Many people face the problem of sudden numbness or tingling in their hands and feet. It is often ignored, but it can be a sign of many serious diseases. 

Many people face the problem of sudden numbness or tingling in their hands and feet. It is often ignored, but it can be a sign of many serious diseases. Therefore, if you feel numbness in your hands and feet frequently or for a long time, then you should immediately contact a doctor. 

Dr. Vinit Banga, Director-Neurology and Head of Neurointervention at Fortis Hospital (Faridabad) explains that sometimes this symptom can be due to common reasons like bad posture or temporary nerve compression, but there can also be a serious neurological problem behind it. Therefore, it is very important to have the right information about these symptoms and consult an expert if they persist or worsen.

Common causes of numbness in the hands and feet

Numbness in the hands and feet can have many causes, ranging from temporary conditions to chronic disorders. Some common causes include:

1. Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy occurs when peripheral nerves, which transmit signals from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body, are damaged. Diabetes is the main cause of this condition, but it can also result from injury, infection, and exposure to toxins.

2. Carpal tunnel syndrome

This is a specific type of neuropathy in which the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed. It can cause numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, and if left untreated, the problem can get worse over time.

3. Vitamin deficiency

Vitamin deficiencies such as B12, B6, and E can cause nerve damage, leading to numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. This deficiency can be prevented by maintaining a balanced diet or taking supplements recommended by the doctor.

4. Multiple sclerosis (MS)

It is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, causing neurological symptoms such as numbness and tingling. MS can damage nerves in the brain and spinal cord, causing loss of sensation in various parts of the body.

5. Cervical Radiculopathy

This condition occurs when there is pressure on a nerve in the neck, often caused by herniated discs or bone spurs. It causes pain, numbness, and tingling that may radiate down the arms.

When should one seek medical help?

Although occasional numbness is not a matter of concern, if it is recurring or persistent, it should not be ignored. If you suddenly experience numbness in both your hands and feet simultaneously, it could be a sign of a serious problem that requires an immediate medical checkup. Also, if the numbness is accompanied by symptoms such as weakness, difficulty in walking, or loss of bladder or bowel control, it is very important to seek medical help immediately.