• Numbness is a condition where a person suffers deficiency or loss of feel (sensation).
• The condition is usually caused by peripheral nerve impingement.
• Numbness can occur on any part of the body depending on the type and location of the affected nerve.
• Numbness more often is felt on the fingertips, palms, soles, upper arms and legs.

Numbness can be caused by the following conditions:

• Injury to the nerves in an accident
• Peripheral nerve compress caused by ‘herniated disc’ or osteophytes formed as a result of a degenerative process
• Infection of the peripheral nerves such as in shingles
• Diseases such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, stroke and hypothyroidism
• Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (Median nerve is compressed in the wrist area)
• Lack of vitamins in the body, such as vitamin B12 and folate deficiency
• Side effects of drugs, such as isoniazide. Nerve damage due to toxic substances such as lead poisoning, alcohol and cigarettes

Action To Be Taken

• See your doctor if you experience numbness for further examination and treatment
• See your doctor immediately, if you feel numbness in the following situations:
  • you had an accident involving the head
  • if you experience symptoms such as limb weakness, difficulty speaking, dizziness and headaches that come with sudden severity
• Get an appointment to see a doctor immediately if you experience numbness that worsens quickly, involving both the upper and lower body- especially when you do certain activities; the numbness could be at the tip of toes and hands

Diagnosis / Treatment

• The doctor will interview, carry out physical examination and perform tests as needed to assist in making the diagnosis
• Numbness may disappear or at least be prevented from worsening after receiving specific treatment for the disease that causes numbness
• Numbness that spreads rapidly needs immediate attention of the doctor
• Numbness that causes weakening and paralysis also needs immediate attention of the doctor