Why do my hands and feet become numb during the midday rest?

Generally, numbness in the hands and feet during a noon nap may be caused by improper posture, excessive nap duration, peripheral neuritis, multiple sclerosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, or other factors. Symptomatic management, including general treatment and medication, may be necessary. If discomfort persists, timely medical consultation is recommended for appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Improper Posture

Maintaining poor posture during a noon nap, such as prolonged lateral decubitus position compressing one side of the limbs or incorrect sitting posture causing pressure on the hands and feet, may lead to nerve compression or restricted blood circulation, resulting in limb numbness. It is recommended to adjust nap posture, avoid prolonged pressure on limbs, and consider using a pillow for support while lying on your side or back to reduce pressure.

2. Excessive Nap Duration

Extended sleep may cause the body to enter a deep dormant state, slowing blood circulation and metabolism, leading to insufficient blood supply to the limbs and resulting in numbness. Symptoms may also include fatigue and difficulty concentrating. It is recommended to control nap duration, ideally between half an hour to one hour, avoiding excessively short or long naps.

3. Peripheral Neuritis

When the immune system is weakened, viral invasion may damage multiple peripheral nerves, causing inflammatory reactions and symptoms such as cold skin on extremities, limb numbness, and movement disorders, possibly accompanied by cold skin and abnormal sensations. It is recommended to take medications such as hydrocortisone acetate tablets, vitamin B6 tablets, and vitamin B12 under medical guidance.

4. Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system, damaging nerve myelin sheaths, impairing nerve conduction, and causing limb numbness. Symptoms may include blurred vision and limb weakness. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use medications like glatiramer acetate injection, dimethyl fumarate enteric-coated capsules, and teriflunomide tablets to alleviate symptoms.

5. Raynaud's Phenomenon

Raynaud's phenomenon is a circulatory disorder characterized by sensitivity of fingers or toes to cold or emotional stress, causing color changes and numbness. Symptoms may include color changes in fingers or toes, shifting from pale to bluish-purple, and finally returning to normal. It is recommended to use medications such as glyceryl trinitrate patches, amlodipine tablets, and prazosin hydrochloride tablets under medical supervision.

It is also recommended to engage in regular physical activities, such as walking or jogging, to promote blood circulation, enhance vascular elasticity, and reduce the likelihood of limb numbness.