[35F] Experiencing left hand numbness

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible causes for your symptoms include:

• Cervical Radiculopathy: This condition occurs when a nerve in the neck is irritated as it leaves the spinal canal. It can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm, hand, or fingers. It's usually caused by "wear and tear" changes that occur in the spine as we age, such as arthritis.

  • Treatment usually involves physical therapy, medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and in some cases, surgery.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. The condition occurs when one of the major nerves to the hand — the median nerve — is squeezed or compressed as it travels through the wrist.

  • Treatment usually involves wearing a wrist splint, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Peripheral Neuropathy: This results from damage to the peripheral nerves, which often causes weakness, numbness and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body.

  • Treatment usually involves managing the condition causing your neuropathy, relieving pain, managing complications and restoring function.

Please note that these are only possible causes, and you should consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Try to rest your hand and avoid activities that worsen your symptoms.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers might help relieve your symptoms.
3. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you should seek medical attention.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, severe pain in your arm or hand
• Sudden weakness or paralysis of your arm or hand
• Loss of sensation or inability to move your arm or hand
• Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.