Differential Diagnosis for Numbness in the Right Arm
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cervical Radiculopathy: This condition, often resulting from a herniated disk or bone spur in the cervical spine, can compress or irritate nerves, leading to numbness, pain, or weakness in the arm. The symptoms can vary depending on which nerve root is affected, making it a common cause of arm numbness.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition involves compression, injury, or irritation of the nerves and/or blood vessels (arteries and veins) in the thoracic outlet area, which lies between your collarbone (clavicle) and first rib. It can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the arm.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Although more commonly associated with the hand, carpal tunnel syndrome can sometimes cause numbness that radiates up the arm, especially if the median nerve is compressed at other points along its path.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: This is a result of damage to your peripheral nerves, often causing weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in your hands and feet, but it can also affect the arms.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although less common, numbness in one arm can be a symptom of a stroke or TIA. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage or death.
- Multiple Sclerosis: An autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, leading to a wide range of potential neurological symptoms, including numbness. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact the disease's progression.
- Spinal Cord Injury or Compression: Any injury or condition that compresses or damages the spinal cord can lead to numbness, among other symptoms. Prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent further damage.
- Rare diagnoses
- Vitamin Deficiency (e.g., Vitamin B12 deficiency): Certain vitamin deficiencies can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness in the extremities.
- Lyme Disease: A bacterial infection spread by ticks, which can cause neurological problems, including numbness, if it reaches the later stages.
- Syringomyelia: A disorder in which a fluid-filled cavity or syrinx forms within the spinal cord, leading to numbness and other neurological symptoms.