Blood flow problems can also produce unusual sensations.
When tissues don't receive adequate blood supply, you may experience:
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Numbness
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Tingling
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Coldness
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Pale or bluish skin
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Pain
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Weakness
Temporary compression of a blood vessel can happen if you've been sitting or lying in a particular position.
But persistent circulation problems are different.
If one hand suddenly becomes cold, pale, blue, severely painful, or unusually weak, particularly if symptoms develop suddenly, seek urgent medical attention.
Sudden changes in blood flow can sometimes require immediate treatment.
8. Repetitive Movements Can Irritate Nerves
Modern life involves a tremendous amount of repetitive hand and wrist activity.
You might spend hours:
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Typing
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Using a mouse
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Holding a phone
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Playing an instrument
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Sewing
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Working with tools
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Performing assembly tasks
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Gaming
Repetitive movements don't automatically cause nerve damage, but they can contribute to irritation and inflammation around certain nerves and tendons.
If your symptoms tend to appear after prolonged computer use or repetitive work, consider taking regular breaks.
Change your hand position.
Avoid keeping your wrists bent for long periods.
Adjust your workstation so your shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hands remain in comfortable positions.
If symptoms persist despite changing your habits, consider medical evaluation.
9. Certain Medications Can Contribute to Nerve Symptoms
Some medications can cause peripheral nerve problems as a side effect.
This is particularly relevant with certain treatments used for cancer and some other medical conditions.
Medication-related neuropathy may cause:
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Numbness
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Tingling
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Burning
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Weakness
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Changes in sensation
If your symptoms began after starting a new medication, don't stop the medication on your own.
Instead, tell the prescribing clinician.
They can determine whether the medication could be contributing and whether the treatment plan needs adjustment.
10. Alcohol Can Affect Nerve Health
Long-term heavy alcohol consumption can contribute to peripheral neuropathy.
Alcohol can affect nerves directly and may also contribute to nutritional deficiencies, particularly when heavy drinking is associated with poor nutrition.