Numbness in hands describes a loss of sensation or feeling in your hands or fingers. Numbness in hands is usually caused by irritation or compression of a branch of a nerve traveling to the arms, hands or fingers. Numbness in hands may be accompanied by tingling, burning, weakness or sometimes sharp pain. If you experience hand numbness, consult with your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
In some cases, numbness in hands is associated with life-threatening diseases, such as a stroke. Get emergency medical help if your hand numbness:
• Begins suddenly
• Involves a whole arm
• Is accompanied by weakness or paralysis, confusion, difficulty talking, dizziness, or a sudden, severe headache