Numbness
What it is
Numbness is when a part of the body, such as an arm or a leg, loses some feeling. It may tingle or become harder to move.
What you can do at home
What to do
- Try and move the numb body part.
- Change position.
- Take breaks and stretch often when making the same movements repeatedly.
What to avoid
- Be careful not to injure the numb body part (it may be difficult to feel pain).
When to seek medical attention
Numbness that starts gradually and gets worse
Recent surgery or trauma
Tingling or severe pain in the hand or arm at night
Pregnant people: always seek medical attention if numbness occurs.
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Rapid change in overall condition:
- unusual tiredness (drowsiness) or difficulty staying awake
- less responsive to what is happening around them
- confusion, agitation, or unusual behaviour
- reduced appetite and thirst
- difficulty carrying out usual daily tasks
Severe headache that comes suddenly
Very severe chest pain
Sudden loss of strength or numbness in the face, an arm, or a leg (even if it goes away)
Difficulty speaking or understanding words
Perte d’équilibre qui apparaît tout d’un coup avec de la faiblesse, un mal de tête ou de la difficulté à parler ou à voir
Sudden loss of balance along with weakness, a headache, difficulty speaking, or difficulty seeing
Fingers or toes turning blue
A painful body part that becomes swollen or warm
Being unable to hold urine (pee)