Numbness & Tingling

Numbness, how does it happen?

When there is a disruption in the nerve function, and the nerves are not able to communicate with any other nerves, it may lead to the loss of sensation called numbness.

Tingling, how does it happen?

When the ice was held for too long, the hand became frigid. Why? Because the temperature of the ice is not the optimum condition for the cells in our hands (as well as all the cells in our body) to live. Blood circulation decreases in the hand, making the cells deprived of oxygen. Also, the nerves in the hands don’t work very well at low temperatures. So the neurons, (which are the specialized cells communicating and sending nerve impulses in the hand) start firing up to tell the brain to give the signal to drop the ice. This irritation of neurons makes the tingling sensation.

The same thing happens when you hold something that is very hot. It is not due to the heat, but the neurons’ response to the dying cells that makes a burning sensation in the hand.

The sensation of numbness and pins-and-needles pricking the skin may have been experienced by almost everyone. While this is a very weird, annoying, and uncomfortable, it doesn’t occur on a regular basis to those who don’t have nerve conduction problems.

What Are The Conditions That Cause Numbness and Tingling?

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral Neuropathy is a common condition due to an injury or disease that damages the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The PNS originates from the brain and the spinal cord; it consists of the peripheral nerves extending to the skin, muscle, and tissues.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic Neuropathy is a common complication caused by high glucose levels resulting to nerve damage. Blood containing high levels of glucose travels through the blood vessels, consequently weakening and damaging the blood vessels. When blood vessels have an insufficient supply of nutrients and oxygen to feed the nerves, nerve damage occurs.

Neuralgia

The nerve cells (or neurons) in the body are defended by a coating known as the myelin sheath. When this protection is damaged, neuralgia results. Old age and other neurodegenerative disorders can cause damage to the myelin sheath. Unfortunately, in most cases of neuralgia, causes are unknown.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or Mini Stroke

A “mini-stroke” OR TIA happens when there is a reduction in the blood supply to the brain, depriving it of essential oxygen. This decline of oxygen in the body can result in nerve and brain damage if not taken seriously.

There are many possible causes of numbness and tingling, such as:

• Migraines
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Stroke
• Reynaud’s Disease
• Epilepsy
• Thyroid Disorders
• Certain Medications
• Lack of Vitamins
• Animal Bites

It is important to consult with registered professionals to find and treat the cause of your numbness or tingling. Self-medicating or treating the condition at home may make the symptoms worse without knowing the underlying cause.

Both symptoms of numbness and tingling are bothersome, especially for those who experience them on a regular basis. If you are experiencing similar symptoms, and want to know more about treatments, visit http://www.pegasuspain.com/pain-treatments-dallas/ or book an appointment at one of our Dallas/Fort Worth area pain treatment centers today. 

References:

• Huether, S. E., McCance, K. L., Brashers, V. L., Rote, N. S., Saxon, S. V., & Wetzel, K. C. (2012). Understanding Pathophysiology, 5e (Huether, understanding Pathophysiology) (5th ed.). Philadelphia, PA, United States: Elsevier Health Sciences.
• Pietrangelo, A. (2005). What causes numbness? 50 possible conditions. Retrieved September 5, 2016, from http://www.healthline.com/symptom/numbness
• Tidy, C. (2016, August 1). Neuropathic pain. What is neuropathic pain and neuralgia. Retrieved September 6, 2016, from http://patient.info/health/neuropathic-pain
• Ellen, M. (2005). Neuralgia. Retrieved September 6, 2016, from http://www.healthline.com/health/neuralgia#Types2
• TIA (transient Ischemic attack). (2016, June 29). Retrieved September 6, 2016, from http://www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/AboutStroke/TypesofStroke/TIA/TIA-Transient-Ischemic-Attack_UCM_310942_Article.jsp
• Kantor, D., Neurology, K., Creek, C., Review, Network, V. H., Zieve, D., & Ogilvie, I. (2015, January 6). Numbness and tingling: MedlinePlus medical encyclopedia. Retrieved September 6, 2016, from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003206.htm