Why do hands and feet feel numb? What to do if this happens?

Causes of Tingling or Numbness in Hands and Feet

Tingling or numbness in hands and feet is usually caused by excessive pressure on nerves, reduced blood circulation or vitamin deficiency. The main causes are given below—

Main causes

1. Sitting or lying in one position for a long time - pressure on the nerves reduces blood circulation.
2. Vitamin deficiency - especially deficiency of vitamins B12, B6, D and magnesium weakens the nerves.
3. Circulation problems - blood circulation is disrupted due to high blood pressure, diabetes or blocked arteries.
4. Nerve problems (neuropathy) - can be caused by diabetes, hypothyroidism or nerve damage.
5. Electrolyte imbalance - Tingling can be felt if the body is deficient in sodium, potassium and calcium.
6. Prolonged exposure to cold - nerves are compressed, resulting in numbness in the hands and feet.
7. Excessive smoking and alcohol consumption - interfere with blood circulation and damage nerves.

What to do if this happens?

Quick fix

• Change posture - Changing your sitting or lying position will help blood circulation.
• Move your arms and legs - gently massage or shake the affected area.
• Drink warm water or do light stretching - will help increase blood circulation.
• Drink chili and ginger tea - helps normalize blood circulation.
• Drink water - if the body is dehydrated, the tingling sensation will decrease.

Long-term solution

Eat nutritious food

• Foods rich in vitamin B12 – milk, eggs, fish, meat
• Vitamin D – Eat milk, eggs and mushrooms while sitting in the sun
• Foods rich in potassium and magnesium – bananas, almonds, spinach, dark chocolate
• Omega-3 fatty acids – fish, walnuts, flax seeds

Exercise

• Walk for 30 minutes every day or do light yoga
• Stretching and leg exercises

Seek medical advice if:

Frequent or prolonged tingling

Muscle weakness or numbness

High blood pressure or diabetes

Following these habits will easily get rid of tingling in your hands and feet!