Most people feel tingling in their feet or hands occasionally. Tingling in the feet or hands may feel unpleasant, but the cause is not usually serious. However, If the feet or hands tingle often, this may be the result of an underlying condition. Show
There are many reasons why someone may experience tingling in their feet and hands, most of which are temporary. If a person sits or sleeps in an unusual position, it may put pressure on a nerve and cause a tingling sensation in the feet or hands. People often refer to this as “pins and needles.” Some causes of tingling in feet or hands are more serious and may require proper diagnosis and treatment. A lot of causes of tingling sensations are linked to a condition called peripheral neuropathy. This is a type of nerve damage that leads to tingling and numbness in the hands and feet. Various conditions lead to peripheral neuropathy. It affects an estimated 20 million people in the United States. The causes of peripheral neuropathy and other reasons that feet or hands may tingle are explored here. 1. Pinched nerveA person may experience tingling in their feet or hands because of a pinched nerve in the back. This may have happened as a result of injury or swelling. Other symptoms of a pinched nerve include pain and limited movement. Treatment for a pinched nerve can involve:
Surgery is another option if none of these treatments are effective. 2. ToxinsSwallowing something toxic or a toxin being absorbed through the skin may be a cause of tingling in the feet. Toxins that may cause this include:
Treatment for toxin exposure needs to be carried out urgently and will depend on the substance. 3. AlcoholAlcohol is a toxin and can damage nerve tissue. Drinking too much alcohol may lead to a type of peripheral neuropathy known as alcoholic neuropathy. This condition can cause pain and tingling in the limbs, hands, and feet. These symptoms happen because the peripheral nerves have been damaged by alcohol. From 25 to 66 percent of people who are classified as long-term alcoholics experience alcoholic neuropathy, according to a study. Treatments focus on helping the individual reduce or stop their excessive drinking. 4. AnxietyPeople who experience anxiety may hyperventilate, which can cause tingling in the feet. Hyperventilating is a common symptom of anxiety and is characterized by breathing very rapidly. This causes an imbalance in carbon dioxide and oxygen levels, which may result in the feet tingling. Tingling in the feet and anxiety may be linked psychologically. This is why, when a person feels anxious, they may be more aware of their bodily sensations. Anxiety treatments include:
5. PregnancyTingling in the feet is often experienced when someone is pregnant. The uterus may put pressure on the nerves in a person’s legs as their baby grows. This may cause tingling, often described as “pins and needles.” Staying hydrated, changing positions, and resting with the feet up can help relieve the sensation. Someone should see a doctor if:
A doctor can ensure there is nothing else wrong if someone is pregnant and they experience tingling sensations. 6. Repetitive strain injuryRepetitive strain injury or RSI may cause tingling in the hands. RSI happens when a person carries out repetitive activities for too long without rest. RSI is also known as work-related upper limb disorder. It can be the result of poor posture. RSI commonly affects:
Other symptoms of RSI may include:
Treatments for RSI include:
There is a selection of cold packs and elastic supports available for purchase online. 7. Vitamin deficiencyDeficiency of vitamins E, B-1, B-6, B-12 or niacin may cause tingling in the hands or feet. These vitamins are vital for nerve function. Vitamin B-12 deficiency may lead to peripheral neuropathy. Other symptoms include:
Vitamin deficiencies can be treated by eating a more healthful diet or by dietary supplements. Vitamin B supplements are available for purchase online. 8. Multiple sclerosisMultiple sclerosis or MS is a long-term condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. Numbness or tingling in the feet is an early symptom of MS, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. People with the condition may experience tingling before diagnosis. Other symptoms of MS include:
If someone suspects they may have MS, they should speak to their doctor who can help to reach a diagnosis. Treatments for MS include:
9. MedicationCertain medications may cause tingling in the hands or feet as one of their side effects. Medications that may cause this symptom include those that treat:
10. InfectionsCertain infections cause nerves to become inflamed. This inflammation may lead to tingling in the hands or feet. Infections that may cause this include:
Anyone who suspects they may have an infection should speak to a doctor so that they can do the appropriate tests. These often involve a blood test. A doctor can advise on the best course of treatment once they have diagnosed an infection. 11. Kidney failureTingling in the feet or hands may be a sign of kidney failure. Diabetes and high blood pressure both increase the risk of kidney failure. Other symptoms of kidney failure include:
Anyone who suspects they may have a problem with their kidneys should speak to their doctor for tests to reach a diagnosis. Kidney failure can be treated through dialysis or a kidney transplant. 12. Autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune disease may cause tingling in the feet or hands. Autoimmune disease occurs when the body attacks itself. Autoimmune diseases that may cause tingling include:
To diagnose an autoimmune disease, a doctor may:
Treatments for autoimmune diseases include medication and dietary changes. 13. DiabetesDiabetes causes high blood sugar, which may lead to nerve damage. People with diabetes may experience persistent tingling in the feet as a result. This condition is called diabetic neuropathy. Other diabetes symptoms include:
Treatments for diabetes include:
14. Peripheral artery diseasePeripheral artery disease or PAD affects the circulatory system, causing blood vessels to become narrower. This may lead to poor circulation, which can cause tingling in the feet or hands. PAD may result in a stroke or heart attack due to plaque buildup in the arteries if it is left untreated. Treatments include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery. 15. StrokeTingling in the feet or hands may be a sign of a stroke. Symptoms come on suddenly and may include:
People should call emergency services immediately if they experience one or more of these symptoms. Treatments for stroke include thrombolytic drugs, which help to treat any blood clots. People who experience tingling in their feet or hands regularly should speak to their doctor. They should also tell their doctor about any related symptoms. The doctor can help reach a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment. People should call emergency services without delay if they suspect they or someone else may be having a stroke. When should I be worried about tingling?Go to a hospital or call your local emergency number (such as 911) if: You have weakness or are unable to move, along with numbness or tingling. Numbness or tingling occur just after a head, neck, or back injury. You cannot control the movement of an arm or a leg, or you have lost bladder or bowel control.
When should I go to the ER for dizziness and tingling?If the dizziness is not fleeting, eased by lying down or your balance is compromised, you should immediately visit the closest emergency department. If dizziness is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, you should also seek emergency care: Other neurological symptoms, including double vision and loss of vision.
What causes dizziness and tingling in hands and feet?Vitamin deficiency can cause tingling. If you are deficient in vitamin B-12, you may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, tingling in hands and feet, headache, chest pain, digestive issues, and nausea. A trip to the doctor can help determine if you have a vitamin deficiency.
Can vertigo cause tingling in body?double vision or loss of vision. hearing loss. trouble speaking. leg or arm weakness, numbness or tingling.
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