Tingling is an abnormal sensation that can occur anywhere in the body, but most commonly occurs in limbs and extremities---specifically hands, fingers, legs and feet---according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Hand tingling most often occurs as a result of pressure on a peripheral nerve, but it can also be a result of decreased blood flow to an area due to constricted blood vessels. Although hand tingling does not usually indicate a serious condition, if it is accompanied by numbness, confusion or difficulty speaking, contact a doctor.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The median nerve extends from the forearm into the hand and controls feeling in the hand as well as the movement of the thumb and fingers. The median nerve is protected by a passageway called the carpal tunnel, which is made up of tendons and ligaments. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the carpal tunnel narrows and exerts pressure on the median nerve. Narrowing of the carpal tunnel is usually a result of inflammation due to repetitive wrist motions, such as typing or writing.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include tingling, numbness and burning in the hand and fingers and a decrease in hand strength. Most cases of carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with a combination of anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to reduce the pressure on the median nerve.
Ulnar Nerve Entrapment
The ulnar nerve travels from under the collarbone down the inside of the inner arm and into the hand. The functions of the ulnar nerve include providing feeling to the pinky and ring fingers and aiding in finger movement. Ulnar nerve entrapment is a condition in which the ulnar nerve becomes compressed. The most common causes of ulnar nerve entrapment include previous elbow fractures, bone spurs, inflammation of the elbow joint and cysts, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Symptoms of ulnar nerve entrapment include numbness and tingling in the pinky and ring fingers, weak grip, difficulty with finger coordination and muscle wasting. Treatment consists of symptom relief and includes anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and avoiding use of the affected area of the arm. If these treatment methods are not effective, surgery to reduce the pressure on the nerve may be necessary.
Raynaud's Disease
Raynaud's disease is a condition characterized by the spontaneous narrowing of arteries, or vasospasms. Narrowing of the arteries results in reduced blood flow to the fingers and toes. Most cases of Raynaud's disease have an unknown cause, but some cases are caused by artery diseases, injuries to the hands and feet, and exposure to chemicals and medications that narrow arteries, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Symptoms of Raynaud's disease are triggered by cold temperatures and stress and include paleness, numbness, cold temperature and tingling in the fingers and toes. Symptoms can last for one minute to several hours. Treatment for Raynaud's disease consists of avoiding known triggers, such as cold and stress. An increase in physical activity may also help increase blood flow throughout the body.
