What causes numbness in the arm after a blood draw?
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I had blood drawn five weeks ago and since then felt numbness and tingling in my right arm and right leg. Although numbness and tingling have gotten better, I still feel slight numbness in right pinky and third finger. I also feel burning/pinching in the crease of my arm where she drew blood/next to elbow. Also, when I am sitting at the computer, the tingling starts again in my entire right arm but mainly forearm. Is this permanent nerve damage? I am doing Bikram yoga but still feel these symptoms. Do I need to get an electrocardiogram (EKG) done?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com. Regarding your concern, I would explain that your symptoms could be related to a pinched nerve, possibly related to the venous puncture. I do not think that the numbness in the leg is related to the procedure. It could be just a little anxiety. Anyway, if the numbness in your arm and fingers persists, I recommend performing nerve conduction study to examine your nerves. Some blood lab tests are necessary too (complete blood count, vitamin B12 plasma levels for possible deficiency, and blood electrolytes for possible imbalances).
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor,
But, is the nerve conduction study necessary to determine if this is permanent?
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com. Yes, nerve conduction studies can determine exactly the degree of nerve damage, the location and if it is reversible or not. I recommend consulting with a neurologist and discussing these issues. In the meantime, I recommend performing light physical activity in order to improve your nerve and muscle function.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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