Numbness in hand and leg fingers is a common symptom that affects many people worldwide. This condition can be caused by various factors, including physical injuries, nerve damage, or underlying health conditions.
In this article, we will discuss the common diseases associated with numbness in hand and leg fingers and their possible treatments.
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the median nerve that runs from the forearm to the hand. This compression occurs when the carpal tunnel, which is a narrow passageway in the wrist, becomes inflamed or swollen.
This condition is common among people who perform repetitive motions with their hands, such as typing, using a mouse, or playing musical instruments. In addition to numbness, other common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand and fingers.
Treatment for this condition includes wearing wrist splints, taking anti-inflammatory medications, or surgery in severe cases.
2. Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the peripheral nervous system, which is a network of nerves that connects the spinal cord to the rest of the body.
This condition can be caused by various factors, such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, infections, or exposure to toxins. Numbness in hand and leg fingers is a common symptom of peripheral neuropathy, along with tingling, burning, or prickling sensations.
Treatment for this condition includes managing the underlying cause, taking pain medications, or in severe cases, nerve surgery or transplantation.
3. Raynaud’s Syndrome
Raynaud’s syndrome is a condition that affects the blood vessels in the fingers, toes, nose, and ears. This condition occurs when the blood vessels constrict, reducing the blood flow to these areas.
Numbness in the fingers is a common symptom of Raynaud’s syndrome, along with the discoloration of the skin in these areas. This condition can be triggered by cold temperatures or emotional stress. Treatment for this condition includes avoiding triggers, keeping the body warm, or taking medications that dilate the blood vessels.
4. Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord.
This condition occurs when the immune system attacks the myelin sheath that covers the nerve fibers, resulting in nerve damage. Numbness in the hands and legs is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis, along with weakness, coordination problems, and fatigue.
Treatment for this condition includes managing the symptoms with medications that reduce inflammation, manage pain or improve mobility.
5. Stroke
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted or reduced, resulting in brain cell damage. Numbness, weakness, or paralysis in the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body is a common symptom of a stroke.
Other symptoms may include confusion, trouble speaking or understanding, dizziness, or severe headache. Treatment for a stroke should be immediate and may include medication, IV therapy or surgical intervention when appropriate.
6. Pinched Nerve
A pinched nerve occurs when excessive pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, or muscles. This condition can occur in various parts of the body, including the spine, neck, or wrist.
Numbness and tingling in the hands and legs are common symptoms of a pinched nerve, along with pain, weakness, or muscle spasms. Treatment for this condition includes physical therapy, rest, medications, or in severe cases, surgery.
7. Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition that occurs when the body can’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively. This condition can cause various complications, including nerve damage, which is known as diabetic neuropathy.
Numbness and tingling in the hands and legs are common symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, along with muscle weakness, cramping, and balance problems. Treatment for diabetic neuropathy includes managing blood sugar levels, taking medications that reduce nerve pain, or in severe cases, nerve surgery.
8. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland can’t produce enough thyroid hormones, which are essential for many bodily functions.
This condition can cause various symptoms, including numbness and tingling in the hands and legs, along with fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin. Treatment for hypothyroidism includes taking thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
9. Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that can affect various parts of the body, including the joints, skin, and internal organs.
This condition can cause various symptoms, including numbness and tingling in the hands and legs, along with fatigue, joint pain, and a butterfly-shaped rash on the face. Treatment for lupus includes managing the underlying condition with medications, such as antimalarials, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants.
10. Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury occurs when the spinal cord is damaged due to physical trauma, such as a car accident, fall, or sports injury.
Numbness and paralysis in the hands and legs are common symptoms of a spinal cord injury, along with loss of sensation, muscle weakness, or bladder or bowel dysfunction. Treatment for a spinal cord injury includes stabilizing the spine, managing the symptoms with medications, and physical therapy or, in severe cases, surgery.