Hands going numb can be caused by a variety of reasons including pressure on nerves, medical conditions, infections, medications, and cold temperatures. Common specific causes include:
- Nerve compression conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome (pressure on the median nerve in the wrist) and cubital tunnel syndrome (ulnar nerve compression at the elbow).
- Poor blood flow due to conditions like Raynaud's disease or heart disease.
- Medical issues like diabetes, vitamin B12 deficiency, multiple sclerosis, or thyroid disorders.
- Temporary pressure on nerves from sitting or sleeping in one position too long, causing short-term numbness.
- Other causes may include ganglion cysts pressing on nerves, alcohol-related nerve damage, or trauma to nerves.
In many cases, numbness occurs due to nerve irritation or poor circulation, and the symptoms can involve tingling, pain, or weakness along with numbness. Persistent or severe numbness should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to identify the underlying condition and appropriate treatment options.
