Numb fingers may point to nerve, vascular or stroke-related problems

Numbness in the fingers can be a sign of nerve or blood vessel disorders, and specialists advise against ignoring it. The possible causes and risks are described by the Russian sports and health website “Championat”, citing experts.

Nerve compression

If the thumb, index finger and middle finger go numb, and the sensation worsens at night and in the morning, it may point to carpal tunnel syndrome, in which the median nerve is compressed. Without treatment, muscle atrophy and loss of sensation can develop in the hand, and advanced cases require surgery.

Numbness in the little finger and ring finger may be caused by compression of the ulnar nerve.

Numbness can also be linked to herniated intervertebral discs and bony growths on the neck vertebrae. In that case the whole arm becomes numb, accompanied by stabbing pain and muscle weakness. If compression of the nerve roots is left untreated, it can lead to permanent paresis, a partial loss of muscle strength.

Vascular and metabolic causes

In Raynaud's disease, fingers turn white or blue in the cold or under stress, and pain appears as they warm up. Delayed treatment may lead to trophic disorders, meaning impaired tissue nutrition, including necrosis.

Diabetic polyneuropathy begins at the fingertips with symmetrical numbness that spreads upward. A person loses the ability to feel pain and wounds, so ulcers can form and, in severe cases, amputations may follow.

When to see a doctor urgently

The most dangerous sign is sudden numbness accompanied by weakness on one side of the body, facial or speech disturbances, or severe headache. These are signs of a stroke or a transient ischemic attack, when every minute counts. Numbness after an injury also calls for prompt action, since a severed nerve can only be restored by timely surgery.