Sensory loss; Paresthesias; Tingling and numbness; Loss of sensation

Your doctor should identify and treat the underlying cause of your numbness or tingling. Treatment of the underlying condition may reverse the symptoms or prevent them from becoming worse. For example, if you have carpal tunnel syndrome or low back pain, your doctor may recommend certain exercises.

If you have diabetes, your doctor will discuss ways to control your blood sugars.

Low levels of vitamins will be treated with vitamin supplements.

Medications that cause numbness or tingling may need to be switched or adjusted. You should not change or stop taking any of your medicines or take large doses of any vitamins or supplements until you have talked with you doctor.

Because numbness can cause a decrease in feeling, you may be more likely to accidentally injure a numb hand or foot. Take care to protect the area from cuts, bumps, bruises, burns, or other injury.

Go to a hospital or call your local emergency number (such as 911) if:

• Weakness or paralysis occurs with numbness or tingling
• Numbness or tingling occur just after a head, neck, or back injury
• You cannot control the movement of an arm or a leg or you have lost bladder or bowel control
• You are confused or have lost consciousness, even briefly
• You have slurred speech, change in vision, difficulty walking, or weakness

Images

Central nervous system

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Numbness and tingling Overview

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Numbness and tingling Prevention

Review Date: 04/21/2009
Reviewed By: Jacob L. Heller, MD, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, Clinic. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)