Weakness in the strength and muscles of the arms is a symptom that can go unnoticed for a long time. This is why it is most easily discovered by other people with whom we shake hands. We also have to worry about problems with basic activities – opening cans, using cutlery accurately, etc. It is worth knowing that strength in the hands weakens with age, especially after 60 years.

However, sudden weakness or appearance in young people can portend spinal diseases, hormonal imbalances, and even diabetes or cancer. Check out what a loose handshake might indicate.

Weakened handshake and spinal degeneration

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Weakened handshake and spinal degeneration

The most common cause of a weakened handshake is spinal degeneration, particularly cervical discography. It involves degeneration of the intervertebral disc and most often affects young people who spend a lot of time in front of a computer or tablet. A characteristic symptom of the disease is numbness in the upper limbs and weakness in the arms. Other symptoms include headache and dizziness, as well as stiffness and discomfort in the neck and shoulders.

Weak handshake and carpal tunnel syndrome

The weakening of the handshake is very often caused by carpal tunnel syndrome – it is already called a disease of civilization that affects people working at a computer. The reason is prolonged compression of the nerve in the carpal tunnel. The disease can also accompany diabetes, rheumatic ailments or thyroid problems.

Weak handshake and diabetes

Weakening the handshake is also a common and earliest symptom of type 2 diabetes, scientists warn. It can be caused by damage to blood vessels caused by excessively high blood sugar levels. Ultimately, this weakens the nerves and muscles, especially the arms. Other symptoms of diabetes include lethargy, drowsiness, increased thirst and increased urination, uncontrolled sugar cravings, and skin problems (dryness, difficult wound healing).

Weak handshake and cardiovascular disease

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Weak handshake and cardiovascular disease

Loose handshake can also be the first sign of circulatory problems. According to British scientists, there is a close relationship between coronary heart disease, insufficient blood supply and oxygenation to the body, and muscle strength in the arms and hands. Over time, other symptoms may develop, such as shortness of breath with physical activity or chest pain and pressure. It is worth knowing that sudden paresis of the hand (especially, on the one hand) can also be a sign of a stroke.

Weak handshake and cancer

It turns out that people with cancer (such as colon, lung, breast, or prostate cancer) lose strength in their arms. This is especially true for people over 60 years old, but, according to researchers, the reason is not in old age, but in a disease that destroys the entire body. Therefore, it is best to see a doctor if you feel a sudden and significant weakening of the handshake.

Weak handshake and other medical conditions

Weakness of the hand muscles is also the first symptom of many neurological conditions, such as muscle and peripheral nerve disorders and myasthenia gravis (impaired transmission of nerve impulses to muscle). A weaker handshake can also be caused by nerve inflammation. Most often it occurs as a result of poisoning with toxins (such as heavy metals), alcoholism, or untreated Lyme disease