Conditions That Cause Tingling in Hands

Tingling is often associated with numbness or a “pins and needles” feeling, and can occur in any of the extremities but is frequently felt in the fingers and hands. Tingling in the hands occurs in people all the time, but frequent occurrences could mean there is an underlying condition.

A variety of things can cause tingling, even medications or insect bites. Most tingling occurs due to a pinched nerve, which may be resultant from a number of conditions. While most disorders can be treated and are minor, other serious conditions should be recognized and treated immediately.

Common Conditions

Most of the time patients should not be alarmed if they are experiencing a prickling sensation. Tingling often subsides quickly or with medication when associated with common conditions; while pain ranges from mild to severe, common conditions are not typically life threatening.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that is caused by compression of the median nerve. This is caused by repetitive motion with the hands, like typing. Tingling often occurs in the thumb, index and middle fingers. Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome includes taking anti-inflammatory medication, icing and wrapping the wrist in a splint at home, or surgery in some severe cases.

Bone spurs develop around the joints. They often are associated with additional symptoms including muscle spasms, loss of coordination, numbness, and dull pain in the neck or back. Bone spurs often result from arthritis, worsening with age. Cortisone shots can be prescribed for joint swelling, and muscle relaxants or pain medications may help with discomfort. Serious cases may require surgical removal to decompress nerves.

The B vitamins help your brain and nerve cells develop and work properly, thus vitamin B12 directly correlates with neurological issues like numb or tingling in fingers. Other symptoms include nervousness, loss of appetite, poor digestion, and nausea. To obtain more vitamin B12, individuals can receive shots and take supplements.

Serious Conditions

Sometimes symptoms are early signs of a more severe issue that may be developing. Tingling hands and fingers that do not feel better after a short period could be a sign of multiple sclerosis (MS). Tingling is often the first indicator that people have checked before they are diagnosed. MS is a progressive disease that attacks the protective cells surrounding nerves, which leads to impaired vision, muscle control, and balance. There is not a cure for MS, but certain medications can control symptoms and slow development.

People inflicted with diabetes often have some form of neuropathy, or nerve disorder, caused by a variety of factors including: high glucose levels, inflammation, and mechanical injuries. Damage is already done by the time some symptoms are noticed; and aside from tingling, other signs include burning sensations and pain. There is not a cure for diabetic neuropathy and nerve damage cannot be undone, but there is relief for pain and preventative measures can be taken reduce the risk of this disease.

Persistent tingling can also be a sign of an oncoming stroke or other serious medical condition. If this sensation lasts more than a few minutes and does not fade with stretches or movement, contact a medical professional immediately.

Contact Atlanta Hand Specialist

Atlanta Hand Specialist is North Georgia’s leading medical center for hand and upper extremity conditions. Contact our specialists today at (770) 333-7888, or book an appointment online.

Our physicians and staff will provide expert, friendly service at all of our locations surrounding the Atlanta area.