tingles

Tingles, also known as paresthesia, refers to a prickly or tingling sensation on the skin. This feeling is often described as pins and needles. Tingles can occur for a variety of reasons, some benign and others indicative of underlying medical conditions.

Common causes of temporary tingles include prolonged pressure on a nerve, such as when a limb "falls asleep" due to being in an awkward position. This pressure can temporarily disrupt nerve signals, leading to the sensation. Cold exposure can also cause a tingling feeling as blood flow to the extremities is reduced. Certain medications, particularly some chemotherapy drugs, can induce paresthesia as a side effect.

More persistent or severe tingling can be a symptom of nerve damage or dysfunction. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, where the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, often manifest with tingling in the hand and fingers. Diabetes can lead to diabetic neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that commonly affects the feet and legs, causing tingling, numbness, and pain. Multiple sclerosis, which affects the central nervous system, can also cause various sensory disturbances, including tingling. Vitamin deficiencies, such as a lack of B12, can also impact nerve health and result in paresthesia. If tingles are persistent, unexplained, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, medical evaluation is recommended to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.