Numbness and Weakness in Hands and Feet: When to Seek Help

Q: Numbness and Weakness in Hands and Feet: When to Seek Help

Hello, Ms. <br>Zhao： The symptoms mentioned above are suspected to be caused by peripheral circulatory insufficiency leading to neurological symptoms. <br>It is advised not to sit cross-legged. <br>If the symptoms persist, it is recommended to see a neurologist for further evalua

Numbness and weakness in the limbs?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have noticed that the numbness in my hands and feet has become increasingly severe.
I usually sit cross-legged, and previously, if I sat for less than half an hour, my feet would definitely go numb.
However, in the past month or two, I have found that not only my feet but also my hands have started to feel numb.
The entire palm of my hand feels numb and has a tingling sensation.
Sometimes, even when I am just sitting still (not necessarily cross-legged) or doing nothing, my hands start to feel numb.
The numbness in my feet seems to have worsened as well; it used to be mostly in the soles, but now even my knees can feel numb.
Occasionally, when I suddenly stand up and my feet touch the floor, my knees are completely weak and I end up collapsing onto the floor, only to realize that my knees have gone numb.
Whether I am sitting or lying down (I usually sleep on my right side), especially when lying down, the sensation is more pronounced.
Sometimes, even after sleeping for less than an hour, my palms will feel numb, or in the morning when I wake up, my knees feel weak.
Basically, two out of three days, I wake up with my knees feeling numb and weak, and occasionally, I also experience numbness in my palms.
My blood pressure seems to fluctuate quite a bit; my systolic pressure is around 110-130, diastolic pressure is about 75-90, and my heart rate is maintained in the 80s.
I am unsure if this blood pressure could have any impact.
Should I see a doctor, or is this just a normal physiological phenomenon? Thank you, Doctor.

Ms. Zhao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/12

Dr. Cai Zongzhang reply Neurology

Hello, Ms.
Zhao: The symptoms mentioned above are suspected to be caused by peripheral circulatory insufficiency leading to neurological symptoms.
It is advised not to sit cross-legged.
If the symptoms persist, it is recommended to see a neurologist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2022/08/12

More Info

Numbness and weakness in the hands and feet can be concerning symptoms that may indicate an underlying medical condition. Given your description of increasing numbness and weakness, particularly in your hands and knees, it is essential to take these symptoms seriously and seek medical evaluation.

Understanding Your Symptoms
The symptoms you are experiencing—numbness, tingling, and weakness—can be attributed to several potential causes. Some common conditions that can lead to these sensations include:
1. Nerve Compression: Prolonged sitting, especially in positions like cross-legged, can compress nerves in the legs and lower back, leading to numbness and weakness. Conditions such as sciatica or carpal tunnel syndrome can also cause similar symptoms.

2. Circulatory Issues: If blood flow to your extremities is compromised, it can lead to numbness and weakness. Your blood pressure readings, while generally within a normal range, should be monitored, especially if you notice fluctuations.
3. Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition, often associated with diabetes, can cause numbness and weakness in the hands and feet. Given your history of diabetes, it is crucial to consider this possibility.

4. Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins such as B12, B1, or folate can lead to nerve damage and result in numbness and weakness.

5. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): This autoimmune condition can cause a variety of neurological symptoms, including numbness and weakness in different parts of the body.

6. Cervical or Lumbar Spine Issues: Conditions affecting the spine, such as herniated discs or degenerative disc disease, can lead to nerve compression, resulting in numbness and weakness in the extremities.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given the progression of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Here are some specific indicators that warrant immediate medical attention:
- Persistent Symptoms: If numbness and weakness persist or worsen over time, it is essential to seek evaluation.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as severe pain, loss of bladder or bowel control, or difficulty walking, you should seek immediate medical attention.

- Impact on Daily Life: If these symptoms interfere with your daily activities, work, or sleep, it is crucial to discuss them with a healthcare provider.

What to Expect During Your Visit
When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely perform a thorough physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as:
- Blood Tests: To check for vitamin deficiencies, blood sugar levels, and other metabolic conditions.

- Nerve Conduction Studies: To assess the function of your nerves and identify any abnormalities.

- Imaging Studies: Such as MRI or CT scans, to evaluate for structural issues in the spine or other areas.

Conclusion
In summary, while some degree of numbness and weakness can be attributed to normal physiological responses, the severity and progression of your symptoms suggest that a medical evaluation is warranted. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and help manage any underlying conditions effectively. Please consider scheduling an appointment with a neurologist or your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms in detail and receive appropriate care.

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