What causes numbness in the tongue and fingers?

Mar 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, numbness in the tongue and fingers may be caused by cold environments, improper posture or pressure, vitamin B12 deficiency, multiple sclerosis, cervical spondylosis, or other factors. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment, medication, and other approaches. It is recommended to engage in moderate exercise daily to promote blood circulation, improve physical fitness, and reduce the occurrence of discomfort symptoms.

    Under normal circumstances, numbness in the tongue and fingers may be caused by cold environments, improper posture or compression, vitamin B12 deficiency, multiple sclerosis, cervical spondylosis, and other factors. Symptomatic management through general treatment and medication might be necessary. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

    1. Cold Environment

    In cold environments, the body constricts peripheral blood vessels to reduce heat loss, which may lead to poor circulation in extremities such as the fingers, causing numbness often accompanied by localized coldness. It is recommended to wear appropriate gloves and clothing and avoid prolonged exposure to cold environments.

    2. Improper Posture or Compression

    Maintaining incorrect posture for extended periods, such as sleeping on one side or experiencing continuous pressure on certain body parts, may lead to poor blood circulation, resulting in numbness in the fingertips and tongue. This condition is usually temporary and does not accompany other symptoms. It is recommended to adjust posture, avoid prolonged immobility, engage in appropriate physical activity, and promote blood circulation.

    3. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

    Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient for maintaining nervous system health. A deficiency can damage the nerve myelin sheath, impairing nerve conduction and causing a sensation of numbness. In addition to numbness, symptoms may include fatigue, memory decline, and anemia. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as adenosylcobalamin tablets, mecobalamin tablets, or vitamin B12 tablets to alleviate symptoms.

    4. Multiple Sclerosis

    Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath of the central nervous system, damaging nerve fibers and disrupting nerve signal transmission, leading to numbness in the tongue and fingers. It may also be accompanied by vision problems, muscle weakness, balance difficulties, and other symptoms. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as recombinant human interferon beta-1b for injection, glatiramer acetate injection, or dimethyl fumarate enteric-coated capsules for treatment.

    5. Cervical Spondylosis

    Cervical spondylosis may be related to developmental spinal canal stenosis, chronic strain, and other factors. Cervical spine conditions, such as herniated discs or bone spurs compressing cervical nerve roots, can interfere with nerve conduction, causing numbness in the fingers and tongue, possibly accompanied by neck pain, shoulder soreness, arm weakness, and other symptoms. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as chlorzoxazone tablets, eperisone hydrochloride tablets, or naproxen sodium tablets to alleviate symptoms.

    It is recommended to engage in moderate daily exercise, such as jogging, swimming, or cycling, to promote blood circulation, enhance physical fitness, and reduce the occurrence of discomfort symptoms.