Numbness in fingertips after quitting smoking

Jun 06, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Numbness in the fingertips after quitting smoking may be caused by physiological factors, cervical spondylosis, anemia, or other reasons, and targeted treatment should be based on the specific underlying cause. In addition to the common causes mentioned above, other factors such as autonomic nervous system dysfunction, polyneuritis, or peripheral neuropathy could also be responsible. Patients should seek timely medical attention to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.

In general, numbness in the fingertips after quitting smoking may be caused by physiological factors, or it could result from conditions such as cervical spondylosis or anemia. Targeted treatment should be based on the specific underlying cause. The details are as follows:

1. Physiological Factors

This is usually due to psychological stress. Symptoms tend to ease once emotions stabilize and are considered a normal part of withdrawal, generally requiring no special concern.

2. Disease-Related Factors

1) Cervical Spondylosis
Individuals with pre-existing cervical spondylosis may experience symptom exacerbation during smoking cessation due to mental tension. This can trigger the condition, irritating or compressing surrounding nerves, leading to finger numbness accompanied by headaches, dizziness, and other discomforts. In such cases, medications like Maizhiling tablets or Oryzanol tablets should be taken under medical supervision.

2) Anemia
Anemia impairs blood supply to various parts of the body, potentially causing numbness in the fingertips, along with symptoms such as fatigue and pale skin. Treatment may include medications such as Shengxuening tablets or oral iron dextran solution, taken under medical guidance.

Besides the common causes mentioned above, other possible factors include autonomic nervous dysfunction, polyneuritis, or peripheral neuropathy. Patients should seek timely medical attention to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.