Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Right-sided Intermittent Numbness In The Hand And Lips?
Question: I'm male, 68, generally good health, active/exercise frequently. For a couple of months I've experienced intermittent numbness in my right hand (thumb, index, middle, fleshy palm). I also feel numbness in my right lower lip at the same time or a minute or two later. Symptoms last 5-10 minutes, then disappear. I initially thought it was nerve compression in my ageing spine, but the symptoms occur no matter whether I'm exercising, sitting, walking. Usually occurs about twice or three times a day.
Brief Answer:
Rule out transient ischemic attacks
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Since you are experiencing the numbness in right arm and face, central nervous system issue rather than a peripheral nerve problem. Periodic and intermittent neurological symptoms are concerning for Transient Ischemic attack (TIA). TIA occurs due to an intermittent reduction in blood flow to the brain due to atherosclerotic changes. You are increased risk of you have diabetes, high cholesterol or hypertension.
Carotid artery Doppler analysis, which is a simple non-invasive investigation along with imaging study of the brain like CT can confirm or rule out the diagnosis.
Please be advised to follow up with your primary care provider for necessary evaluation.
If diagnosed treatment is with aspirin and stringent control of blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol levels. Further treatment if needed will depend on the patency of the carotid artery.
Hope this answers your question.
Regards,
Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal, General & Family Physician
Rule out transient ischemic attacks
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Since you are experiencing the numbness in right arm and face, central nervous system issue rather than a peripheral nerve problem. Periodic and intermittent neurological symptoms are concerning for Transient Ischemic attack (TIA). TIA occurs due to an intermittent reduction in blood flow to the brain due to atherosclerotic changes. You are increased risk of you have diabetes, high cholesterol or hypertension.
Carotid artery Doppler analysis, which is a simple non-invasive investigation along with imaging study of the brain like CT can confirm or rule out the diagnosis.
Please be advised to follow up with your primary care provider for necessary evaluation.
If diagnosed treatment is with aspirin and stringent control of blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol levels. Further treatment if needed will depend on the patency of the carotid artery.
Hope this answers your question.
Regards,
Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal, General & Family Physician
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Nagamani Ng
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
