When to see a doctor

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
• Difficulty talking
• Dizziness
• Sudden, severe 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