Numbness in Left Hand and Foot: When to Seek Medical Help

Numbness in the left foot and left hand?

Hello, Doctor Gao.
I have been experiencing numbness in my left hand and left foot.
The numbness is more pronounced in my palms and soles, and it decreases as it gets closer to my body.
The episodes occur at random times and do not seem to follow a specific pattern.
When my hands and feet become numb, the sensation can last for quite a long time, approximately over a week.
Then, one day, I wake up and it disappears.
During this period, I also experience very mild weakness in my limbs, but it does not affect my daily activities.
I am concerned that this might be a sign of a stroke.
I researched stroke symptoms and do not have any signs of facial drooping or weakness in my left hand and foot.
Additionally, my blood pressure does not rise during these episodes of numbness.
Could you please advise which medical specialty I should consult? Thank you, Doctor Gao.

Xiao Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/15

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

The symptoms are unilateral and have persisted for over a week.
It is recommended to see a physician, specifically a neurologist, for a more detailed evaluation and to arrange for tests to determine the underlying issue.

Reply Date: 2016/08/15

More Info

Numbness in the left hand and foot can be concerning, especially when it persists for an extended period, as you have described. Your symptoms, including the numbness primarily in the palms and soles, along with mild weakness, warrant a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying neurological conditions. Given your concerns about a possible stroke, it's essential to approach this situation with caution and seek medical advice.

When to Seek Medical Help
You should consider seeking medical help if:
1. Persistent Symptoms: If the numbness lasts longer than a few days or recurs frequently.

2. Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience other symptoms such as weakness, difficulty speaking, vision changes, or coordination problems.

3. Impact on Daily Life: If the numbness begins to interfere with your daily activities or quality of life.

4. Family History: If there is a family history of neurological disorders or vascular diseases.

Recommended Medical Specialties
Given your symptoms, the following medical specialties would be appropriate for evaluation:
1. Neurology: A neurologist specializes in disorders of the nervous system and can conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a neurological examination and possibly imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to assess for any structural issues.

2. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R): Also known as rehabilitation medicine, specialists in this field can help assess functional impairments and develop a rehabilitation plan if necessary.

3. Primary Care Physician: If you are unsure where to start, your primary care physician can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to the appropriate specialist.

Diagnostic Tests
To determine the cause of your numbness, your doctor may recommend several diagnostic tests, including:
- Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): This test measures how well electrical signals travel through your nerves and can help identify nerve damage.

- Electromyography (EMG): This test evaluates the electrical activity of muscles and can help diagnose conditions affecting muscle function.

- MRI or CT Scan: Imaging studies can help visualize the brain and spinal cord to rule out structural abnormalities, such as herniated discs or tumors.

Possible Causes of Numbness
The numbness you are experiencing could be attributed to several potential causes:
- Nerve Compression: Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or cervical radiculopathy can lead to numbness in the extremities.

- Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition, often caused by diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or alcohol use, can lead to numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.

- Cervical or Lumbar Issues: Problems in the cervical spine (neck) or lumbar spine (lower back) can lead to nerve compression, resulting in numbness in the limbs.

- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although you mentioned not having classic stroke symptoms, a TIA can present with temporary neurological symptoms and should be evaluated promptly.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may not currently be severe enough to disrupt your daily life, it is crucial to take them seriously, especially given the potential implications of neurological conditions. I recommend scheduling an appointment with a neurologist or your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms in detail. They can guide you through the necessary evaluations and help determine the appropriate course of action. Early intervention can be key in managing any underlying conditions effectively.

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