numbness screening test preparation

Overview

Numbness is a loss of feeling or sensation in a part of your body, like your hand, foot, or face. A numbness screening test is a set of checks your doctor uses to find out what might be causing that numbness. It often involves a physical exam, simple nerve tests, and sometimes blood work or imaging.

Yes, numbness is a very common symptom. Many people experience it at some point, often in their hands, feet, or face.

It can affect people of any age, but it becomes more common as we get older. It is also more likely in people with conditions like diabetes, thyroid problems, or those who have had injuries.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Tingling or 'pins and needles' feeling
• Burning or prickling sensation
• Loss of feeling in a hand, foot, arm, or leg
• Weakness in the numb area
• Sensation of wearing a tight glove or sock

Symptoms in children

• Children may not describe numbness well; they might say their limb 'feels funny' or 'is asleep'.
• They may have trouble gripping objects or walking steadily.
• Sometimes numbness is a sign of a vitamin B12 deficiency or a pinched nerve.

Symptoms in older adults

• Numbness in older adults often affects the feet and legs, sometimes due to poor circulation or nerve changes.
• It can increase the risk of falls because they may not feel the ground properly.
• Older adults may also have numbness from conditions like diabetes or arthritis.

Causes

Main causes

• Pressure on a nerve (like carpal tunnel syndrome or a slipped disc)
• Diabetes (diabetic neuropathy)
• Vitamin deficiencies (especially B12, B1, or E)
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Multiple sclerosis
• Side effects of some medications

Risk factors

• Having diabetes or prediabetes
• Being overweight or obese
• Having had a previous injury to a nerve or spine
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Having a family history of nerve disorders
• Poor diet lacking in certain vitamins

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Sudden numbness on one side of the body
• Numbness after a head or spine injury
• Numbness with weakness, trouble speaking, or vision changes

Book a routine appointment if:

• Numbness that lasts more than a few days or keeps coming back
• Numbness that is getting worse or spreading
• Numbness that affects your daily life, like trouble with buttons or walking

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by asking about your medical history and doing a physical exam, including checking your reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation. Based on this, they may recommend screening tests to find the cause.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests (to check for diabetes, vitamin levels, thyroid function)
• Nerve conduction studies (electrical tests to see how well your nerves work)
• Electromyography (EMG) (to check muscle response)
• MRI or CT scans (to look at your spine or brain)
• Nerve biopsy (removing a tiny piece of nerve for analysis, rarely needed)

What to expect at your appointment

For most screening tests, you don't need special preparation. Your doctor will tell you if you should stop taking certain medicines or avoid eating before blood tests. For nerve tests, you may need to avoid lotions or creams on your skin. The tests are usually done in a clinic or hospital and are not painful, though you may feel some mild discomfort.

Treatment

Treatment for numbness focuses on the underlying cause. Once your doctor finds what is causing the numbness, they will recommend a plan. This may include lifestyle changes, medicines to help nerves or treat the root condition, or therapies to improve movement.

Self-care at home

• Warm compresses or gentle massage to improve circulation
• Physical therapy or exercises to strengthen muscles and improve nerve function
• Taking breaks from repetitive tasks to relieve nerve pressure
• Keeping blood sugar stable if you have diabetes
• Eating a balanced diet rich in B vitamins

Medical treatments

Depending on the cause, your doctor may suggest medicines to control pain or discomfort from nerve issues. They may also recommend treating underlying conditions like diabetes, thyroid problems, or vitamin deficiencies with appropriate therapies. Physical or occupational therapy can help you adapt to numbness and prevent falls.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is sometimes an option if numbness is caused by a pinched nerve that does not improve with other treatments. For example, a herniated disc pressing on a nerve may need surgery. Your doctor will discuss if this is right for you.

Living with this condition

Living with numbness means making small adjustments to stay safe and comfortable. Check your feet daily for injuries if you have numbness in your legs. Use tools with padded handles if your hands are affected. Be careful when handling hot objects to avoid burns.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip to prevent falls
• Use a cane or walker if needed for balance
• Avoid alcohol as it can worsen nerve damage
• Stay active with low-impact exercises like walking or swimming
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can support nerve health. Include vitamin B12 from foods like fish, eggs, or fortified cereals, and vitamin E from nuts and seeds. Gentle exercise like stretching, yoga, or tai chi can improve circulation and flexibility.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Numbness can be frustrating and sometimes frightening. It may affect your mood or confidence. It's normal to feel anxious or worried. Talking to a counsellor or joining a support group can help you cope.

Prevention

It is not always possible to prevent numbness, but you can reduce your risk by managing health conditions like diabetes, eating a balanced diet, avoiding excessive alcohol, and protecting your nerves from injury. Good posture and ergonomic workstations can also help.

Vaccines

Omit

Screening programmes

If you have risk factors for nerve problems (like diabetes), regular check-ups can help catch issues early. Tell your doctor about any new numbness so they can screen for causes.

Complications

If left untreated

• Long-term nerve damage may become permanent
• Loss of feeling can lead to injuries, burns, or falls without you noticing
• Muscle weakness or wasting from lack of use
• Chronic pain or discomfort

Long-term outlook

For many people, the outlook is very good. When the cause is found early and treated, numbness often improves or goes away. Even when it doesn't fully resolve, there are many ways to manage it and maintain a good quality of life. Your doctor will work with you to find the best plan.

Find support

Local organisations

• Your local hospital or neurology department · Ask your doctor for details
• Patient support groups (ask your doctor or search online) · Check with your local health service

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