What Conditions Can Cause Tingling in the Hands and Feet?

It's fairly normal to experience tingling in a hand or foot after you sleep funny on that part or sit down in one position for a long time. But if you are experiencing frequent tingling in your extremities for seemingly no reason at all, you're right to be more concerned. Here are a few conditions that could be causing your symptoms.

Carpal Tunnel

If the tingling is happening in your hands, there is a good chance it could be caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly if you spend a good portion of the day typing or making other repetitive motions with your hands. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the tissues along the sides of the nerves leading into your hands become inflamed, putting pressure on your nerves. The condition can cause a range of symptoms, from tingling in the hands and fingers to wrist pain and weakness. Many cases improve with simple rest and cold therapy; serious cases may require surgical repair.

Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies

There are an array of vitamins and minerals that are necessary for ongoing nerve health. A deficiency in anything from niacin to vitamin B12 to potassium can sometimes cause tingling in the extremities. As such, one of the first things your doctor will do when you report this symptom is take a blood panel. If you are found to be deficient in any nutrients, they will recommend supplements or injections to bring your levels into the healthy range, and hopefully alleviate the tingling.

Peripheral Neuropathy

If you are diabetic or have undiagnosed diabetes, the tingling could be caused by damage to the peripheral nerves from sustained high blood sugar levels. Any damage that has already been done won't be able to be repaired, but getting your blood sugar under better control can keep the symptoms from getting any worse.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a complex nerve condition in which the body attacks the myelin tissues that surround the nerves. In some patients, the first symptom is tingling in the extremities. Other early symptoms include clumsiness, lack of coordination, general weakness, and changes in vision. If diagnosed with MS, there are a number of medications your doctor can prescribe to delay its progress and minimize your symptoms.

If you are experiencing tingling in your hands and feet, contact your doctor ASAP. They may refer you to a place like the North Texas Neuroscience Center PA  to be tested for conditions like neuropathy and MS.