Numb hands or feet
Tingling or numbness that needs a proper assessment.
Numb hands or feet: what it is
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet comes from irritation of nerves. Common causes include nerve compression, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetes, low vitamin B12 and thyroid problems.
Some inflammatory conditions, including vasculitis and Sjögren's syndrome, can also affect the nerves, so tingling together with other symptoms deserves a thorough check.
Numb hands or feet: common signs
- Tingling, pins and needles or numbness in the fingers or toes
- Night-time numbness that wakes you
- Burning feet or hands
- Weakness or clumsiness of the hand or foot
- A rash, fever, weight loss or joint pain together with the numbness
Numb hands or feet: how a rheumatologist helps
Working out the pattern: which nerves, which limbs and how quickly it developed.
Blood tests, nerve tests and, when needed, scans to find the cause.
Treating the cause, including inflammatory causes, and explaining what can be done for the symptoms.
- Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, or trouble speaking
- Numbness with loss of control of the bladder or bowel
- Weakness that spreads quickly
In an emergency call 1122 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Related conditions
Plan your visit
See what to bring to your first visit, then choose a clinic consultation in Rawalpindi or a video consultation.
This page is general information for awareness. It is not a diagnosis or treatment advice.