3. Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common causes of hand numbness at night. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed. This narrow passageway can tighten due to inflammation, repetitive wrist movements, or fluid retention.
Symptoms of CTS typically include numbness, tingling, and sometimes pain in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. These symptoms often worsen at night because wrist positions during sleep can increase pressure on the median nerve.
People who perform repetitive tasks involving wrist flexion and extension, such as typing or assembly line work, are at higher risk. Other risk factors include diabetes, pregnancy, and arthritis.
Treatment options range from wrist splints that keep the wrist neutral during sleep to anti-inflammatory medications. In severe or persistent cases, doctors may recommend corticosteroid injections or carpal tunnel release surgery to relieve nerve pressure.
4. Medication side effects
Some medications can cause peripheral nerve symptoms, including numbness and tingling in the hands. This is often due to drug-induced neuropathy or side effects affecting nerve function.
Common drug classes linked to such side effects include certain chemotherapy agents, antiviral drugs, and medications used to treat high blood pressure or seizures. These drugs may alter nerve signaling or cause inflammation around nerves.
If you notice new or worsening hand numbness after starting a medication, it is important to discuss this with your prescribing doctor. They can evaluate whether the drug might be the cause and consider adjusting the dosage or switching to an alternative treatment.
Never stop or change prescribed medication without professional guidance, as this can lead to serious complications.
