Right-Sided Numbness: Stroke Warning Signs Explained

Numbness starting from the right leg?

Hello: Last night I noticed numbness on the outer side of my right foot, and this afternoon the outer side of my right leg and the outer side of my hand and arm also started to feel numb.
Just now, I also felt slight numbness on the right side of my cheek and neck.
Could this be a sign of a stroke? Should I go to the emergency room?

Miss Huang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/16

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Ms.
Huang,
You mentioned that "the right side of my face and neck feel slightly numb; could this be a sign of a stroke?" The presence of unilateral neurological symptoms may warrant consideration of lesions along the sensory pathways from the brain to the spinal cord.
I am unsure if you have metabolic syndrome (issues such as increased waist circumference, elevated fasting blood sugar, or abnormal lipid levels); if so, you would be in a high-risk group for cerebrovascular accidents.
Additionally, smoking can contribute to cerebrovascular disease.
I recommend that you undergo an evaluation for risk factors associated with brain and vascular diseases.
If you are concerned about radiation exposure, you might consider opting for an out-of-pocket brain MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to assess neurological repair.
It is also advisable to supplement with B vitamins and manage risk factors.
I suggest consulting a neurologist to discuss further examinations and treatment options.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to reach out for further discussion!
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2022/11/16

More Info

Experiencing numbness on one side of the body, especially when it spreads to different areas such as the foot, leg, arm, and even the face, can indeed be concerning and may indicate a serious medical condition, including the possibility of a stroke. The symptoms you describe—numbness in the right foot, leg, arm, and face—are classic warning signs of a stroke, particularly if they occur suddenly and without an apparent cause.

Strokes can be classified into two main types: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes, which account for about 87% of all strokes, occur when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed. Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading to bleeding in or around the brain. Both types can lead to significant neurological deficits and require immediate medical attention.

The acronym FAST is often used to help identify the signs of a stroke:
- Face drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop or feel numb?
- Arm weakness: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- Speech difficulty: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- Time to call emergency services: If any of these signs are present, it’s crucial to call for emergency help immediately.

In your case, the numbness you are experiencing on the right side of your body could indicate that the right side of your brain is affected, as the brain controls the opposite side of the body. Other symptoms that may accompany numbness include confusion, difficulty speaking, loss of balance, or severe headache, which can further indicate a stroke.

Given the sudden onset of your symptoms and their progression, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. You should go to the emergency department as soon as possible. Time is critical in the management of stroke, as early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term disability.

In addition to stroke, other potential causes of unilateral numbness can include transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), which are often referred to as "mini-strokes." TIAs present similar symptoms but typically resolve within a few minutes to hours. However, they are serious warning signs that a full stroke may occur in the future.

Other conditions that could cause similar symptoms include multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy, or even a herniated disc affecting nerve roots. However, the acute nature of your symptoms strongly suggests that a stroke is a primary concern.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing warrant immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional. Do not wait to see if the symptoms resolve on their own; instead, seek emergency care to ensure that you receive the appropriate diagnostic tests and treatment. Your health and safety are paramount, and timely intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of a potential stroke.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Numbness in Limbs: Is It a Stroke Warning Sign?

Hello doctor, about half a month ago I started feeling numbness near the left side of my wrist, which then extended down to my elbow and palm. After that, I experienced slight numbness in my right hand, and now both of my feet are numb as well. The numbness is mild and does not i...

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology
Hello: Numbness in the extremities is usually more related to peripheral nerves and is not a common symptom of a stroke.

Understanding Sudden Numbness and Pain: Is It a Stroke Warning?

I am a person who often stays up late. Last night at 2 AM, I suddenly experienced swelling and pain on the right side of my face, near the cheek close to the ear. Before going to bed, I noticed some slight tremors in my left hand. Then, in the middle of the night, my entire left ...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, ma'am: Have you measured your blood pressure? "Stroke warning signs?" These are usually accompanied by elevated blood pressure. "Facial dysfunction?" Facial nerve paralysis only affects the area of the facial nerve and does not cause symptoms in th...

Understanding Persistent Right-Sided Numbness and Tightness Symptoms

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my father’s symptoms. He has been experiencing numbness and tightness on the right side of his body from head to toe for over three years. The tightness feels like being bound very tightly. Despite this, he can move normally. Some doctors ...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Hello: To determine if there are symptoms of a stroke or Parkinson's disease, it is necessary to consult a neurologist. Additionally, certain medications may also cause such symptoms, so it is advisable to see a neurologist for an examination first.

Is My Mother's Numbness and Weakness a Sign of Stroke?

Hello, Dr. Gao. My mother has been a long-term patient at your hospital. Recently, she has been experiencing numbness and weakness on the right side of her body from head to toe, and she is unable to walk normally. She was admitted to the hospital urgently yesterday morning. Coul...

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Unilateral numbness and weakness are highly indicative of a stroke. The physician will arrange for relevant examinations to determine the cause and treatment.