when should i be worried about numbness in my right arm?

Persistent numbness in your right arm, particularly when accompanied by a lack of control or sensation, is definitely something you should monitor closely. A concerning aspect is that this numbness has persisted for almost a week and is associated with specific actions or positions, like lying down, which might suggest some nerve involvement. While factors like sleeping position or recent physical activity such as lifting weights could contribute to temporary numbness or nerve compression, it’s crucial not to overlook the potential of more significant underlying issues. Nerve compression at points such as the cervical spine (neck), a pinched nerve somewhere along the arm, or carpal tunnel syndrome are common causes of unilateral (one-sided) numbness. However, if you start experiencing symptoms such as sudden weakness, severe headache, confusion, dizziness, difficulty speaking, or facial drooping, a stroke could be a concern, and you should seek emergency medical care immediately.

In your situation, monitoring the symptoms in relation to daily activities is important. You mentioned that the numbness is more frequent at night, which could suggest positional compression or strain. Nonetheless, arrange for a medical consultation to evaluate the issue comprehensively. Describe all your symptoms to your doctor, highlighting the duration, frequency, onset circumstances, and any alleviating or aggravating factors. The doctor may recommend physical examination and possibly imaging studies like an X-ray or MRI to assess the nerves and spine health. In the meantime, you could experiment with varying positions at night or using ergonomic adjustments during activities and observe any changes in symptoms. Stressing less about it can be helpful, but proactive medical advice should be sought to rule out any serious concerns and determine a treatment or management plan tailored to your needs.