Have you ever woken up to find that one of your hands is “asleep”?

Though you might often attribute this to temporary nerve compression, more serious health issues may be the cause.

This article explores how to recognize these symptoms, get a proper diagnosis, and explore potential treatment options.

Woman with pain in wrist

Mehmet Hilmi Barcin / Getty Images

Understanding the causes of numb hands upon waking can help identify potential issues and help you choose a treatment.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndromeis when a nerve in the wrist becomes compressed or squeezed.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy refers to nerve damage or dysfunction.

Adjusting sleeping positions or using supportive devices can help alleviate this issue.

When Could Waking Up With Hand Numbness Be Serious?

Treatment Options for Numb Hands

Treatment options for numb hands depend on the underlying cause.

Splints are often worn at night for conditions such as carpal tunnel.

Sleep Foundation.Numbness in hands while sleeping: causes and remedies.

Arthritis Foundation.Raynaud’s disease.

Harvard Health Publishing.Best ways to cope with hand pain.

Kaiser Permanente.Carpal tunnel syndrome: exercises.

The Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy.Neurological evaluations.