Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 12/10/2007

Question
Hello, thankyou for considering my question. I am a 40 year old healthy female who had a colonoscopy in day surgery 3 days ago. Since then I have been experiencing a tingling/slightly numb sensation in my fingers and hands, which sometimes radiates up my forearms. My surgeon doesn't seem to think it is related to the surgery but I have read that anaesthetics affect the central nervous system and wonder if my system is particularly sensitive? If so, when should I expect this to subside? I would be most appreciative of your advice. Thankyou. Maree

Answer
Hi Maree
I very much doubt that the symptoms you describe are due to the drugs used during your colonoscopy. Tingling and numbness in your hands are more likley due to pressure effects on nerves somewhere. Sometimes if it is in your hands it is due to something called 'carpal tunnel syndrome'. This tends to be worse at night and can wake you up with discomfort in your hands.
However there are many causes of tingling and I am only providing a possible example. If it doesn't settle over the next few days go and see your GP.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson