Have you ever woken up to find your hands feeling numb or tingly? If yes, you’re not alone.
The good news is that this pins-and-needles sensation isn’t usually harmful. According to the Mayo Clinic, numbness isn’t typically linked to serious conditions like strokes or tumors.
Often, this feeling is easy to fix. One common reason is your sleeping position. If you’ve been lying on your hands during the night, you might wake up with a loss of sensation in them.
Tingling can also happen due to repetitive hand and finger movements, like typing or using tools. These movements can compress nerves, potentially leading to carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition affects the median nerve in the wrist and can require surgery if severe.
Another possible cause is a vitamin B12 deficiency, especially in vegans and vegetarians. Vitamin B12 is found in animal products and fortified cereals, but supplements are also an option.
Low levels of calcium, potassium, or sodium in the body can also cause tingling. This can happen due to dehydration, certain medications, or health problems. To prevent this, stay hydrated, eat nutrient-rich foods, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
People with long-term high blood sugar can experience diabetic neuropathy, leading to numbness or burning sensations in the hands and feet. Nerve compression from a herniated disc or neck spondylosis can also cause these symptoms.
Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, poor circulation, and non-cancerous growths such as ganglion cysts may lead to numbness and tingling too.
While these sensations are often harmless, persistent numbness should be checked by a doctor.
