Numbness and tingling Information on Healthline

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Definition

Numbness and tingling are abnormal sensations that can occur anywhere in your body, but are often felt in your hands, feet, arms, or legs.

Alternative Names

Sensory loss; Paresthesias; Tingling and numbness; Loss of sensation

Common Causes

There are many possible causes:

Remaining in the same seated or standing position for a long time
Injury to a nerve -- for example, a neck injury may cause you to feel numbness anywhere along your arm or hand, while a low back injury can cause numbness or tingling down the back of your leg
Pressure on the spinal nerves such as that due to a herniated disk
Lack of blood supply to an area -- for example, plaque buildup from atherosclerosis in the legs can cause pain, numbness, and tingling while walking (this is called vascular claudication)
Other medical conditions, including:
Abnormal levels of calcium, potassium, or sodium in your body
A lack of vitamin B12 or other vitamin
Certain medications
Toxic action on nerves, such as that from lead, alcohol, or tobacco
Radiation therapy

Home Care

The underlying cause of numbness or tingling should be identified and then treated by your doctor. Treatment of the underlying condition may reverse the symptoms or prevent them from becoming worse. For example, if you have carpal tunnel syndrome or low back pain, certain exercises may be recommended.

If you have diabetes, your doctor will discuss ways to control your blood sugars.

Medications that cause numbness or tingling may need to be switched or adjusted. DO NOT make any changes to your medications without instructions from your doctor.

Low levels of vitamins will be treated with vitamin supplements.

Because of the decrease in feeling, a numb hand or foot from any cause may be more prone to accidental injury. Take care to protect the area from cuts, bumps, bruises, burns, or other injury.

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Reviewer Info: Joseph V. Campellone, M.D., Division of Neurology, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 05/22/2007

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Numbness and tingling Health Article

Definition

Alternative Names

Common Causes

Home Care