10 Causes of Tingling in Hands & Feet
- Pinched nerve: This is the most common cause of tingling in hands and feet. It can occur when a nerve is compressed or irritated by surrounding tissues. This can happen due to injury, repetitive movements, or conditions such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Diabetes: Nerve damage is a common complication of diabetes. This damage can cause tingling, numbness, and pain in the hands and feet.
- Vitamin deficiency: A deficiency in certain vitamins, such as B12, B6, and E, can cause tingling in the hands and feet.
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD): This condition is characterized by narrowing of the arteries in the legs and feet. This can reduce blood flow and cause tingling, numbness, and pain in the affected areas.
- Multiple sclerosis: This is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hands and feet.
- Stroke: A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. This can damage brain tissue and lead to a variety of symptoms, including tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hands and feet.
- Fibromyalgia: This is a chronic pain disorder that can cause a variety of symptoms, including tingling, numbness, and fatigue in the hands and feet.
- Hypothyroidism: This condition is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including tingling, numbness, and fatigue in the hands and feet.
- Raynaud’s disease: This is a condition that causes the blood vessels in the hands and feet to narrow in response to cold temperatures or stress. This can lead to tingling, numbness, and pain in the affected areas.
- Alcohol abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can damage nerves and lead to tingling, numbness, and pain in the hands and feet.
Diagnosis of Tingling in Hands & Feet
To diagnose the cause of tingling in hands and feet, your doctor will likely ask you about your medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order additional tests, such as blood tests, nerve conduction studies, or electromyography.
Treatment of Tingling in Hands & Feet
Treatment for tingling in hands and feet will depend on the underlying cause. If the tingling is caused by a pinched nerve, your doctor may recommend rest, physical therapy, or medication. If the tingling is caused by diabetes, your doctor may recommend blood sugar control and other measures to prevent nerve damage. If the tingling is caused by a vitamin deficiency, your doctor may recommend vitamin supplements.
In some cases, there may be no underlying cause for tingling in hands and feet. If this is the case, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as stress management and exercise, to help improve your symptoms.