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We become numb when there is short supply of blood to some parts, as mentioned here.

If that is the reason, why don't neurons and other cells die at that part if they don't receive oxygen and other things needed?

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A lower supply of blood does not mean no supply of blood, so my guess is there's generally enough to keep stuff alive for some time. But if the supply is restricted for long periods (think frostbite), then stuff starts to die.

Also, the sensory neuron endings in the skin are normally just one long projection from a cell body, the major components of the neuron are protected by being located in e.g. The Dorsal Root Ganglion.

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  • $\begingroup$ True, I was thinking more from a frostbite point of view, i.e. stuff will die eventually, but mostly surface tissue rather than neurons etc. $\endgroup$ – Oliver Houston Aug 14 '17 at 7:13
  • $\begingroup$ @mgkrebbs I'll remove my comment, as it's a bit misleading. I meant to refer to the article which says "reduced supply of blood to the limbs" implying that blood flow to the limbs is lost, which isn't true. $\endgroup$ – Bryan Krause♦ May 26 at 20:59
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Simply put, the cells and "other stuff" WOULD die if the blood flow and/or oxygen were too severe, and would be cut off for too long.

It would probably take some time though.

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  • $\begingroup$ The neurons stop working in lack of blood, why dont other cells stop? $\endgroup$ – Ram Keswani Oct 10 '17 at 13:17
  • $\begingroup$ For your response to be better received, please provide supporting information, which may include a quote or two from a reputable source, and/or links to those sources. As it stands, your response comes off as pure speculation, and is too nondescript. $\endgroup$ – user22020 Oct 10 '17 at 16:22
  • $\begingroup$ @Charles Is it speculation to say cells will die in the end if blood flow stops? Do I really have to provide sources for this? Now seriously.... as they say, "LOL".... You could as well ask me to prove to you an apple will fall downwards if it detaches itself from the tree. $\endgroup$ – Obiwan KeNoobie Oct 10 '17 at 16:57
  • $\begingroup$ @Ram Keswani, your question doesn't make sense to me. I don't understand what you are asking. Do you mean to say you believe cells go on living if no oxygen is provided anymore? $\endgroup$ – Obiwan KeNoobie Oct 10 '17 at 16:59
  • $\begingroup$ @Charles And besides why don't you ask the same thing of user Oliver Houston? He too seems to blindly assume cells don't survive without nourishment.... LOL $\endgroup$ – Obiwan KeNoobie Oct 10 '17 at 17:06

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