Hand Numbness and Memory Lapses in Seniors

Q: Hand Numbness and Memory Lapses in Seniors

Hello： You mentioned that "you found it difficult to arrange the Mahjong tiles... <br>and your father is concerned whether it is dementia." This symptom is indeed indicative of cognitive dysfunction. <br>Clinically, we would inquire about the patient's medical history and the pro

Numbness in the hands and brief episodes of mental blankness?

Hello, my father is 68 years old and has been experiencing insomnia and numbness in his hands for about six months.
Recently, while playing Mahjong with friends at night, he found it difficult to arrange the tiles.
He is worried that this might be a sign of dementia, as he is unsure whether it is caused by insomnia or other factors such as high blood pressure.
Which specialty should he consult for this condition?

yi, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/07

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: You mentioned that "you found it difficult to arrange the Mahjong tiles...
and your father is concerned whether it is dementia." This symptom is indeed indicative of cognitive dysfunction.
Clinically, we would inquire about the patient's medical history and the progression of symptoms: when the symptoms began, what specific symptoms are present, the status of daily living and work, any medications being taken, alcohol use, or exposure to toxic substances, and conduct a thorough physical and neurological examination.

We would also perform neurological and laboratory tests: arranging for a CT scan or MRI of the brain to check for any brain lesions, as well as blood tests to assess general biochemical values, vitamin B12 and folate levels, and thyroid function.
Certain causes of "cognitive dysfunction" are treatable and may be reversible, such as: 1.
Nutritional deficiencies: lack of vitamin B12, folate, etc.
2.
Intracranial lesions: such as normal pressure hydrocephalus, brain tumors, or traumatic brain injury.
3.
Metabolic disorders: such as hypothyroidism or electrolyte imbalances.
4.
Central nervous system infections: such as syphilis or HIV.

It is recommended to seek further evaluation and follow-up with a neurologist.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2022/11/07

More Info

Hello! It sounds like your father is experiencing some concerning symptoms, including hand numbness and memory lapses, which can understandably lead to worries about conditions like dementia. Given his age (68 years) and the symptoms you've described, it's important to approach this situation with a comprehensive understanding of potential underlying causes.

Firstly, let's address the hand numbness. Numbness in the hands can be caused by a variety of factors, including nerve compression (such as carpal tunnel syndrome), peripheral neuropathy (often related to diabetes or vitamin deficiencies), or even circulatory issues. Additionally, conditions like high blood pressure can lead to vascular problems that might affect blood flow to the extremities, resulting in numbness. Given that your father has been experiencing this for about six months, it would be prudent for him to see a neurologist. A neurologist specializes in disorders of the nervous system and can conduct appropriate tests to determine the cause of the numbness.

Now, regarding the memory lapses, it's essential to consider several factors. Memory issues can arise from various causes, including sleep disturbances, stress, anxiety, depression, and even medication side effects. Since you mentioned that your father has insomnia, this could significantly impact his cognitive function. Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation, and chronic sleep deprivation can lead to difficulties in concentration, memory lapses, and even mood changes.

In older adults, memory issues can also be indicative of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early signs of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. However, it's important to note that not all memory lapses are due to dementia. Stress, anxiety, and sleep deprivation can also lead to cognitive difficulties that may mimic early signs of dementia.

Given these considerations, I recommend that your father consult with both a neurologist and a sleep specialist. The neurologist can evaluate the hand numbness and memory issues, while the sleep specialist can address the insomnia. A thorough evaluation may include a physical examination, blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies or thyroid issues, imaging studies (like an MRI) to assess brain health, and cognitive assessments to evaluate memory function.

In summary, your father's symptoms warrant a multi-faceted approach. It's essential to rule out any neurological conditions that could be causing the numbness and to address the sleep issues that may be contributing to his memory lapses. Early intervention can be crucial in managing these symptoms effectively, so I encourage you to seek medical advice promptly. Remember, addressing lifestyle factors such as stress management, sleep hygiene, and overall health can also play a significant role in improving cognitive function and well-being.

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