Numbness in the hands occurs when one of the nerves is subjected to pressure or when blood flow to the hand decreases temporarily, leading to tingling or a loss of sensation.
This feeling often disappears within minutes after changing the position of the hand. However, the persistence or frequent recurrence of symptoms may indicate a disorder requiring medical evaluation.
The causes range from simple factors related to sleeping position, to issues involving nerves, blood circulation, or chronic diseases.
Reasons for Hand Numbness on Waking
1. Incorrect Sleeping Position
One of the most common reasons for hand numbness is the sleeping position. Sleeping in a way that puts pressure on the arm, wrist, or hand can temporarily compress nerves or blood vessels.
The numbness usually fades within minutes after changing posture and moving the hand.
2. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve inside the wrist. It is a significant cause of hand numbness, especially at night or upon waking.
Symptoms can also include pain or weakness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, sometimes making it difficult to grasp objects.
3. Neck Nerve Compression
Problems such as cervical disc herniation or vertebral stiffness can compress nerves exiting the spinal cord.
This may result in numbness that extends from the neck to the shoulder, arm, and hand.
4. Diabetic Neuropathy
Long-term high blood sugar levels can damage nerves, known as diabetic neuropathy.
Though symptoms often start in the feet, some patients also experience numbness or tingling in the hands.
5. Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve health; its deficiency can lead to tingling or numbness in hands and feet, along with symptoms like fatigue and poor concentration.
6. Calcium or Magnesium Deficiency
Low levels of minerals such as calcium or magnesium can affect nerve and muscle function, potentially causing numbness or cramps in some individuals.
7. Poor Circulation
Reduced blood flow to the hands due to pressure on blood vessels during sleep or certain vascular conditions can cause temporary numbness upon awakening.
8. Neurological Diseases
In some cases, numb hands might be linked to neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or peripheral nerve disorders. These instances often come with additional symptoms and require medical evaluation.
Symptoms That May Accompany Hand Numbness
Numbness might be accompanied by other symptoms like:
- Tingling or "pins and needles" sensation.
- Weak hand grip.
- Wrist or arm pain.
- Neck or shoulder pain.
- Difficulty moving the fingers.
- Temporary loss of sensation.
See also:
Why Do I Feel Tingling in My Body?