Arm numbness during a sneeze can be unsettling, but it’s a common experience. This article explores the reasons why your arms might experience temporary numbness during this reflex.
The Physical Act of Sneezing
Sneezing is a rapid, involuntary reflex that clears irritants from the nasal passages. It begins when nerve endings in the nasal lining detect an irritant, sending signals to the brainstem. The brain then coordinates rapid muscle contractions throughout the body.
These contractions involve the diaphragm, abdominal muscles, and intercostal muscles. This forceful exertion builds significant pressure within the respiratory system, expelled through the nose and mouth. The peak pressure can range from 2,185 to 5,685 Pascals (Pa). This powerful expulsion can lead to temporary shifts in posture and pressure, particularly affecting the neck and upper back.
Understanding the Causes of Numbness
Arm numbness during a sneeze often stems from the intense physical forces involved. While often benign, several factors can contribute.
One common reason is temporary nerve compression. The sudden, forceful contraction of muscles in the chest and abdomen during a sneeze can momentarily compress nerves in the neck or shoulder. This can lead to transient numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation. Muscle spasms or sudden head and neck movements can also contribute to this temporary compression. The nerves supplying the arms originate from the cervical spine, or neck, and travel down through the shoulders and arms, making them susceptible to such compression.
Underlying spinal issues can also be exacerbated by sneezing. Conditions like a cervical herniated disc or cervical spondylosis can cause arm numbness. A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear, potentially pressing on nearby nerves. Sneezing can intensify pain and numbness associated with a herniated disc, especially if it’s in the neck.
Cervical spondylosis, involving degenerative changes in the spine, can also lead to nerve compression. The increased intra-abdominal pressure during a sneeze, combined with spinal flexion or extension, can put additional pressure on nerves exiting the spine, a condition known as radiculopathy. This can result in sharp pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling that radiates from the neck down the arm.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is another possibility. This condition occurs when nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and the first rib become compressed. The forceful movement and increased pressure in the thoracic outlet region during a sneeze can temporarily worsen this compression, leading to numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands. Muscle strain in the upper body from sudden, intense muscle contractions can also lead to arm discomfort or pain. If existing muscle strains are present, a sneeze can aggravate the injury.
When Professional Medical Advice is Needed
While arm numbness during a sneeze is often temporary and harmless, certain signs indicate professional medical evaluation is appropriate. Seek medical attention if the numbness is persistent, meaning it does not resolve quickly after the sneeze. Numbness accompanied by weakness in the arm or hand is a concerning symptom.
Other red flags include pain, tingling, or numbness that radiates from the neck or upper back and does not subside. If numbness affects other body parts beyond the arm, or occurs frequently, a doctor’s visit is warranted. Sudden or unexplained numbness, especially if it occurs on one side of the body, or is accompanied by difficulty speaking or severe headache, could indicate a more serious condition and requires immediate medical attention. Consulting a healthcare professional can help rule out underlying conditions and provide an accurate diagnosis.
Tips for Managing Symptoms
Adopting certain practices can help manage or prevent arm numbness when sneezing. Maintaining good posture, especially in the neck and upper back, can reduce strain on the spine and surrounding nerves. Keeping shoulders back and avoiding slouching helps ensure proper spinal alignment.
Gentle stretching exercises for the neck and shoulders can help relieve tension and improve flexibility. Examples include neck bends, head turns, and shoulder rolls. These movements can help release pressure on nerves and improve overall mobility.
Being mindful of body mechanics when sneezing is also helpful. Instead of hunching forward, try to sneeze with a straight back or lean slightly backward and upward. Bracing your back with a hand or pulling in abdominal muscles before a sneeze can provide support and reduce spinal pressure. These general tips are not a substitute for professional medical advice if symptoms are concerning.