Why Do We Feel Tingling In Some Parts Of The Body?
We all have the feeling of feeling as if many insects were walking on one of our limbs or as if we had a leg, a foot or an arm asleep. However, do you know exactly why we feel tingling in some parts of our body?
Although this sensation is not painful and generally goes away quickly and effortlessly, it is quite uncomfortable when it occurs to us. Without delving much into the subject, it is always assumed that this is due to a circulation problem.
However, in reality it is also due to other factors that are often unknown to the majority of the population. Thinking of keeping you well informed, we have prepared these curious explanatory data. Do not miss them!
Why do we feel tingling in some parts of the body?
Temporary paresthesia – commonly known as tingling – is a rather uncomfortable sensation that can be felt in any area of the body, but generally occurs in the extremities; that is, in the arms, hands, legs and feet.
When this occurs, it is understood that the structures of the central or peripheral nervous system are involved. In short and to make it more understandable, this occurs when some type of pressure is exerted on the nerve terminals, generally in the extremities.
Now, you may wonder why this sensation develops mostly in the arms and legs. What happens is that it is quite common for us to put pressure on these areas by sitting, lying down, or striking a pose for a long period of time.
It is then when the nerves that run through the area and that are responsible for transmitting information between the body and the brain are stepped on.
As if that were not enough, it also happens that, with the pressure of the posture, we choke the blood vessels that supply oxygen to the nerves; therefore, they are unable to send information to the brain.
The tickling, then, will begin by releasing the pressure because the nerves will be transmitting their signals, albeit late.
These are the main reasons for temporary tingling or paraesthesia in the extremities of the body. However, there are also other causes that translate directly as symptoms of specific pathologies. We detail them below.
Other reasons for paresthesia
Circulatory problems
People who suffer from circulatory problems have tingling in their extremities with some regularity. This makes sense, based on what we explained in the previous section regarding blood supply to the nerves.
In contrast to this, in cases of circulatory problems, it should be considered that the obstruction of flow is not due to posture, but rather depends directly on the circulatory system.
Peripheral diabetic neuropathy
When a person has diabetic peripheral neuropathy, blood sugar levels often rise significantly and cause damage to the nervous system. This produces symptoms in the lower extremities such as tingling, burning sensation, or even loss of sensation.
Nerve injuries
In cases of nerve injuries, such as compression on spinal nerves, trauma damage or the presence of hernias affecting nerves, it is normal for episodes of temporary paresthesia to occur frequently.
Consumption of alcohol or tobacco
Frequent consumption of the toxic substances present in tobacco and alcoholic beverages inevitably leads to the appearance of paresthesia. In both cases, the body becomes intoxicated in such a way that the nerves are damaged or cannot respond to their commands.
Restless legs syndrome
This syndrome also responds to a neurological disorder and usually manifests itself at night, when the person is in a quiet position trying to rest.
It is precisely called restless leg syndrome because those who suffer from it cannot reconcile rest due to the discomfort of the tingling.
Finally, we will list other possible triggers for this discomfort:
- Abnormal presence of potassium and calcium levels in the body.
- Lack of vitamin B12.
- Having been bitten by a snake or scorpion.
- Having anaphylactic shock.
- Side effects from the consumption of medications or drugs.
- In the case of athletes or people who do demanding physical exercises, in response to exhaustion, fatigue and excessive muscle work.
If it persists over time, the tingling may indicate something
With all this information, you will be much more likely to identify what is the trigger for these discomfort in your body. Remember that if the symptoms get worse or the discomfort lasts too long, a medical consultation is the best alternative to rule out more serious problems.
