When to see a doctor

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Numbness can have a variety of causes. Most are harmless, but some can be life-threatening.

Call 911 or seek emergency help if your numbness:

  • Begins suddenly.
  • Follows a recent head injury.
  • Involves an entire arm or leg.

Also seek emergency medical care if your numbness is accompanied by:

  • Weakness or paralysis.
  • Confusion.
  • Trouble talking.
  • Feeling dizzy.
  • Sudden, bad headache.

You are likely to have a CT scan or MRI if:

  • You've had a head injury.
  • Your doctor suspects or needs to rule out a brain tumor or stroke.

Schedule an office visit if your numbness:

  • Begins or worsens gradually.
  • Affects both sides of the body.
  • Comes and goes.
  • Seems related to certain tasks or activities, particularly repetitive motions.
  • Affects only a part of a limb, such as your toes or fingers.

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May 04, 2023

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