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What Causes Numbness in the Fingers

What Causes Numbness in the Fingers

Numbness in the fingers is characterized by little to no sensation in the fingers. You may touch an appliance that is chilled to the core or heated up to an extremely high temperature, yet you may feel no sensation in your fingers. It is a condition that typically affects the blood vessels and nerves in the hands. The condition is also referred to as paresthesia of the fingers. The damage to the nerves of the extremities of the fingers often leads to tingling and numbness. Of the many causes of numbness in the fingers, alcohol abuse is one of the most common. Diabetes is one of the major causes of numbness in the fingers as well. Let us visit some of the other causes of numbness in the fingers.

Causes of Numbness in the Fingers

  • Diabetes
    Diabetes is one of the leading causes of numbness in the fingers. A condition called diabetic neuropathy can lead to significant damage in the nerves present in the hands and the feet. This may lead to the sensation of numbness. However, generally, the onset of numbness begins in the feet before creeping up towards the rest of the body.
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
    This condition takes place when the nerve that allows your hand to feel becomes obstructed or pinched. This causes numbness in the middle and index fingers as well as the thumbs.
  • Cervical Radiculopathy
    This condition is characterized by the inflammation or compression of the nerve that leaves your neck. This condition may also lead to the onset of numbness in the hands through carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition is also known as the pinched nerve and is one the causes of numbness in the fingers.
  • Raynaud’s Disease
    Raynaud’s disease leads to the uncomfortable condition of small arteries in your fingers spamming, or closing or opening very fast. This affects the circulation of blood in the hands and can lead to numbness and pain.

Stroke, Raynaud’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and vascular diseases are some of the popular causes of numbness in the fingers. While the condition may be temporary or a result of a chronic condition, seek medical treatment immediately if the tingling and numbness in the fingers persist. Numbness in your fingers can have serious repercussions and may disrupt your normal way of life. If you have diabetes or drink too much alcohol, cut down on your abuse of alcohol and maintain a healthy diet to ensure that you are not at a high risk of contracting the condition.