Numbness in Limbs: Causes and Concerns

Numbness in the hands and feet?

Hello, for the past two days, I've been experiencing numbness in the left side of my body, including my arms and legs, lasting from half an hour to several hours.
Sometimes, my left limbs feel cold, while the right side does not.
I often have insomnia and have been unable to sleep for two to three days.
I have also quit smoking for about two weeks now—could this be a withdrawal symptom? Additionally, I have previously undergone eye surgery and have a prosthetic eye, and I sustained a head injury from a heavy impact approximately 15 years ago.
Could this be related?

Wang, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/12/04

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

Please visit the neurology outpatient department of the hospital as soon as possible to determine the cause and receive symptomatic treatment.
This symptom raises concern for transient ischemic attack (TIA), which is a warning sign of an ischemic stroke.

Reply Date: 2013/12/04

More Info

Numbness in the limbs, particularly when it is unilateral (affecting one side of the body), can be concerning and may have various underlying causes. In your case, the left side of your body is experiencing numbness and cold sensations, which can be indicative of several potential issues.
Firstly, it is important to consider the possibility of neurological causes. Numbness can occur due to nerve compression or damage, which can happen from various conditions such as a herniated disc, cervical or lumbar radiculopathy, or even peripheral neuropathy. Given your history of head trauma and eye surgery, it is plausible that there could be residual effects from those incidents that might be contributing to your current symptoms. For instance, if there was any damage to the cervical spine or the nerves that innervate the left side of your body, this could lead to the symptoms you are experiencing.

Additionally, the fact that you have recently quit smoking could also play a role. Smoking cessation can lead to various physiological changes in the body, including improved circulation. However, it can also lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may include changes in sensation. While it is less common for smoking cessation to directly cause numbness, the stress and anxiety associated with quitting can exacerbate existing conditions or create new ones.

Another important consideration is the possibility of vascular issues. If the left side of your body feels cold, this could indicate a problem with blood flow. Conditions such as peripheral artery disease or even transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) could lead to numbness and coldness in a limb. TIAs, often referred to as "mini-strokes," can cause temporary neurological symptoms due to reduced blood flow to the brain, and they warrant immediate medical evaluation.

Given your symptoms have persisted for two days and are affecting your quality of life, including your sleep, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a neurological examination, imaging studies (like MRI or CT scans), and possibly vascular studies to assess blood flow.
In summary, while there are several potential causes for the numbness and cold sensations in your left limbs, including neurological, vascular, and even psychological factors related to smoking cessation, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and help alleviate your symptoms.

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