What causes numbness in fingertips after a high fever, and what should be done?
Apr 29, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
In general, numbness in the fingertips after a high fever may be related to non-disease factors such as poor blood circulation, medication side effects, or electrolyte imbalances, or it could be associated with medical conditions such as peripheral neuritis or diabetes. It is recommended to seek targeted treatment accordingly. Patients should consult a doctor for examination and follow medical advice for proper management. Additionally, getting adequate rest and drinking plenty of water in daily life can help support recovery.
High fever refers to hyperthermia. Generally, after developing a high fever, numbness in the fingertips may be related to poor blood circulation, drug side effects, electrolyte imbalance, peripheral neuritis, diabetes, and other medical conditions. Management may include massage, medication adjustment, electrolyte supplementation, neurotrophic support, and blood glucose control. It is recommended to seek medical evaluation and follow the doctor's advice for appropriate management. Details are as follows:
1. Poor blood circulation: During high fever, blood vessels dilate and blood flow may slow down, leading to inadequate peripheral blood supply, which can cause abnormal sensations in the fingertips, including numbness. Massaging the hands can help improve circulation.
2. Drug side effects: Medications such as antibiotics or antipyretic analgesics used to treat high fever may have side effects affecting the nervous system, resulting in fingertip numbness. Consult a doctor to adjust dosage or switch medications.
3. Electrolyte imbalance: High fever often causes excessive sweating, leading to loss of electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and calcium, which may result in electrolyte disturbances. These imbalances can affect neuromuscular function and cause fingertip numbness. According to medical advice, drugs such as furosemide tablets, hydrochlorothiazide tablets, or potassium chloride sustained-release tablets may be used to restore electrolyte balance.
4. Peripheral neuritis: Prolonged high fever and systemic inflammation may damage or irritate nerves, causing peripheral neuritis and resulting in numbness in the fingertips. As directed by a physician, neurotrophic medications such as mecobalamin capsules, carbamazepine tablets, or vitamin B12 tablets may be used for treatment.
5. Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are prone to nerve damage due to chronic hyperglycemia, particularly peripheral neuropathy. During episodes of high fever, symptoms such as numbness or tingling in fingers or toes may occur. Follow medical guidance using medications like insulin glargine injection, acarbose capsules, or metformin hydrochloride sustained-release tablets to help control blood glucose levels.
In daily life, adequate rest and increased fluid intake are also important to support recovery.
