Sudden Hand Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Help

Sudden unexplained hand numbness?

Hello Dr.
Jiang,
I would like to briefly describe my physical condition.
I am 158 cm tall and weigh 58 kg, with an average build.
I have never had any blood pressure issues, but in the past week or two, I have experienced intermittent numbness in the area under my left armpit and the inner side of my left upper arm (sometimes extending to my palm and fingers).
It feels similar to having a constricting band around my armpit, causing a sensation of reduced blood flow to my left arm and forearm.
There have even been two or three instances where I woke up at night on my back, unable to feel my left arm due to what seemed like a lack of blood flow.
I had to squeeze my hand to restore circulation and regain feeling in my fingers.
I have read some articles suggesting this could be a precursor to a stroke or possibly due to a tumor pressing on a nerve, which sounds quite serious.

I would like to ask Dr.
Jiang what might be causing these symptoms.
Is it necessary for me to seek immediate medical attention? If so, which specialty should I consult first? Additionally, I received a Moderna vaccine in my left upper arm three weeks ago, and I am wondering if this could be a side effect of the vaccine or if it is truly related to my current symptoms.

Zhenzhen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/15

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Miss Zhenzhen,
Your symptoms may suggest peripheral nerve involvement.
Your cardiovascular disease risk is relatively low.
It may be worth considering compression of the nerve roots at the seventh cervical or first thoracic vertebrae.
If the peripheral neuropathy is due to nerve compression, the following characteristics may be present:
1.
Pain with a burning or electric shock-like quality.
2.
Symptoms with a specific dermatomal distribution, which can be triggered by touch or pressure.
3.
Accompanied by muscle soreness and weakness.
I recommend that you visit a neurology clinic for nerve conduction studies and further discussion.
Additionally, consider increasing your intake of B vitamins, and remind yourself to stand up and stretch every half hour to avoid exacerbating symptoms due to nerve compression and muscle tightness.

Please practice self-protection, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to new preventive measures before and after your medical visits.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions further!
Wishing you good health, peace, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2021/07/15

More Info

Sudden hand numbness can be concerning, especially when accompanied by other symptoms. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing intermittent numbness and tingling in your left arm, particularly around the armpit and inner upper arm, which sometimes extends to your hand and fingers. This sensation, which you liken to a constricting band, can indeed be indicative of various underlying issues.

One potential cause of your symptoms could be related to nerve compression or irritation. The brachial plexus, a network of nerves that innervates the arm, can be affected by various factors, including poor posture, repetitive movements, or even sleeping positions that compress the nerves. This could explain why you experience numbness after sleeping in certain positions. Additionally, conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome, where nerves or blood vessels are compressed in the space between your collarbone and first rib, could also lead to similar symptoms.

Another possibility is that your symptoms could be related to a cervical spine issue, such as a herniated disc or cervical radiculopathy, where nerve roots are compressed as they exit the spinal column. This can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness radiating down the arm. Given your recent vaccination, it is also worth considering that some individuals may experience localized reactions or inflammation following an injection, which could potentially affect nearby nerves.

While your symptoms may not necessarily indicate a severe condition, it is essential to be vigilant. The concern about stroke is valid, especially if you experience additional symptoms such as sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, or facial drooping. However, these symptoms typically present acutely and would warrant immediate medical attention.

In terms of seeking medical advice, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. A neurologist would be well-equipped to evaluate your symptoms, conduct a thorough neurological examination, and possibly recommend imaging studies such as an MRI or nerve conduction studies to assess for any underlying issues. If you have concerns about your cervical spine or musculoskeletal system, an orthopedic specialist may also be appropriate.

In summary, while your symptoms could stem from various benign causes, it is crucial to monitor them closely. If you notice any worsening or new symptoms, or if the numbness persists, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, especially if there is an underlying condition that requires treatment.

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