[50F] Experiencing numbness when lying on right side

Patient Description

A 50-year-old female reports experiencing tingling and numbness in her left arm and left leg when lying on her right side, a condition that has been persisting for 5 years. This numbness is significant enough to impact her ability to sleep. The sensation described could range from a mild tingling to a more severe loss of sensation, indicating possible nerve compression or circulation issues when in specific positions. No additional symptoms or medical history were provided to further contextualize these symptoms.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Peripheral Neuropathy: This is a result of damage to your peripheral nerves, often causing weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body.

    • Treatment typically involves managing the condition causing your neuropathy. In some situations, over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief.
  • Pinched Nerve: The numbness you're experiencing could be due to a pinched nerve in your neck or back. This can occur when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues.

    • Treatment for a pinched nerve depends on the severity and cause. Rest and avoiding activities that aggravate the nerve can often relieve symptoms.
  • Circulation Issues: Poor circulation can cause numbness and tingling in the extremities. This could be due to a variety of conditions, including peripheral artery disease, diabetes, obesity, or even certain lifestyle factors like lack of exercise and smoking.

    • Treatment for circulation issues often involves lifestyle changes and managing underlying conditions.

Please remember that these are only potential causes. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Try to avoid laying on your right side if it causes numbness in your left arm and leg.
  2. Regular exercise can improve circulation and may help reduce symptoms.
  3. Over-the-counter pain relievers may provide temporary relief, but should not be used long-term without consulting a healthcare professional.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

  • Sudden, severe pain in your arm or leg
  • Trouble walking or moving your arm or leg
  • Weakness or paralysis in any part of your body
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Unexplained, severe headache

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of tingling and numbness in the limbs?

Common causes of tingling and numbness in the limbs include peripheral neuropathy, pinched nerves, and circulation issues. These can be due to nerve damage, pressure on nerves, or poor blood flow, respectively.


How can a pinched nerve be treated effectively?

Treatment for a pinched nerve often involves rest, avoiding activities that worsen the symptoms, physical therapy, and sometimes medications to reduce inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.


What lifestyle changes can improve circulation and reduce numbness?

Improving circulation can involve regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and managing underlying health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity can also help.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for numbness and tingling?

Immediate medical attention should be sought if you experience sudden, severe pain, difficulty walking or moving limbs, weakness or paralysis, loss of bladder or bowel control, or an unexplained, severe headache.


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1 Comments


Leo#3962

9 mo ago

If it's happening on your left side while you lie down on your right side, the circulation issue sounds more probable since a pinched nerve is usually on the side that you're compressing the side that has symptoms. Have you ever looked into peripheral arterial problems with a doctor?

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