Numbness and tingling

Alternative names:

lack of sensation; loss of sensation; paresthesias; sensory loss; tingling

Definition:

Paresthesias are abnormal sensations, often described as numbness, prickling, or tingling, usually felt along the extremities.

Considerations:

Tingling is an indication of damage or irritation to the nerves in that area. Unlike numbness, tingling suggests the nerve is not completely dead or severed, just injured or experiencing pressure.

Except in cases where the cause is obvious (for example, when a hand or foot "falls asleep" because of the position it is in), numbness and tingling should be discussed with your health care provider.

Common causes:

• local injury to the nerves under the skin
• lack of blood supply to the area
• pressure on the nerves, caused by a herniated disk, tumors, abscesses or arthritic bones
• toxic action on nerves (lead, alcohol, tobacco)
• diabetes and other chemical abnormalities
• vitamin B-12 deficiency
• hypothyroidism
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• drugs such as chemotherapeutic agents, chloroquine, D-penicillamine, isoniazid, nitrofurantoin, parenteral gold therapy and phenytoin
• long-term radiation
• transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• stroke
• multiple sclerosis (a less common cause of numbness)

Note: There may be other causes of numbness and tingling. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for numbness and tingling, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.