteochondrosis of the spine (cervical);
• hernias that form in the intervertebral discs;
• violation of blood circulation in the limbs;
• ischemic forms of stroke;
• pathology of the heart and blood vessels;
• carpal tunnel syndrome;
• schizophrenia, Raynaud's disease.

These diseases are manifested by symptoms in the form of hypesthesia more often than others. Moreover, by the nature of numbness and its localization, an experienced specialist can accurately diagnose a concomitant disease and begin its treatment.

What does hypoesthesia say?

Finger numbness is a rather alarming sign. After all, everything in our body is interconnected and such a symptom may indicate the development of various diseases. Moreover, depending on which fingers on the hand go numb, you can understand what causes the pathological condition.

Ring finger and little finger

The ring finger on the right hand and the little finger go numb in those cases when the nerve in the elbow joint becomes inflamed, or when it is subjected to some kind of mechanical effect for a long time. Such numbness is typical for catering workers, namely, waiters who constantly work with trays.

In addition to the ulnar nerve, the wrist can be the source of the problem. A characteristic symptom develops with the same type of load on it, overlapping or pinching of nerves and blood vessels. From a professional point of view, at risk are PC operators, painters, hairdressers, seamstresses, knitters, musicians and other workers whose wrists are subjected to high daily loads.

This phenomenon has neuropathic roots and, in principle, if there is no inflammation, it is corrected by special exercises, kneading massages and limiting the same type of load. But, this phenomenon is not taken seriously, it should not be, since neuropathy of the ulnar nerve or carpal nerve canals can lead to atrophy of the nervous and muscle tissues and limit the movement of the hand.

Thumb

Arthritis, arthrosis, tumors - that's why the thumb on the right hand goes numb. But in addition to these ailments, the median nerve, which is subjected to compression loads, which may well have a mechanical origin, is also responsible for such a manifestation of hypesthesia. Among the professional occupations, this is, first of all, the work of a computer mouse, jewelry, the profession of a watchmaker or pianist.

What tumor processes can cause thumb numbness? Experts call the following pathologies:

• hemangiomas are malignant formations from atrophied capillaries;
• neurofibromas are benign tumors that originate from dead cells of the sheath of nerve fibers.

In addition, legamentosis of the transverse muscle ligaments of a stenosing nature, which completely block the impulse from the nerve fibers to the endings, become a common cause of this type of numbness. And this happens as a result of excessive loads. That is, a similar pathology can be obtained if you carry heavy bags and bags with groceries every day, or if you tensely squeeze the steering wheel when driving a car.

The reasons why the fingertips on the right hand go numb are the most. This list can start with fairly harmless provoking factors - such as uncomfortable body position in a dream, and end with quite serious illnesses.

To provoke a loss of sensitivity in the fingertips can:

• sprains, osteochondrosis, dislocations and injuries of the vertebrae and intervertebral elements of the cervical region;
• acute iron deficiency in the body (anemia),
• diabetes mellitus, occurring in a latent form;
• pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas);
• Raynaud's syndrome;
• malfunctions in the functions of the glands responsible for the processes of producing internal secretion;
• all types of inflammatory and degenerative lesions of the joints of the fingers;
• stagnation of venous blood and thrombophlebitis;
• arterial hypertension and hypotension;
• any neurosomatic disorders and all neuropathic pathologies.

With such manifestations of hypesthesia, you should definitely see specialists and undergo the most complete examination of the body.

Forefinger

If the index finger becomes numb and loses sensitivity, this directly signals that not everything is fine with health.

This symptom is a sign of one of the following diseases:

• epicondylosis;
• arthritis;
• arthrosis;
• neurological diseases;
• pre-stroke or pre-infarction conditions;
• cardiac pathologies;
• obstruction in the renal canals;
• polyneuropathic disorders;
• radial nerve injury.

An indicator such as loss of sensitivity in the index finger is a rather serious symptom, especially if it does not go away with kneading and lasts more than 5-10 minutes. If such manifestations appear, you should immediately contact a cardiologist, endocrinologist and neurologist, and if these specialists do not find anything, you should undergo a complete detailed examination of the body.

Numbness is an unpleasant symptom, and in the case when the pathology overtakes the middle finger, it is also very painful. With this manifestation of hypesthesia, the finger completely loses sensitivity, while the palm itself literally twists. The sensations are very similar to those when cramping a leg. This manifestation of pathology directly indicates the presence in the body of such ailments as:

• atherosclerosis and other vascular diseases, including those associated with an excess of "bad" cholesterol in the blood;
• vascular endarteritis in the upper extremities, which develops as a result of regular hypothermia;
• cardiac ischemia;
• angina;
• carpal tunnel syndrome acquired as a result of injury to the hand or due to regular exercise (as a rule, this symptom develops in professional athletes, especially weightlifters, discus throwers, pole vaulters);
• inflammation of the median nerve;
• total lack of vitamins of groups "A" and "B" in the body.

Which doctor should I contact if my fingers are numb?

Where can you get an MRI

What to do if the fingers on the hand go numb? It is necessary to undergo a medical examination as soon as possible. And the sooner a string of medical offices is completed, the sooner the diagnosis will be made, the reason for which hypesthesia manifests itself will be identified, and, accordingly, eliminated. And along with the disease, the symptoms will also go away.

In order to understand the cause of hypesthesia and get rid of the discomfort and pain associated with numbness, at the initial stage, you should consult with a local therapist. After examining and clarifying the accompanying symptoms, the doctor will refer the patient for an examination, which includes:

• radiography of the cervical spine;
• CT (computed tomography);
• a number of blood tests, both biochemistry and general;
• electroneuromyography;
• echoencephalography (EchoEG);
• dopplerography of the vessels of the neck and spine.

Based on the results of the examination, the correct diagnosis will be made, and the patient himself will be referred for further treatment to narrow specialists:

• vertebrologist;
• endocrinologist;
• immunologist;
• cardiologist;
• neurologist.

Only after the main cause has been eliminated, the unpleasant symptoms associated with numbness of the fingers will disappear.

Treatment Methods

The treatment regimen in each case is selected individually and depends on the severity of the underlying disease that causes numbness of the fingers. So, with osteochondrosis of the cervical region or tunnel syndrome, in addition to drug treatment, a course of exercise therapy and massage of the collar zone are excellent.

The main scheme for the treatment of concomitant diseases is supplemented with the intake of vitamin-mineral complexes and physiotherapy sessions. For example, magnetotherapy, laser treatment and ultrasound help to normalize blood circulation in the fingers. Non-traditional methods are widely used - manual techniques, hirudotherapy (treatment with leeches), acupuncture.

As preventive measures, doctors recommend taking breaks more often during monotonous work associated with a load on the hands, normalizing nutrition, introducing more fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and microelements into the diet. In addition, doctors recommend that you adhere to the following preventive measures:

• lead a correct and healthy lifestyle;
• eliminate the stress factor;
• to refuse from bad habits;
• increase motor activity;
• do sport.

All this will help keep the body in good physical shape and prevent diseases associated with joint damage.

As independent actions that help well with numbness of the fingers, not associated with serious ailments, but caused by professional duties, special simple exercises and rubbing will help. Although, as a rule, it reduces the fingers on one hand, massages and gymnastics should be done for both hands. Exercises that prevent hypesthesia can be done both sitting and standing:

• raise your hands up, above your head, vigorously imitate shaking movements, then lower your hands and relax;
• spread your arms to the sides and make rotational movements with your hands, both clockwise and against it;
• with arms spread apart, vigorously clench and unclench your fist, can be combined with rotations of the hand;
• connect your fingers together, and spread your palms apart, each finger should “hello” with the same finger.

Each of the exercises should be repeated 10 to 15 times, and the whole complex should be done three or four times a day.

As for rubbing, they are no less effective than gymnastics. Moreover, it is recommended not only to massage with one palm of the other, but also to rub oil, cream, vitamins into the skin. When rubbing or massaging, it is very important to massage each finger, even those that do not lose sensitivity, and, of course, the palm itself.

It is also good to massage the brushes alternately with hard washcloths or massage mittens. This helps to speed up blood flow and prevent blood stasis. There are no special tricks for this, you just need to listen to your own feelings.

Finger numbness is a rather serious symptom, and if 2 fingers on the right hand go numb and hurt, or one, then professional duties, cold, hereditary anemia, or heavy bags should not automatically be considered the culprits. Do not forget that these symptoms can be a harbinger of a very serious disease dormant inside the body.

Recently, the number of people facing the problem of numbness has been increasing. Why does the finger on the right hand go numb? This question has become very relevant. And it is no coincidence that this circumstance coincided with the era of global computerization. However, not only office workers suffer from this, but it happens more often for them. This is faced by representatives of various professions associated with the constant movement of brushes. These are painters, embroiderers, weavers, musicians, carpenters.

Why does the finger on the right hand go numb: causes and symptoms of diseases

The most common cause of finger numbness is carpal tunnel syndrome. There is a pinching of the median nerve tendons of the wrist. But it is he who is responsible for the sensitivity of the fingers and palm. If the tendons are overloaded, they swell and, as a result, pinch the nerve. And since 90% of people are right-handed, it is the right hand that becomes numb.

Symptoms:

• night goosebumps;
• decrease in the ability of the fingers to touch;
• burning in the fingers;
• seizures may occur;
• swelling in the wrist area;
• decreased mobility of the thumb.

If left untreated, the muscles in the thumb may atrophy. In severe cases, you can lose the strength of the hands.

Pathology of blood vessels, problems with the spine, neuralgia of the hands and neck lead to the same symptom.

The most common reasons that the index finger of the right hand goes numb:

• hypovitaminosis (A and B) or the first stage of vascular atherosclerosis (in people over forty-five);
• neuralgia of the nerve plexus of the shoulder or any disease in the elbow joint;
• cervical osteochondrosis.

To the fact that the ring finger of the right hand goes numb, diseases of various organs that are not directly related to the hands can lead. This may be dysfunction of any internal organs, the consequences of pneumonia or operations, intoxication, emotional overload, and even improper metabolism. The most terrible diseases: diabetes mellitus, angina pectoris, stroke or heart attack. Therefore, if the symptoms continue for some time, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Prevention

Complete rejection of nicotine and alcohol, salty, spicy, spicy fatty foods. You need to make the transition to a healthy diet.

Do not allow sudden changes in hand temperature. Wear gloves made from natural fibers. You need to give your hands a rest every hour for fifteen minutes.

Why does the finger on the right hand go numb during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the uterus increases significantly and compresses the nerve columns. Also, blood circulation can be disturbed due to swelling in the wrists. This is usually the case in the last trimester. It is necessary to constantly monitor the presence and development of edema, especially hidden ones. Therefore, it is worth watching the legs and arms.

Deep dents with pressure are the first sign of edema. This can adversely affect the health of the baby, so you should immediately consult a doctor and exclude spicy, salty, fatty and fried foods. Attentive attitude to yourself at this time is the key to the health of your baby in the future.

We hope that now you understand why the finger on the right hand is numb. Although it is best to consult a doctor, he will be able to diagnose and identify the true cause.

The feeling of numbness in the fingers often occurs due to compression of blood vessels and nerves in the hands. In rare cases, numbness in the fingers can be a sign of some kind of abnormality in the body.

Causes of numbness in the fingers

Finger numbness can be caused by a variety of reasons:

1. Pathologies in the cervical region. Due to the compression of the nerves in the cervical region, the upper limbs flow.
2. Long stay in an uncomfortable position. Uncomfortable posture contributes to mechanical compression of the arterial vessels of the upper extremities. If you sit in an uncomfortable position for a long time and endure numbness of your fingers, you can earn irreparable damage with necrotic changes.
3. Pathologies of the circulatory system. Due to the fact that the heart and all the heart vessels are located on the left side, the numbness of the fingers is also observed on the left side. Therefore, if the finger on the right hand is numb, the variant with the pathology of the circulatory system can be immediately discarded.
4. Metabolic disease.

As a rule, metabolic disorders, and consequently numbness of the fingers, occur as a result of:

• Lack of vitamins. Because of this reason, fingers are most often numb in spring and winter. Only the fingertips become numb, and intense peeling of the skin is also observed.
• Lack of calcium and potassium. Because of this reason, there is frequent numbness of the fingers in pregnant women.

Causes of numbness of the little fingers on the hands

The most common cause of numbness in the little finger on the right hand is prolonged work at the computer. If a person has numbness in the right little finger, then it is worth reducing the load on this hand. In the event that no loads are made on the right hand during the day, but the little finger is still numb, you should consult a doctor.

Regarding the numbness of the little finger on the left hand, there may be more serious reasons:

1. tunnel syndrome.
2. Compression of the nerve in the elbow region.
3. Ischemia.
4. Various diseases associated with blood vessels.

Tunnel syndrome appears in a person due to prolonged stress on the tendon of the hand. Most often, this syndrome manifests itself in people whose profession is associated with the use of fine motor skills, namely musicians, drivers and office workers. It is also worth noting that left-handed people are more prone to this disease.

During compression of the nerve in the ulnar region, numbness appears not only on the little finger, but also on the ring finger. Nerve compression in the elbow region may be due to neuritis or sciatica.

Another cause of numbness of the little finger on the left hand is diseases of the heart and blood vessels. If this is ischemia or a pre-stroke condition, then numbness can be accompanied by quite painful sensations.

What to do if the numbness of the finger on the hand does not go away?

If the numbness of the finger on the hand has been observed for quite a long time, and there are no signs of the extinction of this symptom, do not panic. Initially, you need to perform several special exercises that will return blood flow to the fingers.

1. It is necessary to raise two hands up, shake them, lower them. This exercise must be done ten times.
2. This exercise can be performed both in a sitting position and standing. Hands should be extended to the sides parallel to the floor. Next, you need to rotate your hands, first clockwise, and then in the opposite direction. The exercise is also repeated ten times.
3. Adopt a sitting or standing position. Hands must be kept parallel to the floor, the phalanges of the fingers gather into a fist. Rotational movements are made clockwise, and then in the other direction. The exercise is repeated twelve times.
4. Sit on a chair and keep your back straight. Turning movements of the head are made first to the right and to the left, and then up and down. Rotations should be done smoothly. The exercise is repeated 10 times.
5. You need to fold your hands in front of your chest, the right palm should be in contact with the left palm, and then rub your palms together.
6. It is necessary to repeat the position indicated in the fifth exercise. But it is necessary to touch not with the whole palm, but only with the ends of the fingers. The pads of the fingers are massaged against each other.

If, after performing these exercises, the numbness of the fingers has not gone away, it is recommended to repeat the exercises after a few hours. If after repeated exercise the symptoms of numbness do not go away, you should consult a doctor.

How to prevent finger numbness?

As a rule, a person begins to perform some kind of exercises that relieve numbness only when it has already manifested itself. This is wrong, because there are simple exercises that will prevent numbness in the fingers and do not take much time to perform. It is enough to devote 5 minutes to their implementation, in the morning and in the evening.

1. Only after waking up, a person needs to raise his fists up, and then clench and unclench them. The exercise must be repeated 50 times. After completing this exercise, the arms are extended along the body, and the exercise is repeated again. The number of repetitions does not change.
2. You need to turn to face the wall, stand on your toes and raise your hands up. In this position, you need to freeze and stand for at least a minute. The exercise is repeated seven times. These times can be divided into morning and evening.
3. You need to press your palms together, cross, and then squeeze and unclench your fingers. The exercise must be repeated 30 times.

These exercises are quite easy, the main thing is not to be lazy.

Finger numbness is a rather unpleasant, but quite tolerable symptom that many do not pay attention to. But there are a number of serious diseases that can lead to loss of sensitivity. Although in most cases the causes of finger numbness are commonplace, you need to know all the possible conditions in order to start timely and competent treatment.

Causes of finger numbness

Not associated with disease

• • hypothermia
  • Uncomfortable sleeping position
  • Exposure to chemicals
    • alcoholism
    • heavy metals and solvents
    • medications

Pathological

Numbness not associated with disease

What reactions of the body are absolutely normal? (cm. )

• Everyone is familiar with the feeling of “not one’s own hand”, when one or both limbs are pinched during a sound sleep.
• The same thing will happen if the hand is “lying down” - the fingers will become numb. A few minutes of normal position and intense clenching of the fist are enough to put everything in order.
• For a while, you can lose sensitivity when you are outside in the cold, especially when working with water.

But if such situations are repeated every day, or specific parts are always involved (for example, only numbness of the ring finger of the left hand), then you need to think about pathological causes. The only time when the numbness of only one ring finger of the right hand is normal is when the size of the wedding ring is too small.

Tunnel Syndromes

Carpal tunnel syndrome (carpal tunnel syndrome)

Compression of the median nerve through the wrist leads to carpal tunnel syndrome. It usually occurs in people of certain professions (musicians, programmers, packers), whose work is associated with active bending of the arms at the wrists. Sometimes the syndrome occurs after injuries and surgical interventions, it also occurs with edema of pregnant women, as well as with severe obesity. By the way, numbness during pregnancy does not require special treatment.

• Signs of the disease include numbness, burning, tingling in the thumb, index and middle fingers, sometimes spreading throughout the entire hand.
• The aggravation occurs at night.
• With prolonged compression, muscle weakness and permanent nerve damage occur.

The diagnosis is made mainly on the basis of complaints, sometimes MRI, electromyography and other additional methods are used. In order to treat the syndrome, anti-inflammatory drugs, rest and splints in the areas of the wrists are used. Often it is necessary to surgically release the muscles and nerves from compression. When the first symptoms appear, you should consult a doctor, as a slight numbness of the fingers can eventually turn into disability.

cubital tunnel syndrome

Infringement of the ulnar nerve all the way from the elbow to the wrist can cause the corresponding tunnel syndrome. The most common causes of this pinching include:

• the habit of leaning on the elbows during work and rest
• injury
• deformities of the elbow joint (with arthritis and arthrosis)
• subcutaneous implant for contraception
• extensive hematomas in blood diseases
• unsuccessful puncture of a vein when setting up droppers and taking blood
• wasting with loss of muscle and fat mass
• tumors
• unexplained factors

Signs of elbow syndrome include burning, tingling, and numbness in the little finger and ring finger. As the pinching progresses, there is weakness in the fingers, pain, muscle wasting, and difficulty in manipulating the hand. There is even a special sign: when you try to hide the brush in the pocket of your trousers, the little finger remains on the edge of the pocket.

The diagnosis of cubital tunnel syndrome, like carpal tunnel syndrome, is made according to the patient's complaints. It is necessary to rule out common causes of nerve damage (diabetes mellitus), examine the elbow joint with an X-ray or MRI, recall recent injuries and operations. With a slight numbness, it is usually recommended to keep the arm constantly straightened, even during sleep. For this, soft tissue splints are used. If this does not help, and muscle weakness and atrophy grows, then they resort to surgical treatment.

Numbness of the fingers, spreading to the entire limb or even side of the body, especially in combination with slurred speech, is a reason for emergency hospitalization. Such signs may indicate a developing stroke.

Raynaud's disease

Conditionally divided into two types: primary (without apparent causes and background diseases) and secondary. The latter is usually combined and is a consequence of systemic autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and others), and also occurs against the background of vibrations in production. The primary form is more common in young women. Raynaud's phenomenon symptoms include:

With primary Raynaud's disease, there is no threat to life and health. It is only necessary to protect your hands from cold, vibrations and avoid stressful situations. To exclude the secondary form, a doctor's consultation is necessary. The diagnosis is usually made on the basis of complaints, but with persistent changes, severe pain and the appearance of other symptoms, additional methods are used.

They examine the vascular bed (to exclude a thrombus), nerve conduction (to exclude nervous diseases), take a blood test to diagnose autoimmune processes. Treatment of secondary forms begins with the treatment of the underlying disease and smoking cessation. Of the medicines, calcium channel blockers are used: nifedipine and similar drugs. In severe cases, you have to resort to surgery.

Anemia

Anemia is a very common condition these days. It manifests itself with many symptoms that are often attributed to other diseases. With anemia, the level of hemoglobin in the blood is below the established norm. Sometimes hemoglobin is within normal limits, but iron stores in the body have already dried up. This is called latent (hidden) iron deficiency.

Symptoms of anemia and latent iron deficiency:

• numbness of fingers and toes
• pale skin and mucous membranes
• weakness, prolonged subfebrile condition
• aversion to meat, inedible foods
• , nails
• and dry skin

It is believed that normally the hemoglobin level in men from 20 to 59 years old should not be lower than 137 g/l, in men from 60 years old - 132 g/l, and in women the lower limit is 122 g/l. To determine the latent iron deficiency, determine. With confirmed anemia, iron preparations are prescribed (Ferretab, Sorbifer Durules, see), which allow replenishing the body's depot.

Guillain-Barré syndrome

The syndrome is an acute inflammatory process in the nerves and nerve roots, as a result of which motor and tactile function is impaired. Often it is the numbness of the fingers and a tingling sensation in them that are the earliest symptoms of the disease. The symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome include:

• numbness in the fingers and toes, extending to the wrist and ankle
• aching and throbbing pain in the back, buttocks, thighs
• fast or slow heartbeat, shortness of breath
• difficulty swallowing and speaking
• weakness in the legs and arms, up to immobility

All symptoms usually appear after a slight indigestion or mild SARS. The result is an autoimmune process where the body attacks its own nerves. The disease develops acutely, reaches a maximum in 2-4 weeks. Then there is a gradual decline and attenuation of symptoms.

The main treatment is rehabilitation after stopping the autoimmune inflammation. Recovery can take up to several months. In severe cases (2-4%), death occurs from respiratory arrest and other important processes. But most patients have only a part of the above symptoms, which are not fully manifested. Such people have good prospects for the full restoration of all body functions.

scleroderma

One of the most severe autoimmune diseases, in which the skin, vascular walls, internal organs gradually thicken, losing elasticity and their normal functions. This disease is not inherited, but the risk of getting sick in relatives is still above average. Most often, the disease affects women aged 30-50 years. The reasons for its occurrence are unknown.

Symptoms of scleroderma:

• hardening of the skin (starts with the fingers), numbness and tingling
• disappearance of facial wrinkles
• the appearance of dark and light spots on the skin, the shine of compacted areas
• the appearance of small pinpoint hemorrhages on the skin
• numbness of the fingers and other affected areas, Raynaud's phenomenon
• muscle and joint pain
• shortness of breath, progressive respiratory failure
• digestive disorders
• inability to open the mouth wide

For diagnosis, it is usually enough to look at the patient with a glance. But blood tests (general, biochemical, autoantibody tests) are often used to confirm the presence of the disease. In doubtful cases, a biopsy of the affected area of ​​the skin is performed, which is then examined under a microscope.

The treatment of the disease is symptomatic, that is, it is aimed at removing the main signs of the disease. They use anti-inflammatory drugs, sputum thinners, laxatives, steroids and other medicines. In addition, a balanced diet, giving up bad habits, working in cold conditions, and timely treatment of wounds and ulcers are very important.

In addition to scleroderma, almost any autoimmune disease can cause nerve damage and numbness in the fingers. Therefore, if necessary, the therapist will give a referral to a rheumatologist in order to exclude an immune failure as a cause of numbness.

Some psychological problems (depression, for example) can masquerade as discomfort in the arms and legs. Often they are limited to only fingers. Therefore, if in addition to numb hands there are complaints of sweating, frequent pulse, insomnia, causeless tears and a feeling of longing, then you need to urgently contact a specialist. Depression is a very serious illness that requires adequate medical treatment.

The impact of alcohol

Alcohol, among many other serious disorders, causes neuropathy (ie nerve damage) in people. There is even a special term: alcoholic neuropathy. It is associated with the versatile influence of ethanol. It interferes with the absorption of important substances such as thiamine, proteins, folates. In addition, ethanol derivatives directly affect the nerves, causing their destruction. In the liver, damage also occurs that indirectly affects the neuromuscular transmission. Thus, finger numbness in alcoholics is a fairly common phenomenon.

Heavy metal and chemical poisoning

Various industries use chemical compounds that have a negative effect on the entire body, including the nervous system. Therefore, people working in metallurgy, construction, paint shops often come into contact with such hazardous substances. Numbness of the fingers can be caused by arsenic, lead, mercury, thallium, solvents. In addition to this symptom, there may be problems with digestion, breathing, and even. Therefore, if, after contact with a hazardous substance, the above signs appear, then you need to urgently seek medical help.

Medicines

Some drugs can cause numbness in the limbs, including the fingers. These include isoniazid (an anti-tuberculosis drug), vincristine (an anticancer drug), gold compounds, some AIDS drugs, and metronidazole. Usually in the annotations to the drugs there is a list of side effects that the doctor must take into account.

Diabetes

In type 1 diabetes, the onset of the disease is associated with a sharp deterioration in well-being, and only after many years of illness does nerve damage occur. Type 2 diabetes is more insidious, it can be asymptomatic, and a person may already have neurological symptoms by the time a diagnosis is made. In addition, irregular medication intake and poor glucose control lead to inevitable consequences. The most famous of these is "diabetic foot" with loss of sensation in the legs resulting in the formation of ulcers. But quite often there are disorders of the nervous tissue in the hands, as a result, the fingers or the entire hand become numb.

Signs of diabetic hand neuropathy:

• numbness and tingling of fingers
• worse at night
• more often both hands are affected, but there are also disorders in one limb or in several fingers (for example, numbness of the index fingers)

To diagnose diabetic neuropathy, diabetes mellitus must first be confirmed. For this purpose, the level of glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin in the blood is determined, and a general urine test is examined. Sometimes they diagnose damage to blood vessels and nerves in the fundus, heart and other organs. To control this condition, it is necessary to maintain an adequate level of glucose, using special hypoglycemic drugs or injecting insulin as prescribed by the doctor. If you strictly follow all the recommendations, do not start the disease, then you can avoid both unpleasant symptoms and formidable complications.

Spondylosis

The gradual destruction of the intervertebral discs in the cervical spine, their protrusion, the formation of sharp edges is an inevitable process called spondylosis. As the discs wear out, pain in the neck, shoulder, arm, limitation of movement and sensitivity can form. The numbness usually occurs in the arm or hand, but sometimes it only affects the fingers. The diagnosis is made on the basis of CT and MRI data. Treatment usually includes anti-inflammatory drugs, antispasmodics, massage, and physiotherapy. If a large hernia is formed or the spinal canal narrows too much, then surgical methods are used.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency

Deficiency of thiamine in the body can cause unpleasant health effects. The disease resulting from this beriberi is called beriberi. First of all, there are violations of the nervous system. In severe cases, the heart and the entire vascular system are affected.

Symptoms of B1 deficiency:

• bilateral numbness of the fingers and toes, which tends to spread
• muscle cramps
• atrophy (weakening, shrinkage) of muscles
• memory loss, insomnia
• Wernicke's encephalopathy and Korsakoff's syndrome (brain dysfunction with the appearance of a mental disorder)
• severe weakness in the legs
• rapid pulse
• low blood pressure, fainting
• digestive disorders

Serious cases of beriberi in developed countries are rare, mainly for the following reasons:

• Alcoholism
• Severe infection, sepsis
• Hemodialysis ("artificial kidney")
• Operations on the stomach and intestines

Sometimes dietary habits lead to vitamin deficiency. Some products (polished rice, tea, coffee) contain substances that break down thiamine. If at the same time you eat little thiamine-containing foods (cereals, meat, milk, beans), then there is a risk of getting sick beriberi. Treatment of the disease consists in prescribing a drug with thiamine, correcting the diet and eliminating provoking factors (alcohol abuse, infectious processes, excessive exercise).

It must be remembered that in addition to B1 and other vitamins of this group affect the nervous system. Therefore, a balanced diet is the key to health.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

ALS is a severe disease of the nerve cells responsible for motor function. Sometimes it begins not with disturbed movements, but with a feeling of awkwardness in the hands, similar to numbness. It usually occurs first on the working side. So, the left-hander has numbness of the fingers of the left hand, and then the right. As the disease progresses, a shaky gait, the impossibility of precise actions with the hands, and “drying out” of the muscles join the numbness.

Then there is a violation of speech, slurred voice, difficulty swallowing. In the final stage, the respiratory muscles are also involved in the process, which leads to frequent pneumonia. The end of the disease is respiratory arrest. Currently, there is no cure for it, so the average life expectancy is 5 years. Although with proper care, it can be extended indefinitely. An example is the famous theoretical physicist Steve Hawking, who is confined to a wheelchair and communicates using a computer.

The diagnosis of ALS is rarely made at the first visit. Sometimes several months of observation is needed to rule out other possible causes of numbness. For diagnosis, EMG (electromyography) is often used - a study of muscle activity in response to irritation.

Diphtheria polyneuropathy

Diphtheria is a well-known disease, the nightmare of pediatricians of past centuries. Now this disease is rare due to the widespread vaccination of children. Mostly unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated children and adults get sick.

Symptoms of diphtheria:

• the onset of the disease resembles a common ARVI
• increasing sore throat
• a diphtheria film is formed - a gray coating in the respiratory tract
• enlarged cervical lymph nodes (a symptom called "bull's neck")
• difficulty breathing (due to blockage of the airways)

In addition to the last symptom, which is life-threatening, nerve damage can also occur. As a result, there is a violation of sensitivity (numbness and tingling) in the limbs according to the type of "gloves and socks". The disease is treated with a special anti-diphtheria serum. In developed countries, to meet this disease in its full form is now a rarity, but with numbness of the fingers it cannot be discounted.

Tests for finger numbness

Despite the fact that many diseases that cause numbness of the fingers can be identified by external symptoms and an initial examination, the doctor may prescribe additional tests:

• on an empty stomach
• Glycosylated hemoglobin
• Blood creatinine
• TSH level

After the tests, electromyography is often performed, in which the electrical potentials of certain muscles are recorded, comparing them with the norm.

Before a visit to a specialist, it is necessary to decide which fingers are numb, and whether this process is bilateral, or only the left or right hand is involved. This is of great importance, as it makes it possible to distinguish tunnel syndromes from, for example, serious nervous diseases. In addition, you need to accurately name all additional symptoms. Numbness and pain can indicate trauma and carpal tunnel syndrome, and loss of sensitivity even to strong influences speaks in favor of diabetes.

How to eliminate finger numbness at home?

Numbness with hypothermia or after an uncomfortable posture in a dream goes away on its own. Other forms of loss of sensation may be permanent or intermittent. Numbness in itself is not dangerous, it does not need to be eliminated. But to visit a therapist or a neuropathologist is simply necessary. Treatment for finger numbness depends on the disease that caused it.