Polyneuropathy is a disease of the peripheral nervous system that is associated with sensory disturbances and numbness in the hands and feet. These are triggered by irritated, inflamed or damaged nerve pathways. Depending on the cause of the disease, there may be other symptoms; for example, muscle weakness often occurs.
Diabetic polyneuropathy
A special form is diabetic polyneuropathy, which is accompanied by typical diabetes symptoms such as severe thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue and tiredness. In addition to diabetes, polyneuropathy can also be caused by chronic alcohol abuse, poisoning or infections, among other things. If a polyneuropathy is the cause of the numbness, treatment depends on the particular form of polyneuropathy.
Herniated disc as a cause
In the case of a herniated disc, pressure on the nerve root can cause pain in the respective supply area of the nerve. These are often accompanied by tingling or a feeling of numbness. If such symptoms occur, a doctor should always be consulted as a precaution. He can examine whether a herniated disc is present and whether it should be treated conservatively or by surgery. However, the latter is usually only necessary in severe cases.
In addition to a herniated disc, other problems in the spine, especially in the cervical spine, can cause numbness in the hands, feet or on the skin. Usually, the numb feeling then occurs together with an unpleasant tingling sensation in the affected limbs. Therefore, if you have persistent problems with the sense of feeling, you should definitely remember to have yourself examined by an orthopedist.
Stroke as a cause
In a stroke, the brain is no longer supplied with enough blood and therefore not enough oxygen and nutrients. Because the affected area can no longer perform its function, various disorders occur. These disturbances can also include nervous failures.
Nerval deficits can cause arms or legs to feel numb and unable to move. Typically, such numbness occurs only on one side during a stroke. Other symptoms that may indicate a stroke include headaches, dizziness, nausea, impaired vision and speech, and signs of paralysis. If you suspect a stroke, you should call a doctor immediately.
Infections, migraines, and tumors as triggers
A wide variety of infections with bacteria or viruses can trigger a numb feeling in the body. Such infections include shingles or Lyme disease, for example. Depending on the type and severity of the infection, the attending physician will prescribe appropriate medication; bacterial infections are usually treated with antibiotics.
A feeling of numbness in the head or face is often a harbinger of a migraine attack. In addition, such a numb feeling can also indicate circulatory disorders and tumors in the brain, as well as anxiety or panic attacks. In the face, numbness can also be caused by burns or frostbite, as well as by disorders of the nerves in the face. Multiple sclerosis (MS) may also cause numbness in the face, as well as in the arms or legs.
Finally, vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause numbness, which often occurs on the tongue. In addition, sensory disturbances can also occur in the hands and feet. This is because vitamin B12 is crucial for our nervous system and a deficiency can lead to disorders in the central nervous system. In addition to numbness, such a deficiency can also cause symptoms such as pallor, fatigue and concentration problems.