Paresthesia is described as an abnormal sensation, typically a tingling or prickling ("pins and needles") feeling, that occurs without an apparent physical cause.
Paresthesia is often experienced as:
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Burning
- Itching
- Prickling ("pins and needles")
- Skin crawling sensations
These sensations are most commonly felt in the extremities, such as the hands, arms, legs, and feet. However, paresthesia can affect other parts of the body as well. It can be temporary, brought on by pressure on a nerve (like when your foot "falls asleep"), or chronic, indicating an underlying medical condition.
Temporary Paresthesia:
- Cause: Usually caused by sustained pressure on a nerve, restricting blood supply.
- Examples: Sitting with legs crossed for too long, sleeping on an arm, or wearing tight shoes.
- Resolution: Typically resolves quickly once the pressure is relieved.
Chronic Paresthesia:
- Cause: Can be caused by a variety of underlying medical conditions, including:
- Nerve damage (neuropathy) due to diabetes
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Stroke
- Tumors
- Infections (e.g., shingles)
- Autoimmune diseases
- Vitamin deficiencies (e.g., B12)
- Thyroid disorders
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Requires Medical Evaluation: Chronic paresthesia warrants a visit to a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
If you experience persistent or worsening paresthesia, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for diagnosis and management.
