Overview
Waking up with numb hands can be an unsettling and uncomfortable experience for many people. If you frequently experience pain and numbness in your arms and hands while sleeping or notice that your hands fall asleep at night, you may wonder what’s causing this sensation and how to address it. This blog explores the possible causes, from minor issues like posture to more serious conditions like multiple sclerosis. Whether you’re asking, “Why do my hands go numb when I sleep?” or seeking tips on how to fix numb hands, this blog is for you. In many cases, numbness in the hands while sleeping is related to pressure on nerves due to awkward positioning. However, chronic numbness could also signal underlying health issues that require medical attention. From practical solutions to alleviating numbness to recognizing when to see a doctor, this blog will help you take the necessary steps to regain normal sensation.
What are numbness and tingling sensations in hands?
Numbness and tingling sensations in the hands, called paresthesia, are abnormal feelings ranging from a mild “pins and needles” sensation to complete numbness. These sensations often result from irritation, damage, or compression of nerves in the hands or arms. When people experience numbness in the hands while sleeping, or throughout the day, it is usually due to disrupted nerve function, limiting the transmission of signals between the brain and affected areas.
Common causes of numbness and tingling include carpal tunnel syndrome, nerve compression, poor blood circulation, or serious neurological disorders. Conditions like diabetes or multiple sclerosis can damage nerves over time, leading to persistent numbness or tingling in the extremities.
If you wake up with numb hands in the morning or experience discomfort, such as pain and numbness in your arms and hands while sleeping, it’s crucial to investigate the cause. Temporarily numbness could be linked to posture or the pressure applied to nerves during sleep. However, chronic numbness may warrant medical attention to rule out more serious conditions.
Why are my hands numb when I wake up?
Waking up with numb hands can be caused by various factors, ranging from temporary pressure on nerves to underlying medical conditions. Here are some common causes of numb hands in the morning:
Sleeping Position causing numbness of the hand
An awkward position is one of the most frequent causes of hand numbness while sleeping. If you sleep with your arms bent or under your body, pressure on the nerves, such as the ulnar or radial nerve, can cause your hands to fall asleep at night. This limits blood flow and disrupts nerve signals, leading to numbness or tingling.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Numbness of hand
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed or irritated. People with this condition often report waking up with numb hands in the morning due to pressure placed on the wrists during sleep. Symptoms may worsen over time if left untreated.
Ulnar Nerve Compression leading to numbness and tingling sensation
The ulnar nerve, which runs from the neck down to the hand, can become compressed, especially if you sleep with your elbows bent or your arms tucked under your body. This compression can cause numbness in the ring and pinky fingers. Persistent pressure can lead to pain and numbness in the arms and hands while sleeping.
Numbness of hand due to Poor Circulation
Restricted blood flow to the hands can cause temporary numbness. This can happen when blood vessels are compressed, often due to sleeping awkwardly. Poor circulation may also result from medical conditions such as diabetes or vascular diseases.
Peripheral Neuropathy is the cause of numbness in the hand
Peripheral neuropathy involves damage to the peripheral nerves and is often caused by diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or alcohol abuse. People with neuropathy may experience numbness, tingling, or pain in their hands and feet, primarily upon waking.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and numbness of the hand
For some, waking up with numb hands in the morning can be an early sign of neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis. MS causes the immune system to attack the protective covering of nerves, leading to nerve damage that can cause sensations like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and numbness in the hands
This condition occurs when the nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib are compressed. Thoracic outlet syndrome can cause pain and numbness in arms and hands while sleeping, especially when lying in certain positions.
Vitamin Deficiency causes numbness in the hands.
Lack of essential vitamins, especially vitamin B12, can cause nerve damage and numb hands while sleeping or at any time. Ensuring proper nutrition can help mitigate this risk.
Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve in the Neck)
A pinched nerve in the neck, also known as cervical radiculopathy, can lead to numb hands while sleeping. This condition occurs when the nerves from the spinal cord to the hands are compressed or irritated. It can cause radiating pain, tingling, or numbness in the shoulders, arms, and hands, mainly when lying down.
Tendinitis leads to numbness.
Tendinitis, the inflammation of tendons in the hands or wrists, can sometimes cause numbness. Repetitive hand movements or sleeping in positions that stress the wrists may lead to inflammation, limiting blood flow and compressing nerves, resulting in numbness upon waking.
Diabetic Neuropathy
People with diabetes often experience diabetic neuropathy, which is a form of nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to numbness in the hands while sleeping and during the day and tingling, burning, or pain in the extremities.
Raynaud’s Disease
Raynaud’s disease is a condition that affects blood flow to certain parts of the body—usually the fingers and toes. When exposed to cold or stress, blood vessels narrow, reducing circulation and causing numbness or tingling. This can also happen during sleep, mainly if the hands are cold or under pressure.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Like carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome involves the compression of the ulnar nerve, but at the elbow rather than the wrist. This condition is commonly associated with pain and numbness in arms and hands while sleeping, particularly affecting the pinky and ring fingers. Sleeping with the elbow bent or resting on hard surfaces can exacerbate this condition.
Alcohol-Induced Neuropathy
Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to nerve damage, known as alcohol-induced neuropathy. This condition can cause numb hands in the morning due to the toxic effects of alcohol on the nerves, which disrupt normal nerve function over time.
Hypothyroidism and numb hands
Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, can contribute to nerve damage and lead to numbness in hands while sleeping. The slower metabolism associated with hypothyroidism can result in fluid retention and increased pressure on peripheral nerves, including those in the hands.
Autoimmune Diseases and paresthesias
Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or Sjögren’s syndrome can also cause nerve compression, leading to numbness in the extremities, including the hands. These conditions cause inflammation in joints and surrounding tissues, which can press on nerves and lead to numbness, especially during sleep when muscles are relaxed.
Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous lumps that typically develop along the tendons or joints of the wrists and hands. These cysts can pressure nearby nerves, leading to numb hands in the morning or throughout the day. They are often more noticeable when resting or after waking up.
If you experience chronic or severe numbness, especially when coupled with pain, weakness, or other symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.
How to treat numbness in hands?
Treating numbness in hands depends on the underlying cause, and treatment options range from lifestyle changes and home remedies to medications prescribed by healthcare professionals. Below are ways to address numbness in hands while sleeping and throughout the day, broken down into prescription medications, over-the-counter options, and home remedies.
Prescription Medications
For chronic or severe cases of numbness, especially when caused by conditions like nerve damage, multiple sclerosis, or diabetes, prescription medications may be necessary.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: Doctors may prescribe NSAIDs like celecoxib or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in conditions like carpal tunnel or arthritis.
- Anticonvulsants: Drugs like gabapentin or pregabalin help calm overactive nerves, reducing numbness from diabetic neuropathy or MS.
- Antidepressants: Medications like amitriptyline or duloxetine are used for nerve pain relief in conditions like fibromyalgia.
- Vitamin B12 Injections: Used to treat numbness caused by B12 deficiency.
- Steroid Injections: Reduce inflammation and nerve pressure in the carpal tunnel or cubital tunnel syndrome
Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be useful for mild to moderate cases of numbness, especially when caused by inflammation or minor nerve irritation.
- NSAIDs: OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen reduce inflammation and swelling around compressed nerves, easing numbness.
- Topical Analgesics: Creams with menthol, capsaicin, or lidocaine can temporarily relieve pain and numbness.
- Vitamin Supplements: B-complex vitamins, especially B12, support nerve health and can help alleviate numbness caused by deficiencies.
Home Remedies
- Adjust Sleeping Position: Avoid sleeping with arms bent or under the body to reduce nerve pressure. Use a wrist brace or elevate arms.
- Hand and Wrist Exercises: Stretch and strengthen hand muscles with wrist flexor stretches and grip strengthening to reduce nerve pressure.
- Cold and Heat Therapy: Use cold or warm compresses to reduce inflammation to improve circulation.
- Massage: Gently massage hands and wrists to stimulate circulation and relieve nerve compression.
- Elevation: Keep hands elevated to prevent swelling and pressure on nerves.
- Proper Ergonomics: Ensure wrists and hands are well-supported during daily tasks to avoid nerve compression.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet: Drink plenty of water and maintain a diet rich in B vitamins for nerve health.
How to prevent numbness in hands?
Preventing numbness in hands involves addressing its underlying causes, improving ergonomics, and making lifestyle adjustments. Here are several strategies to help prevent numbness:
Improve Sleeping Posture
One of the most common causes of numb hands in the morning is pressure on nerves while sleeping. To prevent sleeping with your arms under your body or bent. Consider using a wrist brace at night to neutralize your wrists, reducing the risk of nerve compression. Sleep on your back with arms placed comfortably at your sides or on pillows for support.
Maintain Proper Ergonomics
Ensuring proper ergonomics during daily activities can help prevent pain and numbness in arms and hands while sleeping or during the day.
If you work at a desk or use a computer frequently, keep your wrists neutral and avoid putting pressure on them for extended periods. Use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse. Take frequent breaks to stretch your hands and wrists. Avoid repetitive motions that strain your hands, and consider using wrist support if necessary.
Stretch and Strengthen Hand Muscles
Regular hand and wrist exercises can help reduce the risk of nerve compression.
- Wrist Flexor Stretch: Extend one arm before you, palm up. Use your other hand to gently pull your fingers back towards your body. Hold for 15–30 seconds, then switch hands.
- Wrist Extensor Stretch: Hold one arm before you, palm down. Use your other hand to pull the back of your hand towards your body. Hold for 15–30 seconds, then switch.
- Tendon Gliding Exercises: These exercises help improve mobility and reduce pressure on the median nerve, especially helpful for those with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Maintain Good Circulation
Good blood circulation is essential for preventing numbness. Some tips include:
- Avoid crossing your legs or arms for long periods.
- Keep your hands and wrists elevated while sleeping if swelling is an issue.
- Wear loose clothing that doesn’t restrict circulation to your arms or hands.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can lead to muscle cramping and nerve irritation, which may contribute to numbness. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps keep your muscles and nerves functioning properly.
Manage Chronic Conditions
If conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or multiple sclerosis are contributing to your numbness, managing these conditions effectively is key.
- Keep blood sugar levels under control if you have diabetes, as high sugar levels can damage nerves.
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan for any underlying conditions, including taking prescribed medications or attending physical therapy.
Avoid Repetitive Strain
Repetitive motions, such as typing, smartphone use, or manual labor, can lead to nerve compression and numbness over time.
- Take frequent breaks to rest your hands, especially during repetitive activities.
- Use ergonomic tools or padding to reduce strain on your hands.
Wear Wrist Braces or Splints
Wearing a wrist brace or splint can help keep your wrist neutral, particularly if you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. This prevents excessive flexing of the wrist, which can compress the median nerve.
Use Cold and Heat Therapy
Applying a warm compress to the hands and wrists can improve circulation and reduce numbness, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation and swelling in cases of repetitive strain or overuse injuries.
Monitor Vitamin Intake
Ensure you get enough vitamin B12 and other essential vitamins that help maintain nerve health. A deficiency in these vitamins can contribute to numbness in the hands and nerve damage over time.
By following these prevention tips, you can significantly reduce the chances of waking up with numb hands in the morning or experiencing numbness in your hands while sleeping. If symptoms persist despite these efforts, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional.
When to consult a doctor?
If numbness in hands while sleeping persists despite trying these remedies or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like weakness, pain, or loss of coordination, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Chronic numbness can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as diabetes, nerve compression, or multiple sclerosis, that requires professional intervention.
FAQs about why are my hands numb when i wake up
Guillain-Barré syndrome typically progresses rapidly, and early warning signs often start with sensations of numbness or tingling in the extremities (hands and feet). The most common early symptoms include:
Tingling and Numbness: They often begin in the hands and feet, sometimes spreading upwards toward the legs and arms.
Muscle Weakness: Weakness or loss of leg reflexes that may progress to the upper body.
Difficulty Walking or Maintaining Balance: GBS can affect coordination and make walking difficult.
Severe Pain: Some individuals experience pain, especially in the lower back or legs.
Difficulty with Eye Movements and Facial Expressions: In some cases, facial muscles may weaken, affecting expressions or eye movement.
Breathing Difficulties: In more severe cases, the muscles controlling breathing may weaken, requiring medical intervention.
GBS typically develops after an infection, such as the flu or a gastrointestinal infection, and can escalate to paralysis if not treated promptly. Early detection and treatment, such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) or plasma exchange, are crucial.
In Multiple Sclerosis (MS), hand numbness feels like:
Tingling or Pins and Needles: Similar to when a hand “falls asleep,” but lasting longer.
Burning or Itching: Sometimes, it feels like burning or itching.
Loss of Sensation: Partial or complete numbness, affecting grip and fine motor tasks.
Electric Shock Sensation: A shock-like feeling, often triggered by neck movement (Lhermitte’s sign).
The intensity and duration can vary, from temporary during relapses to chronic in advanced stages.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to numbness in the hands during sleep. B12 is crucial for nerve health, and its deficiency can result in nerve damage and numbness.
Adjust your sleeping position to avoid putting pressure on your hands or wrists, and consider using wrist braces. If numbness persists, consult a doctor to check for underlying issues like carpal tunnel syndrome or vitamin deficiencies.
However, the duration of hand numbness can generally vary depending on its cause. Temporary numbness, such as sleeping in an awkward position, should typically resolve within a few minutes to a few hours after removing the pressure on the affected nerve. On the other hand, chronic numbness caused by conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or nerve damage may last much longer, requiring treatment to resolve.
