Morning Numbness: Causes and Solutions for Facial and Hand Tingling

Q: Morning Numbness: Causes and Solutions for Facial and Hand Tingling

Hello： Your symptoms may suggest hyperventilation. <br>This condition leads to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, resulting in an increased pH, medically referred to as "respiratory alkalosis." This can trigger systemic reactions and symptoms, with common manifesta

Numbness in the face and hands?

I usually don't eat anything in the morning, so I get hungry until noon.
However, today during class, after sitting for an hour or two, I started to feel my mouth getting numb and a bit dizzy.
Eventually, my mouth, nose, and eyes all felt numb, and my hands began to feel numb as well.
I tried to wait until class was over, but then my right hand started to feel stiff, so I quickly left.
After walking a bit, I felt fine and went to buy something to eat.
Why did this happen?

Ms. Wu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/26

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: Your symptoms may suggest hyperventilation.
This condition leads to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, resulting in an increased pH, medically referred to as "respiratory alkalosis." This can trigger systemic reactions and symptoms, with common manifestations including vasoconstriction and decreased blood calcium levels.
The reduced blood flow to the brain due to vasoconstriction can cause dizziness and numbness (especially around the lips and upper limbs), which may lead to muscle spasms and cramps in the hands and feet.
Additionally, anemia and autonomic nervous system dysfunction may also contribute to your symptoms.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/02/26

More Info

Morning numbness, particularly in the face and hands, can be concerning and may arise from various underlying causes. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced tingling and numbness in your mouth, nose, eyes, and hands after sitting for an extended period without eating. This scenario can be attributed to several factors, including positional issues, blood flow, and nutritional deficiencies.

Possible Causes
1. Positional Nerve Compression: Sitting for long periods, especially in a position that compresses nerves, can lead to numbness or tingling. This is often referred to as "paresthesia." If you were sitting in a way that restricted blood flow or put pressure on certain nerves, it could explain the symptoms you experienced. For instance, leaning on your arm or having your legs crossed for too long can compress nerves and lead to temporary numbness.

2. Hypoglycemia: Since you mentioned that you typically do not eat breakfast and felt hungry until noon, it is possible that you experienced low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). When blood sugar levels drop, it can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, and tingling sensations. The brain and nervous system rely heavily on glucose for energy, and a lack of it can cause neurological symptoms.

3. Anxiety or Panic Attacks: If you were feeling anxious or stressed during your class, this could also contribute to sensations of numbness. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which alters carbon dioxide levels in the blood and can cause tingling in the extremities and face.

4. Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins, particularly B vitamins (like B12), can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness and tingling. If your diet lacks these essential nutrients, it could contribute to your symptoms.

5. Circulatory Issues: Conditions that affect blood circulation, such as Raynaud's phenomenon, can cause numbness and tingling in response to cold or stress. However, this is less likely if you were in a warm environment.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Change Positions Regularly: To prevent nerve compression, try to change your sitting position frequently. Stand up, stretch, and walk around every 30 minutes if possible. This will help improve circulation and reduce the risk of numbness.

2. Eat Regularly: It is crucial to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Consider having a balanced breakfast that includes carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day can help prevent hypoglycemia.

3. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can also contribute to feelings of dizziness and numbness. Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day.

4. Manage Stress: If anxiety is a factor, consider practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

5. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If these symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies or other underlying conditions.

6. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a journal of when these symptoms occur, their duration, and any associated activities or dietary habits. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.

In summary, morning numbness in the face and hands can be attributed to various factors, including positional nerve compression, low blood sugar, anxiety, and nutritional deficiencies. By making some lifestyle adjustments and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can better manage and understand these symptoms.

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