Treatment for arm numbness depends on the underlying cause.
Some causes, such as a vitamin B12 deficiency, can be treated with supplements and diet changes.
Rest and over-the-counter pain relief can be used for a minor injury.
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When to Call 911
Arm numbness can be a sign of a head injury or stroke.
See a healthcare provider right away if you experience a tingling sensation on one side of the body.
You may also be unable to move one or more limbs.
Possible injuries that affect these nerves include:
Arm numbness can sometimes follow surgeries for other conditions.
Medications
Quite a few medications can cause arm numbness and leg numbness as a side effect.
The most common sources of problems are avitamin B12 deficiencyand an excess of vitamin B6.
Alcohol dependence and other disorders that affect nutritional intake can also lead to nerve damage.
This sensation is related to the compression or irritation of nerves.
Sleep position can cause arm numbness, withproper spine alignmenthelpful in preventing arm numbness.
So can diabetic neuropathy in someone managing the condition for years.
Treatment
Treatment for arm numbness will depend on the underlying cause.
First-line neuropathy medications can include Neurontin (gabapentin) and antidepressants such as amitriptyline.
Treatment outcomes also will depend on the underlying cause of arm numbness.
Your healthcare provider can help you to know what to expect.
Summary
Arm numbness is a common symptom that can be because of various medical conditions.
Sometimes this symptom results from your arm falling asleep, and it could resolve after just a few minutes.
However, arm numbness can be due to a chronic and progressive key in of nerve damage.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing arm numbness and other symptoms.
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