Sleep-Related Numbness and Dizziness: Causes and Concerns

Numbness in the hands, feet, and head, as well as dizziness during sleep?

Hello Dr.
Hsiao,
Over the past year, I have experienced intermittent numbness in my hands, feet, and head while sleeping.
This does not occur continuously but happens during the sleep process.
It seems to start after sleeping for about 6 hours.
I wonder if this is related to lying down and experiencing pressure, as I feel a numbness sensation after a certain period of sleep.
However, the numbness disappears as soon as I move my limbs or change positions.
Could this be due to prolonged pressure during sleep, or could it indicate another condition? How serious is it?
Additionally, I have been experiencing occasional dizziness.
Sometimes it occurs when I change positions, and other times it happens suddenly while remaining still in one position, but it resolves quickly.
What could be causing this, and is it serious?
Thank you for taking the time to respond.
Wishing you all the best.

Xiwang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/14

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Miss,
1.
There are many causes for numbness in the hands, feet, and head; more common and serious issues include atherosclerosis, atrial fibrillation, gout, hypertension, diabetes, cervical and lumbar spine diseases, vitamin deficiencies, and autonomic nervous system disorders, among others.
Additionally, there are many common but less serious issues, such as compression of the limbs or poor posture.
2.
There are also many causes of dizziness; more common problems include inner ear imbalance caused by otolaryngological issues, vision problems, stroke, cardiovascular issues, anemia, blood sugar problems, fatigue, medication side effects, and autonomic nervous system disorders.
3.
Although you have described your symptoms very clearly, there are still many points of clarification needed for differential diagnosis.
For example: family medical history, personal medical history, occupational history, blood pressure, lipid levels, blood sugar, sleep patterns, smoking, alcohol consumption, coffee or tea intake, medication use, and mental state.
Additionally, a physical examination may be necessary, and further tests or evaluations may be required if needed.
4.
Please consult with your family physician for further examination and discussion, or seek care at a neurology outpatient clinic at a regional hospital or higher.

Reply Date: 2020/06/14

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the sensations of numbness and dizziness you have been experiencing during sleep. It’s important to understand that these symptoms can arise from various causes, and I will do my best to provide a comprehensive overview based on medical knowledge.

Firstly, the intermittent numbness in your hands, feet, and head during sleep is likely related to positional pressure on nerves or blood vessels. When you lie in one position for an extended period, certain areas of your body can become compressed, leading to a temporary reduction in blood flow or nerve function. This phenomenon is often referred to as "paresthesia," which is the medical term for sensations of tingling, numbness, or a "pins and needles" feeling. The fact that changing positions alleviates the numbness supports this explanation.

In your case, since you mentioned that this occurs after sleeping for more than six hours, it could be that your sleeping posture is contributing to the compression of nerves or blood vessels. Common sleeping positions, such as lying on your side with your arm under your head, can lead to such symptoms. It’s advisable to experiment with different sleeping positions or use supportive pillows to maintain a more neutral alignment of your body while you sleep.

Regarding the occasional dizziness you experience, this could be related to several factors. Dizziness can occur due to changes in posture, especially when moving from a lying down position to sitting or standing. This is often referred to as orthostatic hypotension, where blood pressure drops upon standing, leading to lightheadedness or dizziness. If you notice that the dizziness occurs more frequently when you are still for long periods, it may be worth considering your hydration levels, blood sugar levels, and overall cardiovascular health.

Additionally, if the dizziness is accompanied by other symptoms such as headaches, visual disturbances, or persistent balance issues, it may warrant further investigation. Dizziness can also be a symptom of inner ear issues, anxiety, or even neurological conditions, so it’s essential to monitor the frequency and context of these episodes.

In summary, while the numbness you are experiencing during sleep is likely related to positional compression, the dizziness could be multifactorial. It’s crucial to maintain good sleep hygiene, including proper sleep posture, and to stay hydrated. If these symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience additional concerning symptoms, I recommend consulting a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may suggest tests such as blood pressure monitoring, blood tests, or imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not indicate a severe issue, they are worth discussing with a healthcare provider, especially if they impact your quality of life or sleep. Thank you for reaching out, and I wish you the best in managing your health!

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