Many people believe that numbness in the hands is a sure sign of calcium deficiency, yet this paraesthesia is an abnormal state that is characteristic of many diseases.

These are conditions that restrict blood flow and cause a burning, tingling or prickling sensation and a loss of feeling in the skin. In most cases, numbness results from reduced blood flow to a particular part of the body or from nerve damage.

Numbness in the hands may be caused by infections, inflammation, injuries and other abnormal processes. In most cases these conditions are not life-threatening, but numbness can sometimes be caused by strokes and tumours. It is important to identify the cause of numbness early and to begin treatment promptly.

If you often experience numbness in your limbs, we recommend undergoing diagnostics in Switzerland. The findings then provide the basis for deciding on the appropriate therapy. Treatment in Switzerland may address the cause (for example, correcting a vitamin deficiency) or relieve the symptoms to ease the unpleasant sensations.

Warning signs

Numbness in the hands as the only symptom is rarely a cause for concern. However, if it appears suddenly and is combined with other symptoms such as muscle weakness or paralysis, speech problems, nausea, vomiting, confusion or a severe, sharp headache, call 112 for an emergency assessment of the cause.

Chest pain (more often associated with numbness in the left arm) or a change in the temperature or colour of the arm also requires an emergency consultation.

Possible causes of numbness

  1. Peripheral neuropathy. Many causes of tingling are linked to a condition called peripheral neuropathy. This is a type of nerve damage that causes numbness and stiffness in the hands and feet. Various conditions lead to peripheral neuropathy. One cause of peripheral neuropathy is a trapped nerve. Numbness in the legs or arms can arise from a trapped nerve in the back. This may be due to injury or inflammation. Other symptoms of a trapped nerve include pain and restricted movement.
  2. Alcohol. Alcohol is a toxin and can damage nerve tissue. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to a type of peripheral neuropathy known as alcoholic neuropathy.
  3. Anxiety. People experiencing anxiety may breathe faster, which can cause numbness in the legs. Hyperventilation is a common symptom of anxiety and is characterised by very fast, rapid breathing. This causes an imbalance in carbon dioxide and oxygen levels, which can lead to numbness in the legs. Numbness in the legs and anxiety may be psychologically linked.
  4. Pregnancy. Numbness in the legs is common and often occurs during pregnancy. As the baby grows, the uterus can put pressure on the nerves in the woman’s legs.
  5. Vitamin deficiency. A lack of vitamins E, B1, B6, B12 or niacin can cause numbness in the hands or feet. These vitamins are essential for the nervous system to work. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to peripheral neuropathy.
  6. Multiple sclerosis (MS). A long-term condition affecting the brain and spinal cord. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, numbness in the legs is an early symptom of multiple sclerosis. People with this disease may experience numbness before they are diagnosed.
  7. Medication. Some medications can cause numbness in the hands or feet as a side effect.
  8. Infections. Some infections cause inflammation of the nerves, which can lead to numbness in the hands or feet.
  9. Kidney failure. Numbness in the legs or arms can be a sign of kidney failure. Diabetes and high blood pressure increase the risk of kidney failure.
  10. Autoimmune diseases. An autoimmune disease can cause numbness in the legs or arms.
  11. Diabetes. It causes high blood sugar levels, which can damage the nerves. As a result, people with diabetes may experience constant tingling in their feet. This condition is called diabetic neuropathy.
  12. Peripheral vascular disease. It affects the circulatory system and causes the blood vessels to narrow. This can impair circulation, which can cause numbness in the legs or arms.
  13. Stroke. Numbness in the legs or arms can be a sign of a stroke. The symptoms appear suddenly and may include:
  • numbness or weakness of the face, arms or legs, especially on one side
  • confusion
  • difficulty speaking
  • difficulty understanding
  • blurred vision
  • difficulty walking
  • dizziness
  • loss of balance
  • loss of coordination

All of this shows how important it is to see a doctor in good time. If you experience numbness in your hands, arrange high-quality diagnostics. The doctor will make a diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.