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Numbness and tingling

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Illustrations

Central nervous system
Central nervous system

Alternative names    Return to top

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

Definition    Return to top

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

Common Causes    Return to top

There are many possible causes:

Home Care    Return to top

The underlying cause of numbness or tingling should be identified and then treated by your doctor. 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 vitamin B12 will be treated with vitamin supplements.

For multiple sclerosis, these steps can help some of the symptoms:

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.

Call your health care provider if    Return to top

Go to a hospital or call 911 if:

Call your doctor if:

What to expect at your health care provider's office    Return to top

Your health care provider will take a medical history and perform a physical examination, with careful evaluation of your neurologic system.

Medical history questions may include the following:

Your doctor may also ask you questions to assess your risk for stroke, an underactive thyroid, or diabetes, as well as questions about your work habits and medications.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

Update Date: 10/16/2003

Updated by: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma., and Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., M.Sc., Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (11/14/2002).

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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.