What causes numbness in hands and feet in depression, and what should be done about it?
Nov 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
In general, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet of patients with depression may be caused by factors such as hyperventilation leading to alkalosis, poor circulation due to prolonged physical inactivity, depressive disorder associated with adjustment disorder, somatization of depression, or depression complicated by peripheral neuropathy. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms through general measures, medication, or other treatments under a doctor's guidance.
Generally, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet of patients with depression may be caused by alkalosis due to hyperventilation, poor circulation from prolonged inactivity, depressive disorder with adjustment disorder, somatization of depression, or depression accompanied by peripheral neuropathy. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medications, and other approaches. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Hyperventilation-induced alkalosis: During depressive episodes, rapid breathing leads to excessive carbon dioxide elimination, causing respiratory alkalosis and resulting in numbness or tingling in the extremities. Immediately cover the mouth and nose with a paper bag and breathe slowly to reduce CO₂ loss. Practice deep breathing exercises to stabilize emotions and prevent irregular breathing patterns.
2. Poor circulation due to prolonged inactivity: Depression can lead to slowed movement, prolonged sitting, or bed rest, impairing blood flow to the limbs and causing numbness. Get up and move at regular intervals each day; perform stretching and rubbing exercises for hands and feet for 10 minutes at a time to promote peripheral circulation, and avoid maintaining the same posture for extended periods.
3. Adjustment disorder with depression: Following significant life stressors, individuals may develop depressive moods along with physical symptoms such as numbness. Patients should take medications such as lorazepam tablets, alprazolam tablets, or estazolam tablets as prescribed, and receive psychological counseling to alleviate mental stress.
4. Somatization of depression: Depressive emotions manifest physically, with numbness in the hands and feet being a common presentation, often accompanied by low mood. Under medical supervision, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as sertraline tablets, paroxetine tablets, or fluvoxamine tablets may be used, combined with cognitive behavioral therapy to address negative thought patterns.
5. Depression with peripheral neuropathy: Chronic depression may impair nerve nutrition, leading to peripheral nerve damage, with numbness progressively worsening. Follow medical advice to use medications such as fluoxetine hydrochloride capsules, mecobalamin tablets, and vitamin B12 tablets to support nerve health and manage depressive symptoms.
In daily life, increase intake of foods rich in B-complex vitamins, such as eggs, lean meat, and soy products. Avoid coffee and strong tea to prevent increased nervous system excitability and worsening discomfort. Engage moderately in gentle exercises such as tai chi or yoga, which can help improve mood and enhance blood circulation.
