Nowadays people have created their own definition of being healthy. This is leading them to a bumpy road which is full of health issues and struggles. The one problem which is often taken for granted by many people until it starts creating massive issues is left arm numbness. The numbness or the tingling sensation in your arm can be worrisome. It can be an unsettling experience which should be taken as an alarming sign. No wonder there are many serious health problems but it is essential to take left arm numbness into that category. 

The reason, potential symptoms, and underlying conditions could be anything. This is why it is essential to gather the complete information about left arm numbness causes, symptoms, treatment, and much more. 

What are the potential left arm numbness causes? 

The numbness in your left arm can be a big concern. However, there can be various potential left arm numbness causes of it, such as: 

• Pinched nerve 

The numbness can appear because of the pinching of the nerves that go through the arm, shoulder, along the neck region. However, this can appear because of repetitive motions, cervical spine or bulging discs, and bone spurs. 

• Cervical radiculopathy 

This issue occurs in the neck region because of a compressed or irritated nerve root. Further, it leads to left arm numbness and causes degenerative changes. 

• Thoracic outlet syndrome 

This condition happens when vessels of nerve and blood passing via the space gets compressed. They are between the first rib and collarbone. It leads to numbness along with the tingling sensation. 

• Stroke or TIA 

One of the other causes of experiencing left arm numbness can be a stroke or TIA. The entire situation occurs due to obstruction in the blood flow to the brain. 

• Multiple sclerosis 

It is an autoimmune disorder which targets the central nervous system. Multiple sclerosis can lead to numbness, weakness in the body parts, along with the tingling sensations. 

• Injury/ trauma 

Facing left arm numbness can also be because of direct injury/trauma to any body part like shoulder, arm, neck area, etc. 

• Peripheral neuropathy 

This can lead to damaged peripheral nerves which can further lead to numbness, arm and leg weakness, along with the tingling sensation. The cause behind this can be diabetes, deficiency of vitamins, autoimmune disorders, or ill-effects of other medications.

What are the left arm numbness symptoms? 

The primary symptom of facing the numbness in the left arm is a tingling, pins or needles, as well as prickling. This sensation can also bring in other symptoms due to underlying causes, like: 

• Weakness or hard to move the arm or hand. 
• Pain in the arm, shoulder, as well as neck. 
• Coldness or affected arm facing discoloration. 
• Left arm numbness symptoms can appear due to muscle spasms or in some case cramps.

How to get through the numbness in the left arm? 

There are a few diagnostic tests which can be performed to determine the cause of left arm numbness. The tests are mentioned below: 

• Physical evaluation
• Neurological tests 
• Electrocardiogram 
• Blood tests 

The possible left arm numbness treatments 

The left arm numbness treatment depends on the underlying reasons along with the seriousness of the condition. Thus, here are some possible treatments:

• Medication 

According to the cause, the doctor may prescribe which can help manage the symptoms and even address the underlying issues. For instance, vitamin supplements for some deficiencies, anti-inflammatory medicines for injury, etc. 

• Lifestyle changes 

Simple lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in your overall situation. This can involve adjusting your body posture, taking breaks while doing repetitive activities, and losing weight.

• Surgery 

In severe medical cases, the doctors can suggest a surgery to understand the root cause of the numbness in the left arm. This can involve decompression surgery, bone spurs removal, or carpal tunnel release surgery. 

• Injections 

For issues like cervical radiculopathy, the doctor can suggest corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and ease the pressure on the nerves that are affected. 

• Physical therapy 

If you are facing numbness in your left arm due to nerve compression then opting for physical therapy can offer some relief. Certain exercises and stretches can lead to better flexibility, motion, strength, and much more. 

When to get in touch with a doctor? 

It is essential to understand that left arm numbness cannot always be the main reason behind the immediate issue. Thus, contacting a medical professional becomes mandatory. Here are some points defining the right time to contact a doctor: 

• If the numbness is experienced along with severe pain, body part weakness, or uneasiness to move your arm. 
• If your face numbness while doing your daily activities or hampers with your daily activities. 
• If the numbness is experienced for a longer period and gets worsen with time. 
• If you face sudden numbness or face alarming symptoms like breath shortness, facial drooping, etc. 

Conclusion 

It can be concerning to experience left arm numbness for a persistent time with various causes, minor issues, uneasiness, etc. This is why it is essential to pay attention to every symptom, get to the root cause of it, and get the right treatment by contacting the doctor at the right time. Also, the early diagnosis and quick treatment can benefit in alleviating the numbness and avoid any other future complications.