Numbness in the hands: What causes this?

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Numbness in the hands: What causes this?

Question: My hands seem to fall asleep very easily. What could cause

this?

Rena / Illinois

Answer:

The most common cause of intermittent numbness and tingling of the

hands or fingers is carpal tunnel syndrome. These sensations often

occur while holding a book or newspaper or while driving a vehicle.

They may also be present on awakening from sleep.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow space on the palm side of your wrist.

This tunnel protects a main nerve to your hand (median nerve) and

several tendons that bend your fingers. Pressure placed on the nerve

causes numbness, pain and eventually, hand weakness — all typical of

carpal tunnel syndrome.

Pressure on the median nerve can result from anything that reduces

space in the carpal tunnel — from bone spurs to the most common cause,

which is swelling or thickening of the lining and lubricating layer

(synovium) of the tendons in the carpal tunnel. The exact cause of such

swelling usually can't be determined. But it may be associated with a

variety of conditions and factors, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders,

rheumatoid arthritis, fluid retention in pregnancy, and repetitive use

or injury.

A doctor may make a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome based on signs

and symptoms and a physical examination. Treatment depends on the

severity of the condition.