Tingling

Tingling Tingling is a sensation often described as a feeling of pins and needles, prickling, or a slight burning on the skin. This sensation can occur in various parts of the body, including the hands, feet, arms, and legs. Tingling is medically referred to as paresthesia.

Causes

Tingling can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Nerve compression: Prolonged pressure on a nerve can lead to tingling. This is often experienced when sitting or standing in one position for too long.
• Peripheral neuropathy: Damage to the peripheral nerves, often due to conditions like diabetes, can cause tingling.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist can lead to tingling in the fingers and hand.
• Vitamin deficiencies: Lack of certain vitamins, such as Vitamin B12, can result in tingling sensations.
• Multiple sclerosis: This autoimmune disease can cause tingling as one of its symptoms.
• Stroke: A stroke can lead to tingling, particularly if it affects the sensory pathways in the brain.
• Infections: Certain infections, such as shingles, can cause tingling.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the cause of tingling involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Tests that may be conducted include:

• Blood tests: To check for vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, and other conditions.
• Nerve conduction study: To assess the function of the peripheral nerves.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): To look for structural abnormalities in the brain or spinal cord.
• Electromyography (EMG): To evaluate the electrical activity of muscles.

Treatment

Treatment for tingling depends on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

• Addressing vitamin deficiencies through diet or supplements.
• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes with medication and lifestyle changes.
• Physical therapy for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Medications to manage pain and inflammation.
• Surgery in severe cases of nerve compression.

Prevention

Preventing tingling involves managing risk factors and underlying conditions. Some preventive measures include:

• Maintaining a healthy diet to avoid vitamin deficiencies.
• Regular exercise to improve circulation and nerve health.
• Ergonomic adjustments to reduce nerve compression at work or during activities.
• Regular medical check-ups to manage chronic conditions.

See also

• Numbness
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Multiple sclerosis
• Stroke

Resources

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Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Tingling for any updates.

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