Tingling sensation can be described as if the skin is being pinched or poked with pins and needles. Numbness, on the other hand, is a disturbance in which the skin simply cannot recognize certain sensations such as pain, heat etc. These two symptoms may affect each and every portion of the skin; hence, they may affect each and every part of the body. These sensations always occur if there is compression, irritation or damage to the nerves that innervate the specific area of the skin. So, in case of tingling and numbness in fingers the problem is associated with nerves in charge with the skin of this particular area.
Causes of Tingling and Numbness in Fingers
As it has already been mentioned any kind of injury or illness which may cause compression, irritation or damage to certain nerves leads to the occurrence of tingling and numbness in fingers.
Nerve injury may be caused by inflammation, lack of blood supply or by direct compression and infiltration of the nerve. Initially tingling and numbness may be transitory and only if the nerve or certain parts of the nerve are completely destroyed the person will have to deal with lifetime tingling and numbness. Nerve damage and subsequent tingling and numbness of fingers is common for people suffering from peripheral neuropathy, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, ganglion cyst in the wrist or hands.
Some transitory conditions such as electrolyte imbalance, changes in blood sugar levels, migraines or anxiety may be responsible for irreversible tingling and numbness in fingers.
Furthermore, tingling and numbness in fingers may be associated with several more medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, lack of certain vitamins, stroke and intake of certain medications. And finally, this is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy of specific body parts.
Treatment for Tingling and Numbness in Fingers
If these symptoms become more frequent, or tend to linger one is supposed to consult his/her health care provider. It is essential to identify and treat the underlying cause of tingling and numbness in fingers and threat the condition. This way permanent damage to the affected nerve can be prevented.
People whose nerves have been seriously damaged have to face persistent symptoms and they are at higher risk of certain complications such as burns or frostbites. Namely, reduced or complete loss of sensation in fingers makes one unable to recognize hot or cold temperatures and this may cause accidental injuries. People who are suffering from permanent numbness of fingers are supposed to take protective measure each and every time they are manipulating either too hot or too cold objects.