Symptoms of Numbness in the Fingertips

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By Jessica Lietz
eHow Contributing Writer

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Numb fingertips can be worrisome and distracting.

Numbness in the fingertips may be a temporary or long-lasting condition that affects the ability to move the fingers and hands. The condition could be a symptom of an underlying medical disorder, and symptoms that persist or worsen should be evaluated by a doctor.

Types

Numbness might occur in one or all of the fingers on either or both hands, and may feel like a tingling, cold, or burning sensation or a feeling of weakness (Mayo Clinic).

Causes

Symptoms of numbness in the fingertips might be caused by hand injuries; carpal tunnel syndrome; neurological disorders; circulatory disorders; diabetes; stroke; medication side effects; infections; or vitamin deficiencies (Mayo Clinic).

Effects

People with numb fingertips may have difficulty with normal daily activities such as typing, using a phone, or grasping items, and may experience self-consciousness and embarrassment.

Considerations

Numbness in the fingertips that develops suddenly, is accompanied by dizziness, pain or spasms, or spreads to the entire arm requires urgent medical care (Mayo Clinic and National Library of Medicine).

Treatments

Fingertip numbness caused by diabetes or vitamin deficiencies can be treated with dietary and lifestyle modifications; other causes might require treatments such as physical therapy, medications or surgery (National Library of Medicine).

Prevention/Solution

Using ergonomic aids such as specialized keyboards and computer mouses; maintaining a healthy and balanced diet; and seeking medical care after an injury or neurological problem may prevent numbness in the fingertips.