Limb Numbness: When to Seek Medical Attention

Numbness in the limbs?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about the issue of limb numbness.
Recently, over the past month or two, I have noticed that my limbs easily become numb, but there is no pain, and it is limited to the palms of my hands and the soles of my feet.
The numbness does not occur in a specific area; usually, if I maintain a position for less than a minute, I will start to feel numbness, but it gradually improves after changing my posture.
Do I need to go to the hospital for an examination? Additionally, two months ago, I went to the hospital for blood tests due to dizziness, and the abnormal values at that time were a blood sugar level of 106, cholesterol of 104, and triglycerides of 31.
Could this be related to the symptoms I am experiencing now? Thank you, Doctor.

Ellis, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/16

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

The most common manifestation of peripheral neuropathy is a sensation resembling wearing gloves or socks, characterized by numbness or tingling that gradually worsens and then spreads proximally.
If you are experiencing such symptoms, it is necessary to undergo a neurological examination by a neurologist, which may include deep tendon reflex testing and possibly nerve conduction studies to confirm the diagnosis.
If your symptoms fluctuate, you may choose to monitor them initially; however, if they become more persistent and the numbness lasts longer, it is advisable to visit a neurology clinic for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/07/16

More Info

When it comes to experiencing numbness in the limbs, particularly in the hands and feet, it is essential to understand the potential underlying causes and when to seek medical attention. Your recent symptoms of numbness that occur after maintaining a position for a short period, which then improves upon changing positions, can be indicative of several conditions, some of which may require medical evaluation.

Numbness in the extremities can be caused by a variety of factors, including nerve compression, poor circulation, or systemic conditions. Given your description, one possibility is that you may be experiencing transient nerve compression, which can occur when certain positions put pressure on nerves. For instance, sitting or lying in a way that compresses the nerves in the arms or legs can lead to temporary numbness. This is often benign and resolves quickly upon changing positions.

However, the fact that you also experienced dizziness and had abnormal blood test results two months ago raises some concerns. Your blood sugar level of 106 mg/dL is slightly elevated, which could indicate prediabetes, and your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while not alarming, should be monitored. Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to peripheral neuropathy over time, which is a condition that affects the nerves in the extremities and can cause numbness, tingling, or pain.

Given these factors, it is advisable to seek medical attention, particularly if the numbness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness, pain, or changes in coordination. A healthcare provider may recommend several evaluations, including:
1. Neurological Examination: A thorough examination can help determine if there is any neurological deficit or if the numbness is related to nerve compression or damage.

2. Blood Tests: Additional blood tests may be warranted to assess your glucose levels, lipid profile, and other metabolic parameters to rule out diabetes or other metabolic disorders.

3. Imaging Studies: If there is a suspicion of structural issues, such as herniated discs or other spinal problems, imaging studies like MRI or CT scans may be recommended.

4. Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies: These tests can help assess the electrical activity of your muscles and the speed of conduction in your nerves, providing insight into any nerve damage or dysfunction.

In summary, while transient numbness can often be benign, the combination of your symptoms and previous abnormal lab results suggests that it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform the necessary evaluations to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment or lifestyle modifications. Early intervention can be crucial in preventing potential complications, especially if there is an underlying condition contributing to your symptoms.

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