Other accompanying symptoms
Other symptoms that can accompany numbness of the hand are tingling and “formication” or a furry feeling. The perception of temperature can be disturbed, so that cold and heat can no longer be properly distinguished. The sensation of vibration can also be disturbed, which can be checked by examining the hand with a tuning fork.
The reflexes can be reduced to extinct and finally a reduction in strength with muscle loss can also occur. More information about other symptoms can be found here: Tingling in the handNot infrequently, sensitivity disorders are accompanied by sensations and pain. The pain is often shooting and electrifying.
This pain is called neuropathic pain because it is caused by nerve damage. Accordingly, they do not respond to normal painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol. If suddenly severe pain of a limb occurs, one should also think of a circulatory disorder. In the case of a circulatory disorder of the artery (embolism), the hand suddenly turns white and cold, in contrast to the thrombosis of the vein in the hand which turns red and hot. In case of such a suspicion, an immediate presentation to the doctor is necessary.
The diagnosis
In order to make a diagnosis of sensory disorders, a detailed conversation with a precise description of the symptoms and previous illnesses is necessary in the first place. This is followed by a physical examination with a test of surface sensitivity, sensation of pain, temperature and vibration, as well as reflexes and degree of strength. In order to define the damage to the nerve more precisely, a neurophysiological examination then takes place. This involves electroneurography (ENG) to measure nerve conduction velocity and electromyography to assess muscle damage. Depending on the underlying disease, further tests may be necessary.
Which doctor will treat this?
In case of central or peripheral nerve damage, the neurologist is the doctor of choice. This specialty deals with the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. They can also diagnose and treat neuropathic pain and sensitivity disorders. However, if surgical therapy is necessary, the neurosurgeon is called in. In case of herniated discs, trauma surgeons can also operate.
