An occasional feeling of numbness and tingling is a common occurrence in the body and doesn't necessarily indicate an underlying condition. Most numbness or tingling is caused by remaining seated or standing for long periods of time, nerve injury or pressure on the spinal nerves, according to MedlinePlus. However, people who commonly feel a tingling or numbness in the hands may be exhibiting symptoms of a more serious condition.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway located on the palm side of the wrist. The carpal tunnel protects the main nerve connecting the hand and the nine tendons that bend the fingers. Over time, pressure placed on the nerve produces numbness, pain, tingling and hand weakness. Carpal tunnel syndrome often results from repetitive, forceful and awkward motions of the hand and wrist, according to Mayo Clinic. Many patients find relief from mild carpal tunnel syndrome by splinting the wrist so it remains still. Physicians may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids to help reduce inflammation. For severe cases, patients may choose to undergo surgery. Surgery often can take several weeks to recover from and patients may notice some residual numbness, pain and stiffness, notes Mayo Clinic.
Raynaud's Phenomenon
Raynaud's phenomenon is a disorder in which people are sensitive to cold temperatures and strong emotions, which cause blood vessels to spasm and block blood flow to the fingers, toes, ears and nose. Raynaud's phenomenon often occurs due to conditions such as arterial disease, medications, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune disorders, smoking and frostbite. MedlinePlus explains that symptoms often include pain, numbness and tingling of the fingers, toes, ears and nose as well as skin that turns white and then blue when exposed to cold or strong emotions. Treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon often includes stopping smoking, avoiding caffeine, avoiding exposure to cold and wearing comfortable clothing that doesn't restrict blood flow, notes MedlinePlus.
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland at the base of the throat responsible for releasing metabolism-controlling hormones. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is inflammation of the thyroid gland, which damages the glands of the cells, according to MedlinePlus. A number of conditions, including medications, autoimmune disorders, radiation, viruses and congenital defects, can cause hypothyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism often include constipation, depression, sensitivity to cold, numbness, and tingling of the fingers and hands caused by swelling of the arms, weakness and weight gain. Treatment of hypothyroidism includes treatment with hormone replacement medications such as levothyroxine, explains MedlinePlus.
