May 14, 2009

Numbness Or Tingling In Hands

Posted in Category : Common Ailments

One may sometimes experience a loss of sensation in one’s hand or fingers. This is a condition commonly known as numbness in hands and it is usually accompanied by a tingling in the hands. Other symptoms may also be exhibited like a burning sensation in the hands and fingers, a feeling of weakness of the hands or sometimes, even pain. Medical supervision is advised as in some cases this numbness of the hands could be an indicator of serious afflictions like a stroke or as is more often, diabetes. It could also be the first symptom of a variety of other diseases, so a proper diagnosis is crucial. In most common cases though, the numbness is usually caused by poor circulation of blood through the hand. This can result from keeping your eye in a difficult position or in the same position for an extended period of time. In addition nerve damage also could lead to numbness and tingling in the hands, arms and legs. A condition known as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, in which irritated tendons or other inflamed tissues causes the median nerve to be compressed, also shows itself in the form of numbness and tingling in hands. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is usually caused due to an overly stressful lifestyle or over activity of the hand and wrist.

Unless the tingling is a symptom of a serious disease, in which case it must be appropriately treated, the numbness in hands can go away if you follow a few simple steps. If the numbness has been caused by keeping your hand in the same position for a long time, it is time to exercise that hand and ease the circulation in your hands. However, if the numbness is a result of over activity of the hand, resting the hand is the first cure. Thus it need not be said that while treating a numbness of the hand, identifying the root cause is all-important. Avoid remaining in the same position for a long time, especially when watching TV or working on a computer. Keep curling and stretching your arms and legs and slowly exercise your fingers intermittently. Popping multivitamins that include zinc, chromium, and folic acid will also help to get rid of the numbness. In some cases, the numbness is originally caused due to excessive intake of alcohol, so avoiding it will be a wise decision. Quit smoking too, as it reduces blood flow to the extremities of the body.