Paraesthesia: Causes, Symptoms, and Best Treatment Options

What is Paraesthesia?

Paraesthesia is an abnormal sensation in various body parts, especially the hands, feet, arms, or legs, and may be described as pins and needles, numbness, or tingling. 

Paraesthesia could last for a short time or a long time, depending on the underlying cause. Temporary paraesthesia often occurs due to nerve compression, such as sitting cross-legged for too long, while chronic paraesthesia may result from neurological disorders or systemic conditions.

Temporary vs. Chronic Paraesthesia

Temporary paraesthesia is usually harmless and goes away without any treatment. It is often due to nerve compression, immobility, or mild vascular problems. However, chronic paraesthesia might be a sign of underlying illnesses like diabetes or multiple sclerosis. Differentiating between these kinds may help decide if medical help is necessary.

Moreover, paraesthesia symptoms can worsen, leading to increased episodes due to excessive drinking and smoking. Changing one’s way of life, for example, eating well and staying away from too much alcohol, may help control the condition.

What are the Symptoms of Paraesthesia?

The symptoms of paraesthesia may vary depending on the cause and severity. Common symptoms include:

• Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation
• Numbness in affected areas
• Burning or itching sensations
• Weakness in the limbs
• Sensitivity to touch
• Muscle cramps or spasms in some cases
• A sensation of electric shock travelling through the limbs
• Difficulty with coordination and balance in severe cases
• Changes in skin temperature or colour due to circulation issues
• Increased risk of falls or injuries due to a lack of sensation

Difficulty walking, writing, or holding objects without dropping them may indicate paraesthesia symptoms. In case the symptoms continue or become more serious as time goes by, it would be advisable for one to see a doctor.

What are the Causes of Paraesthesia?

Paraesthesia can be caused by several factors, ranging from temporary nerve compression to chronic medical conditions. Some common causes include:

1. Pressure on Nerves

If you sit or stand for too long in one position, you may experience pins and needles because your blood supply is reduced and your nerves are compressed. This is often experienced when waking up after sleeping in an awkward position.

2. Nerve Damage

Conditions such as diabetes often cause peripheral neuropathy, which may lead to chronic paraesthesia. The long-term effect of damaged nerves is a continued lack of sensation and a slight pricking feeling in the arms and legs.

3. Vitamin Deficiencies

Lack of vitamins such as B12, B6, and folic acid causes problems in the nerves. An untreated vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to nerve damage and chronic paraesthesia. To avoid paraesthesia from occurring because of a lack of vitamins, it is important to have a good meal that contains all types of nutrients.

4. Infections and Autoimmune Diseases

• Shingles: When the herpes zoster virus affects nerves, it causes burning pain as well as a feeling of pins and needles.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): An autoimmune illness that damages the nerves in the backbone, leading to continuous numbness.
• Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Inflammation of body tissues in autoimmune diseases may result in peri-neural irritation and paraesthesia too.
• Lyme Disease: A bacterial infection transmitted by ticks leads to neurologic problems such as paraesthesia.

5. Spinal Issues

• Herniated Disc: A slipped disc in the spine can compress nerves, causing numbness and tingling in the limbs.
• Cervical Spondylosis: Age-related wear and tear in the neck can lead to nerve compression and paraesthesia.
• Sciatica: Compression of the sciatic nerve can lead to tingling and numbness that radiates down the leg.

6. Medications and Toxins

Chemotherapy drugs and anti-seizure medications are some medicines that may lead to paraesthesia by injuring the nerves. Nerve-related symptoms can arise from exposure to toxic heavy metals like lead and mercury too.

7. Psychological Factors

Stress and anxiety can sometimes contribute to paraesthesia, as heightened nervous system activity can lead to tingling sensations in various body parts. Practising mindfulness techniques and reducing stress levels can help minimise symptoms.

Paraesthesia Diagnosis

To diagnose paraesthesia, the following approaches may be adopted.

• Physical Examination: A physical exam helps check for nerve function and symptoms.
• Medical History: The patient’s medical history is assessed to determine any underlying conditions contributing to symptoms
• Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans can help detect nerve compression or damage.
• Electromyography (EMG): This test helps assess nerve function.
• Blood tests: These tests check for vitamin deficiencies, infections, or diabetes.
• Nerve Conduction Studies: These tests help evaluate how well electrical signals travel through nerves.

Early diagnosis is crucial in preventing further nerve damage and improving treatment outcomes.

What are the Different Treatment Options for Paraesthesia?

Paraesthesia treatments are recommended based on the underlying cause. Common paraesthesia treatments include:

1. Lifestyle Changes

• Avoid prolonged pressure on nerves by adjusting posture and taking breaks.
• Engage in regular exercise to improve circulation and nerve function.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on nerves.
• Reduce stress through relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

2. Medications

• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help.
• Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Corticosteroids may be prescribed for inflammation-related nerve damage.
• Nerve Pain Medications: Gabapentin and pregabalin are commonly used to treat neuropathic pain.
• Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants can help manage nerve pain associated with paraesthesia.

3. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can make your muscles stronger and more flexible and improve nerve functioning. Certain exercises might ease the squeezing of pinched nerves and bring back movement.

4. Vitamin Supplements

If paraesthesia is caused by vitamin deficiencies, taking supplements like B12, B6, and folic acid can help restore nerve health.

5. Surgery

In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required. This includes procedures such as:

• Carpal Tunnel Surgery: To relieve pressure on the median nerve.
• Spinal Surgery: To correct herniated discs or spinal stenosis.

6. Managing Underlying Conditions

People with diabetes must control their blood sugar well to avoid diabetic neuropathy. Those suffering from multiple sclerosis or autoimmune diseases might need continuous therapy to control the symptoms.

Conclusion

Paraesthesia is a common condition that can result from temporary nerve compression or more serious medical conditions. Identifying the cause and seeking appropriate paraesthesia treatments from a specialist is crucial to effectively managing this condition. HCG Hospitals, a multispeciality hospital in India, has well-trained specialists for comprehensive paraesthesia management. If you experience persistent or severe paraesthesia, consult a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.