Identify Numbness: Signs It’s Time to See a Neurologist

Have you ever experienced loss of sensation, tingling, or burning in any part of your body? If you have, you’re not alone.

Numbness is common. It often occurs due to actions, such as sitting cross-legged, that affect the nerves. According to the National Library of Medicine, over 20% of all people experience numbness and pain, and this percentage increases with age.

Most cases are not serious, and the feeling quickly dissipates with movement. However, prolonged or chronic numbness can occur and is usually a symptom of a more serious issue related to a neurological condition. Knowing if it is or not will require the diagnosis of a neurologist.

When should you call one? There are key signs that will indicate you need a neurologist. This article reviews some of the major ones.

Understanding Numbness

Numbness is a partial or complete loss of sensation in any part of the body. It occurs when persistent pressure, irritation, or damage to a particular nerve or several affects the flow of blood or nerve impulses. It is also referred to as paresthesia, a condition patients often describe as:

 

Often, these symptoms are temporary and resolve after moving the affected body part. However, persistent or chronic numbness lasts longer or does not go away. It usually indicates that the numbness is a symptom of a more serious condition.

Causes of Numbness

There are many reasons people experience numbness. The causes will vary depending on whether the numbness is temporary or chronic. Some of the main causes of temporary numbness include:

 

Moderate or severe nerve compression syndromes can become persistent, leading to chronic numbness. Issues related to the following can also cause persistent or chronic numbness:

 

Toxins and poisons can also affect the nervous system causing numbness. Some toxic sources include arsenic and carbon monoxide poisoning and venomous stings or bites from animals.

Key Signs Indicating the Need for a Neurologist

The inability to feel pain, light touches, temperature changes, or vibrations are common signs of numbness. But could they possibly be the onset of something more severe?

Knowing when to visit a neurologist is crucial to addressing this. Here are key signs that it’s time for specialized medical advice and care.

Sudden Onset of Numbness

Sudden numbness, especially on one side of the body could be a sign of a serious condition, possibly a stroke. If symptoms also include weakness or difficulty speaking immediate medical attention is necessary. According to the Merck Manual, sudden or rapid onset of numbness within minutes, hours, or days accompanied by weakness are of particular concern.

Accompanying Weakness or Paralysis

Why is numbness accompanied by weakness a red flag? Because these symptoms, along with paralysis, could indicate a serious condition such as:

 

These neurological conditions require urgent care. According to the American Stroke Association, every minute that a stroke goes untreated, approximately 1.9 million brain cells die. Early treatment can increase survival rates and decrease disability rates.

Persistent or Worsening Numbness

Persistent or worsening numbness could lead to coordination or balance issues. It could affect your ability to walk and drive. You may also experience tingling, weakness, and paralysis.

Numbness can not only affect your quality of life, but could be a sign of neuropathy, herniated discs, or another condition.

An experienced neurologist can help determine the underlying cause and monitor symptom changes.

Other Neurological Symptoms

Symptoms may not only change, but they can increase as well. Patients may experience other symptoms, depending on the cause of the numbness. A few common ones include:

 

Although some of these can be debilitating, they can help pinpoint the underlying issue. They may signal a more serious neurological disorder.

What to Expect During a Neurological Evaluation

When you visit a neurologist, provide details of your symptoms. It’s important in determining an accurate diagnosis. They will also conduct a thorough examination including physical exams and diagnostics tests.

Initial Assessment

The neurologist will need a detailed medical history in addition to your list of symptoms. It will be a part of your initial assessment that will include a neurological exam to assess your:

 

The initial assessment helps the neurologist determine the diagnostic tests you will need.

Diagnostic Tests

Diagnostic tests help to diagnose the cause of numbness. Some of the more common ones you can expect your neurologist to perform  include:

 

The MRI and CT scans provide images of the brain and spinal cord and can show abnormalities, if any. The EMG measures electrical activity or muscle response. It can help determine if muscles are responding correctly to nerve signals.

Nerve conduction tests evaluate how well electrical signals move through the nerves. They help identify nerve damage.

Treating Numbness

Treatment will vary depending on the cause of your numbness. It is usually aimed at correcting the condition causing it. Your neurologist will provide nerve health tips to help avoid recurrence.

Chronic numbness solutions may also include:

 

For some patients, treatment may include surgery if they have a tumor or spinal problems.

Safeguard Your Health: Know When to Call a Neurologist 

Numbness, although a common occurrence for many, can also be a potential warning sign. Additional symptoms could signal a more serious condition. If you experience persistent numbness along with other symptoms you should consult a healthcare professional. 

Neurocare of Nevada can help diagnose conditions associated with numbness. We offer neurodiagnostic procedures and well-researched therapies to treat neurological disorders. Our patients can attest to our superb service, professionalism, and extensive experience.

Schedule an appointment to start your personalized neurological care.