Why do i have numbness on left side of hand and last two fingers hand?
Numbness in the left side of the hand and the last two fingers (the ring finger and little finger) can have several possible causes, ranging from nerve compression to underlying medical conditions. Here are a few potential reasons why you might be experiencing this:
1. Ulnar Nerve Compression: The ulnar nerve is responsible for sensation in the little finger, half of the ring finger, and part of the palm. Compression or damage to this nerve can lead to numbness in these areas. This condition, known as ulnar neuropathy, can occur due to prolonged pressure on the elbow or wrist, certain repetitive hand movements, or underlying anatomical variations.
2. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common nerve compression issue that occurs in the wrist. When the median nerve, which supplies sensation to the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger, becomes compressed in the carpal tunnel, it can result in numbness and other symptoms in these fingers.
3. Cervical Spine Issues: Conditions affecting the bones, discs, or nerves in the cervical (neck) spine can sometimes lead to numbness in the hand and fingers. For instance, a herniated disc or bone spurs may press on the nerve roots that connect to the arm and hand, causing symptoms such as tingling or numbness.
4. Peripheral Neuropathy: Various forms of peripheral neuropathy, which involve damage to the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord, can cause numbness and other sensory abnormalities. This can occur due to conditions such as diabetes, vitamin B12 deficiency, autoimmune disorders, or certain medications.
5. Stroke: In rare cases, sudden numbness on one side of the body, including the hand, can be a sign of a stroke. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Other stroke symptoms such as facial drooping, speech difficulties, or confusion are often present in such cases.
6. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Thoracic outlet syndrome refers to a group of conditions that involve compression of nerves, blood vessels, or both in the area between the collarbone and the first rib. This can sometimes lead to symptoms in the hand and fingers, including numbness.
7. Vasculitis: Vasculitis is a rare condition characterized by inflammation of blood vessels. Certain types of vasculitis can affect the smaller arteries in the hands, causing symptoms such as numbness and pain.
8. Raynaud's Disease: Raynaud's disease is a condition that affects blood flow to the fingers. It can cause episodes of numbness, tingling, and discoloration (usually turning white or blue) in the fingers in response to cold temperatures or stress.
It's important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause of the numbness in your left hand and last two fingers. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination, medical history review, and any necessary diagnostic tests, to identify the underlying issue and recommend appropriate treatment. Self-diagnosis and treatment are not recommended in cases of persistent or unexplained numbness.