What causes numbness and pain in the fingers?
Disease description:
During winter, when taking a nap by leaning on the desk, it can get quite cold. After waking up, the hands may change color and develop numbness and pain. Why do fingers become numb and painful?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Hand numbness and pain are common symptoms that may be caused by various factors.
1. Central causes: These are mainly due to impaired blood supply to the brain, such as impaired blood flow to the cerebral cortex, lacunar infarction, or even focal cerebral infarction. These conditions can lead to numbness and pain in the fingers.
2. Nerve compression: Maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods, such as extended use of computers, mobile phones, or musical instruments, can compress the nerves in the wrist or hand, leading to a condition called "nerve entrapment syndrome," such as carpal tunnel syndrome. In such cases, the fingers may feel numb or experience a tingling sensation.
4. Circulatory problems: When blood flow to the fingers is restricted, it can also cause numbness and pain. This may be due to prolonged exposure to cold environments, Raynaud's phenomenon, or arterial diseases.
5. Cervical spine problems: Degeneration of the cervical spine or cervical spondylosis is a common cause, especially when a herniated disc compresses the nerve roots, resulting in numbness and pain in the fingers.
6. Systemic diseases: Peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes can lead to numbness and pain in the fingers and toes. Additionally, a deficiency in B vitamins can cause peripheral neuritis, resulting in finger numbness.
If finger numbness and pain persist or worsen, it is recommended to seek medical treatment immediately.
