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What Causes Numbness In Arms While Suffering From Stroke?
Question: Hello. I had a stroke five months ago. I am a 29 healthy male. They have not found a cause. This past week I experienced a new symptom of numbness in my affected side's arm, ring and pinky finger. I went to the ER and received a CAT and MRI. They determined that there was no new clot or additional damage and sent me home and explained it was just a new symptom. The numbness lasted 12 hours and went away. Today I experienced the same numbness, however on the other side. It has since gone away. I can't find any research about if this is a normal side effect or if I should be worried it is a warning of another stroke. Any advice would be welcomed, I'm extremely anxious about these symptoms. Thank you.
Brief Answer:
Since MRI is normal you shouldn't be anxious.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern after a traumatic experience such as stroke and the uncertainty of a cause not having been found.
It does happen at times to have some transitory numbness in the area involved by the stroke, it is generally benign, remember that for many months after a stroke your brain is trying to compensate by creating new connections. It is an active process at times associated with electrical discharges and transitory symptoms. At times it is possible to have what is called a focal seizure due to electrical discharges in the damaged area but that shouldn't be your case as they don't typically last 12 hours.
At times, considering your symptoms have switched sides, there are psychological factors involved as well, because as you might understand as well it would be unlikely to have two transitory strokes in two different regions in the course of one week.
You should feel reassured by the fact that the MRI is normal. That is the most sensitive exam which would have noticed any new lesions, so you should try to relax, continue your preventive medication and daily activity.
I remain at your disposal for further questions.
Since MRI is normal you shouldn't be anxious.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern after a traumatic experience such as stroke and the uncertainty of a cause not having been found.
It does happen at times to have some transitory numbness in the area involved by the stroke, it is generally benign, remember that for many months after a stroke your brain is trying to compensate by creating new connections. It is an active process at times associated with electrical discharges and transitory symptoms. At times it is possible to have what is called a focal seizure due to electrical discharges in the damaged area but that shouldn't be your case as they don't typically last 12 hours.
At times, considering your symptoms have switched sides, there are psychological factors involved as well, because as you might understand as well it would be unlikely to have two transitory strokes in two different regions in the course of one week.
You should feel reassured by the fact that the MRI is normal. That is the most sensitive exam which would have noticed any new lesions, so you should try to relax, continue your preventive medication and daily activity.
I remain at your disposal for further questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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