Why Are My Hands Tingling? Understanding Numbness and Paresthesia
Ever woken up to a strange tingling in your hands, almost like tiny needles poking at your skin? This is called paresthesia, and it’s more common than you might think. Often harmless—like when you’ve accidentally slept on your arm—it can sometimes signal an underlying health issue. Knowing what triggers this sensation can help you decide when it’s time to seek medical advice.
Typical Causes of Hand Numbness
Hand numbness or tingling often feels unusual and can be uncomfortable. It may show up on its own or alongside that classic “pins and needles” feeling. There are many reasons this might happen—some minor, some more serious.
A leading cause? Pressure on a nerve. This can result from everyday habits, such as:
Sleeping in a strange position: Your arm or hand may be compressed under your head or body while you sleep.
Repetitive use: Tasks like typing or frequent mouse use can stress wrist nerves and lead to conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Prolonged leaning on elbows: This may compress the ulnar nerve—commonly known as the “funny bone”—which can cause numbness.
Other times, numbness stems from physical changes in the body that affect the nerves, like:
A pinched nerve in the neck, often due to a herniated disc.
Injury directly impacting nerves in the hand or arm.
Swelling or masses—from tumors, infections, or enlarged blood vessels—that compress nerves.
Medical Conditions That May Cause Tingling or Numbness
