Numbness and tingling are abnormal sensations that most often affect the fingers, hands, arms, legs and feet, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In most cases, numbness and tingling are caused by extra pressure that is exerted on a peripheral nerve. In rarer, yet more severe cases, numbness and tingling can be a result of decreased blood flow to the brain. If confusion and inability to speak accompany numbness and tingling, contact a doctor immediately.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The median nerve runs from the forearm into the hand and controls sensation in part of the hand and fingers as well as fine movement. The carpal tunnel is a passageway that encompasses the median nerve and protects it. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the carpal tunnel compresses the median nerve. Compression can be a result of structural abnormalities in which the carpal tunnel is too narrow or repeated movement that causes inflammation of the carpal tunnel, according to Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness, tingling and burning in the hand and fingers. Some people may also experience a weakened grip. Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome usually consists of resting and immobilizing the wrists. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be prescribed. If this treatment is not effective, surgery may be needed to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Herniated Disk
Disks are soft pads located between the vertebrae that make up the spinal column. Disks provide cushion and support and allow the back to move and bend. A herniated disk describes when the nucleus, or center of the disk, protrudes through the edge of the disk and places pressure on the nerves in the spinal canal, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. A herniated disk can occur due to increasing age, improper lifting, smoking, excess body weight and repetitive movements.
Symptoms of a herniated disk in the neck include weakness, tingling and numbness in the arm or leg; loss of bladder control; and pain in the shoulders and neck. Most herniated disks are successfully treated with a combination of muscle relaxants, pain relievers, rest and application of ice. Anti-inflammatory medications may be injected directly into the spine if needed. If these treatment methods are ineffective, surgery to correct the herniated disk may be needed.
Stroke
A stroke is a condition in which blood supply to the brain is interrupted or a blood vessel in the brain bursts and causes blood to cover the surface of the brain. Both of these situations prevent brain cells from receiving an adequate amount of oxygen and may lead to cell death. Risk factors for a stroke include hypertension, abnormal heartbeat and diabetes.
A major sign of a stroke is sudden numbness, or weakness and tingling, that usually occurs on one side of the body, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Other symptoms include confusion, difficulty speaking, difficulty seeing, dizziness, loss of balance and coordination, trouble walking, and severe headache. Treatment for a stroke focuses on rehabilitation to regain normal functioning and anticoagulants. A stroke is a medical emergency. If any of the symptoms of a stroke occur, contact a doctor immediately.
