Numb Fingers and Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Numb Fingers and Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, Miss Minzhu：<br>You mentioned experiencing "numbness in the fingers and dizziness." I would like to know the specific area of your finger numbness. <br>If the numbness occurs around the lips and fingers, it may be indicative of symptoms caused by hyperventilation syndrome.

Numbness in the fingers accompanied by dizziness?

In the past, I occasionally experienced numbness in my fingers and dizziness.
Recently, due to the need to work while preparing for exams, my sleep time has been relatively insufficient, leading to an increased frequency of these symptoms.
I have a history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis (currently with normal thyroid function) and my menstrual period is approaching (I believe my premenstrual syndrome is more severe than average).
I would like to know if this situation requires further examination or if there are specific aspects I should pay special attention to.
Thank you!

Minzhu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/05

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, Miss Minzhu:
You mentioned experiencing "numbness in the fingers and dizziness." I would like to know the specific area of your finger numbness.
If the numbness occurs around the lips and fingers, it may be indicative of symptoms caused by hyperventilation syndrome.
Hyperventilation can lead to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, resulting in an increase in pH, a condition known medically as "respiratory alkalosis." This can trigger systemic reactions and symptoms, with common manifestations including vasoconstriction and decreased blood calcium levels.
Reduced blood flow to the brain due to vasoconstriction can cause dizziness, numbness (especially around the lips and upper limbs), and weakness.
In more severe cases, symptoms may escalate to agitation, hallucinations, and fainting.
Decreased blood calcium can lead to muscle twitching and spasms in the hands and feet.
The diagnosis of "hyperventilation syndrome" requires the exclusion of physiological diseases; therefore, basic examinations such as pulmonary function tests, electrocardiograms, chest X-rays, and blood tests are necessary.
A definitive diagnosis can be made through arterial blood gas analysis to confirm the patient's low carbon dioxide levels.
I recommend that you visit a neurology outpatient clinic for further evaluation and follow-up.
Please ensure to practice self-protection, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to new preventive measures before and after your medical visit.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions further! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/10/05

More Info

Experiencing numb fingers and dizziness can be concerning, especially when these symptoms become more frequent. Given your history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune disorder that can affect thyroid function, and the fact that you are currently under stress due to work and exam preparations, it is important to consider several factors that could be contributing to your symptoms.

Firstly, the numbness in your fingers could be attributed to a variety of causes. Commonly, it may result from nerve compression, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly if you are spending long hours typing or using a computer. Poor circulation, anxiety, or even vitamin deficiencies (like B12) can also lead to numbness. Additionally, hormonal changes related to your menstrual cycle could exacerbate these symptoms, especially if you are experiencing premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Dizziness, on the other hand, can stem from multiple sources as well. It could be related to dehydration, especially if you are under stress and not drinking enough fluids. Stress and anxiety can also lead to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness. Furthermore, if you are experiencing fatigue due to lack of sleep, this can contribute to both dizziness and numbness.

Given your medical history and the recent increase in symptom frequency, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests to check your thyroid levels, vitamin levels, and other potential causes of your symptoms. They may also assess your neurological function to rule out any serious conditions.

In the meantime, here are some recommendations to help manage your symptoms:
1. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Dehydration can lead to dizziness and exacerbate feelings of fatigue.

2. Sleep Hygiene: Prioritize sleep by establishing a regular sleep schedule. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help your body recover from stress.

3. Stress Management: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga. These practices can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

4. Ergonomics: If you are working at a computer, ensure that your workstation is ergonomically set up to minimize strain on your hands and wrists. Take regular breaks to stretch and move around.

5. Diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins can support nerve health.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

7. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: These substances can exacerbate anxiety and disrupt sleep patterns, potentially worsening your symptoms.

In conclusion, while occasional numbness and dizziness can be benign, the increase in frequency and your underlying health conditions warrant further investigation. Seeking medical advice will help ensure that any underlying issues are addressed and that you receive appropriate care. Remember to take care of your physical and mental health during this stressful time, as both are crucial for your overall well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Dizziness and Cognitive Issues: When to See a Neurologist

Doctor! I sometimes experience dizziness and a slight headache at the back of my head. I also feel a sensation of something stuck in my throat. Today, while writing, I found it very difficult to write smoothly, and my fingers felt quite uncoordinated and somewhat numb. My work is...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello: Regarding the discomfort in your neck and the numbness in your fingers, it is important to first consider cervical nerve root compression, which can present with pain, soreness, muscle stiffness, or a feeling of heaviness. Symptoms may worsen with changes in weather. I rec...

Which Specialist Should I See for Numbness and Dizziness?

Hello Dr. Huang: Recently, I have been experiencing numbness and weakness in both of my palms. I also often feel dizzy, but I had a general health check-up last month and everything was normal. May I ask: 1. Do I need to see a doctor? 2. If so, which specialty should I consult? P...

Dr. Huang Mingde reply Family Medicine
It is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible, starting with a visit to a family medicine physician. Driving while experiencing dizziness can also be quite dangerous.

Understanding Numbness and Weakness: When to See a Neurologist

Hello doctor, my situation is as follows: at the beginning of July, while stretching during breaks at work, I experienced dizziness and numbness in the third and fourth toes of my right foot for more than ten minutes. Then, two weeks later at work, I suddenly felt numbness in my ...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello Mr. Lin: You mentioned that "suddenly both hands' fingers, or only the fingers of the right hand, experience a tingling sensation that extends to about ten centimeters into the palm, lasting approximately 10 to 30 minutes." This may indicate a potential issue...

Understanding Daily Dizziness: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Hello, doctor! About ten years ago, one night as I was preparing to sleep, I suddenly lay down and my head started spinning, with numbness in my hands and feet. My family quickly took me to the emergency room, where the doctor administered an IV and gave me a plastic bag to breat...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello Mr. Lin: If you have seen a neurologist and the initial evaluation and tests are normal, there is no need for an MRI or CT scan. Your symptoms appear to be related to anxiety and hyperventilation. It is recommended that you practice diaphragmatic breathing, where your abdom...