Facial and Finger Numbness: Causes and Concerns

Why do fingers and the face occasionally feel numb?

Hello, doctor.
My mother is 75 years old and has been experiencing frequent numbness in her face and fingers over the past couple of years.
Sometimes, the numbness in her fingers lasts for more than an hour (during this time, she keeps moving her fingers).
Occasionally, she also suddenly breaks out in a cold sweat.
I am very concerned that she might have a stroke.
Earlier this year, I took her to see a cardiologist, but the test results showed no issues with her heart.
I wonder if the traditional Chinese medicine she took before the examination (Honghua Tongxuelu) could have affected the results.
Recently, her old symptoms have reappeared (numbness in her fingers, head, and face).

Yijing, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/22

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello Yijing, it sounds like a peripheral nerve issue.
It is advisable to visit the neurology outpatient clinic for further examination.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/11/22

More Info

Understanding facial and finger numbness, especially in an elderly individual, is crucial for identifying potential underlying health issues. Your mother's symptoms of facial and finger numbness, along with episodes of cold sweats, can be concerning and warrant thorough evaluation.
Numbness in the face and fingers can arise from various causes, including neurological, vascular, and metabolic conditions. Given your mother's age, it is essential to consider the possibility of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or strokes, which can present with sudden numbness or weakness in one side of the body, including the face and extremities. However, since you mentioned that a cardiologist evaluated her and found no heart issues, it is also important to explore other potential causes.

1. Neurological Causes: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy, or even carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to numbness in the fingers. Multiple sclerosis, for instance, can cause transient neurological symptoms, including numbness and tingling, due to demyelination of nerve fibers. Peripheral neuropathy, often associated with diabetes or vitamin deficiencies, can also result in numbness and tingling sensations.

2. Vascular Issues: Vascular conditions, including Raynaud's phenomenon, can cause temporary numbness and color changes in the fingers due to reduced blood flow. TIAs, which are often called "mini-strokes," can cause temporary numbness or weakness and should be ruled out, especially if the symptoms are recurrent.

3. Metabolic and Systemic Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, or vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to peripheral neuropathy, resulting in numbness and tingling in the extremities. It's essential to check for these conditions through blood tests.

4. Anxiety and Stress: Given that your mother experiences episodes of cold sweats, it is also worth considering anxiety or panic attacks as a contributing factor. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which may cause temporary numbness and tingling sensations, particularly in the face and extremities.

5. Medication Effects: You mentioned that your mother took traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) before her heart examination. Some herbal medications can affect blood pressure or interact with other medications, potentially leading to symptoms like numbness or cold sweats. It is essential to inform her healthcare provider about all medications and supplements she is taking.

Given the complexity of these symptoms, I recommend the following steps:
- Follow-Up with a Neurologist: A neurologist can perform a detailed neurological examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to rule out any structural issues in the brain or spinal cord.

- Blood Tests: Comprehensive blood tests can help identify any metabolic issues, vitamin deficiencies, or signs of diabetes.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keeping a diary of when the symptoms occur, their duration, and any associated factors (like stress or physical activity) can provide valuable information to healthcare providers.

- Lifestyle Modifications: Encourage your mother to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques, which can help improve overall health and potentially alleviate some symptoms.

In conclusion, while the symptoms your mother is experiencing can be concerning, a thorough evaluation by healthcare professionals can help identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment. It is essential to remain vigilant and proactive in seeking medical advice, especially given her age and the nature of her symptoms.

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