Why do your hands go numb in your sleep: causes and how you can prevent it

Jul 26, 2024

By Difrnt Agency

What is numbness and how does it occur?

Have you ever wondered how numbness occurs? This is actually an unpleasant sensation that consists of the loss of sensitivity or the appearance of tingling in a certain area of the body, most often in the hands and feet. It is good to know that it occurs when the nerves in that area do not transmit signals to the brain correctly. Numbness may be temporary, caused by pressure on nerves or lack of blood flow, or it may be a symptom of more serious conditions that require medical attention.

Why do my hands go numb at night?

People most often complain of numbness in the hands during sleep, followed by numbness in the legs. There are several reasons why hands can go numb during the night, and below we present some of them.

Your sleeping position: If you tend to sleep in a position that puts pressure on your hands, nerves and blood vessels can be compressed, leading to numbness. For example, sleeping with your arm under your head or body can cause this problem.
Peripheral neuropathy: It is a condition where the peripheral nerves are damaged. Diabetes is a common cause of peripheral neuropathy, but other conditions, such as alcoholism or infections, can also cause this problem.
Circulatory problems: Reduced blood flow to the hands can cause numbness. This can be the result of heart problems, low blood pressure or blocked blood vessels.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: is a condition in which the median nerve, which passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, is compressed. Symptoms include numbness and tingling in the fingers, especially at night.

What conditions could numbness in the hands indicate?

Why do my hands go numb in my sleep? Most of the time, numbness of the hands in sleep is caused by the sleeping position. However, there are also situations where it can be a symptom of more serious conditions that require medical evaluation and treatment. Here are some of them.

Carpal tunnel syndrome: Can be diagnosed through consultation and specific tests such as electromyography. Treatment may include wrist braces, anti-inflammatory medications, and, in severe cases, surgery.
Diabetes: Unfortunately, diabetic neuropathy is a complication of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels cause nerve damage. Diabetes treatment and tight blood sugar control can help prevent and manage symptoms.
Cardiovascular problems: Impaired blood circulation can be a sign of cardiovascular disease, such as arteriosclerosis. Proper evaluation and treatment of heart problems is essential to prevent serious complications.
Neurological conditions: Multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases can cause numbness in the hands. These conditions require specialized diagnosis and treatment.

When is it good to go to the doctor?

If your hands frequently go numb during sleep, it is important to consult a doctor. There are some symptoms that you should not ignore and because of which you should not postpone going to the doctor.

Persistent numbness: If the numbness doesn't go away after changing your sleeping position or massaging the affected area, it could be a sign of a more serious problem.
Severe pain: If numbness is accompanied by severe pain, muscle weakness, or loss of coordination, prompt medical evaluation is required.
Systemic symptoms: If you have other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion or loss of consciousness, you should seek medical help immediately.
Pre-existing conditions: If you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, and start experiencing numbness in your hands, it's important to talk to your doctor.

What treatments are there for hand numbness?

As with any medical condition, treatment for hand numbness at night depends on the cause and severity. Thus, the treatment options can be very simple or they can be about prevention and can even reach surgical interventions.

Changing your sleeping position: This is most often recommended, as adjusting the way you sleep will reduce pressure on your hands and arms and prevent numbness.
Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome: This may include wearing a brace at night to keep the wrist in a neutral position, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or even surgery.
Diabetes control: Keeping blood sugar levels under control can help prevent diabetic neuropathy and improve existing symptoms.
Medicines: Depending on the cause of the numbness, the doctor may prescribe medicines to relieve pain, reduce inflammation or improve blood circulation.
Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises, as well as massage, can help reduce symptoms and improve nerve and muscle function.

How can you prevent hand numbness?

Preventing hand numbness at night can involve changing your lifestyle and adopting healthy habits.

First, avoid sleeping with your arms under your head or body and try to use a pillow that supports your neck and head in a neutral position. During the day, make sure you have good posture, especially if you work long hours at the desk. Use ergonomic equipment (special mouse and keyboard) to reduce pressure on hands and wrists.

Regular physical activity can improve blood circulation and nerve health. Stretching and strengthening exercises can be especially helpful. Also, maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome and other conditions that can cause hand numbness.

So, if you experience numbness in your hands while you sleep , try to change your sleeping position, and if it persists, schedule a consultation with a specialist!

Sources:

https://www.health.com/hand-numbness-8363668