What Causes Numbness From Left Side Of Neck To Forearm?

Posted on Mon, 30 Jun 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 30 Jun 2014 Answered on

Tue, 22 Jul 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Since last night I have been feeling numbness from the left side of my neck to my forearm. I'm currently on simvastatin for my cholesterol. I've been on it for 3 months. I was born with adrenal hyperplasia. My blood pressure is very low since I was also born with a salt deficiency. Am I having a stroke? My face is not uneven.

Answered by Dr. T Shobha Deepak (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
To rule out Ischemic heart disease

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to Healthcare-Magic
Greetings of the day

Dear Ms,

Its unlikely that stroke affects only one limb. It usually affects one side of body, it progressively worsens.
Presence of numbness in the left side of neck and forearm , I would consider the following two probabilities
1. Ischemic heart disease: Especially if its associated with numbness on physical activity or exertion.
2. Cervical spine affection: Cervical spondylosis may cause nerve root compression and produce such symptoms

I would suggest you to consult ER for further assessment at earliest.
Do keep me updated about progress.

Take Care

Best Regards
Dr T Shobha Deepak
MBBS,MD

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar