What are the reasons for my tingling fingers and how can I prevent it?

An uncomfortable and somewhat annoying sensation on the fingertips can disrupt daily activities and sleep.

Kerry Levin, M.D., chair of the department of neurology at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, explained that individuals describe tingling as a "pins and needles" sensation, similar to when fingers fall asleep after leaning on an elbow too long, according to Planet Chronicle Digital.

Here's a deeper dive.

What are some causes of the condition?

There are many possible causes of tingling fingers.

In some cases, the condition can stem from an isolated incident.

According to Levin, a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology, it can happen with anxiety or prolonged pressure on a body part.

"These symptoms go away by themselves when the trigger goes away."

According to the doctor, the most common neurological causes, aside from an isolated incident, are carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar nerve compression at the elbow, or a pinched nerve in the neck.

Damage to or compression of a nerve disrupts the transmission of signals from the skin to the brain.

According to Levin, those signals can be perceived as discomfort or pain.

According to Jesus Lizarzaburu, M.D., a family physician at TPMG Grafton Family Medicine in Yorktown, Virginia, the most common cause of tingling fingers is usually carpal tunnel.

Repetitive actions with your wrists and hands can cause inflammation of the nerve in the carpal tunnel, which is a fixed space in that area, according to the expert.

"As the nerve expands, the strain on the nerve intensifies, exacerbating the tingling sensation."

Additional medical reasons can also cause tingling fingers.

Lizarzaburu noted that diabetic neuropathy, a condition resulting from poorly controlled diabetes, may cause nerve damage.

This usually affects the feet first and the hands later.

The doctor mentioned that another possible reason for tingling could be a deficiency in vitamins B12, B6, or E, which can impact nerve function.

Lyme disease, shingles, and neuritis are conditions that can cause infection or inflammation.

Treatments to alleviate tingling

Experts suggest some measures to manage finger tingling.

One way to prevent tingling is to observe the actions that caused it and avoid repeating those actions.

Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can also help, Lizarzaburu said.

Doctors also recommend staying hydrated by drinking water regularly.

It’s also important to manage existing health conditions.

Lizarzaburu advised that if you have diabetes, it's crucial to manage it through diet and medication prescribed by your family physician.

The doctor recommended initial treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome, which include performing stretching exercises, getting physical therapy, wearing wrist splints overnight, or a combination of these.

If symptoms persist, surgery may be necessary in some cases.

When should you see a doctor?

Symptoms that are brief and infrequent are usually not worrisome, Levin said.

If symptoms worsen or are intensified by coughing, straining, or neck or arm movement, this may indicate a neurological issue that requires medical attention, the doctor advised.

Besides a comprehensive physical examination, the medical professional may choose to conduct MRI imaging or electrical nerve testing.

If a diagnosis is made, there may be specific treatments available, such as exercises for a pinched nerve in the neck or a wrist splint for carpal tunnel syndrome, according to Levin.

If conservative treatments don't work, surgery could provide relief, he stated.

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