How to Interpret Numbness in the Tips of the Fingers

Numbness or a tingling sensation in the fingertips (or other extremities) can be caused by a multitude of medical ailments. Sensory loss occurs most commonly when the body remains in one position for an extended amount of time. However, in such an event, sensation should return within five minutes. If sensation does not return within 30 minutes-or sensory loss occurs due to an unexplainable reason-seek immediate medical attention.

Things You'll Need

• Medical diagnosis

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Instructions

How to Interpret Numbness in the Tips of the Fingers

• 1

  Understand that a lack of steady blood flow to any area can cause a loss of sensation. Unfortunately, a lack of bloody supply is not always caused by simply remaining in one position for an extended period of time, but rather caused by excess plaque in your arteries. This condition is called atherosclerosis and should be treated immediately due to the risk of heart failure and other, possibly life-ending, conditions.

• 2

  Consult a physician if you experience consistent neck pain coupled with numbness of your fingertips. In many cases, a herniated disk will put pressure on the nerves of your spine, which are directly connected-and serve a major feed of information-to your extremities. Surgery will, often, correct a herniated disk, but be prepared for up to nine months of recovery after the procedure.

• 3

  Examine your wrists for any symptoms closely related with carpal tunnel syndrome. According to Medical Help's Website, carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when pressure is placed on the “median nerve at the point where it passes through the wrist.” Excess pressure on the median nerve can cause tingling or loss of sensation in the fingertips. If you experience any wrist pain coupled with loss of sensation in your fingertips, consult a physician who specializes in carpal tunnel syndrome.

• 4

  Consult a physician if a rash, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fatigue accompany loss of sensation in your fingertips. According to Medical Help's Website, those symptoms indicate a more severe problem and should be treated immediately.

• 5

  Consult a physician if you experience loss of sensation or tingling in your fingertips for any reason that is not listed above. Other causes such as migraines and stroke can cause numbness in the fingertips and should not be taken lightly, as, many times, loss of sensation in an extremity is simply an early warning sign for something much more severe.