# Paresthesia

> Mediated Wiki article. Canonical URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Paresthesia
> Markdown URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Paresthesia.md
> Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paresthesia
> Source revision: 1355367667
> License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/)

"Tingling" redirects here. For the ancient people mentioned in Chinese historiography, see [Dingling](/source/Dingling).

"Pins and needles" redirects here. For other uses, see [Pins and needles (disambiguation)](/source/Pins_and_needles_(disambiguation)).

Not to be confused with [Anaesthesia](/source/Anaesthesia) or [Pallesthesia](/source/Pallesthesia).

**Paresthesia** (or paraesthesia) is a sensation of the skin that may feel like numbness (*[hypoesthesia](/source/Hypoesthesia)*), tingling, pricking, chilling, or burning.[1] It can be temporary or [chronic](/source/Chronic_condition) and has many possible underlying causes.[1] Paresthesia is usually painless and can occur anywhere on the body, but does most commonly in the arms and legs.[1]

The most familiar kind of paresthesia is the sensation known as *pins and needles* after having a limb "fall asleep" (*[obdormition](/source/Obdormition)*). This is typically achieved by not moving the limb for a long period of time. Hitting the [ulnar nerve](/source/Ulnar_nerve) (the "funny bone", actually a nerve) also induces paresthesias. A less common kind is *[formication](/source/Formication)*, the sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin.

## Causes

### Transient

Paresthesias of the hands, feet, legs, and arms are common transient symptoms. The briefest electric shock type of paresthesia can be caused by an impact on the comparatively unprotected [ulnar nerve](/source/Ulnar_nerve) near the elbow; this phenomenon is colloquially known as bumping one's "funny bone". Other common examples occur when sustained pressure has been applied over a [nerve](/source/Nerve), inhibiting or stimulating its function. Removing the pressure typically results in gradual relief of these paresthesias.[1] Most pressure-induced paraesthesia results from awkward posture, such as engaging in [cross-legged sitting](/source/Cross-legged_sitting) for prolonged periods of time.[2] Similar brief shocks can be experienced when any other nerve is injured (e.g., a pinched neck nerve may cause a brief shock-like paresthesia toward the scalp). Spinal column irregularities may injure the spinal cord briefly when the head or back is turned, flexed, or extended into brief uncommon positions ([Lhermitte's sign](/source/Lhermitte's_sign)).[3]

The most common everyday cause is temporary restriction of nerve impulses to an area of nerves, commonly caused by leaning or resting on parts of the body such as the legs (often followed by a pins and needles tingling sensation). [Reactive hyperaemia](/source/Reactive_hyperaemia), which occurs when blood flow is restored after a period of [ischemia](/source/Ischemia), may be accompanied by paresthesia too, e.g., when patients with [Raynaud's disease](/source/Raynaud_syndrome) rewarm after a cold episode.[4] Other causes include conditions such as [hyperventilation syndrome](/source/Hyperventilation_syndrome) and [panic attacks](/source/Panic_attack), in which paresthesias of the mouth, hands, and feet are common, transient symptoms.[5] A cold sore outside the mouth (not a [canker sore](/source/Aphthous_stomatitis) inside the mouth) can be preceded by tingling due to activity of the causative [herpes simplex virus](/source/Herpes_simplex_virus).[6] The [varicella zoster virus](/source/Varicella_zoster_virus), which causes [shingles](/source/Shingles), also notably may cause recurring pain and tingling in skin or tissue along the distribution path of that nerve (most commonly in the skin, along a [dermatome](/source/Dermatome_(anatomy)) pattern, but sometimes feeling like a headache, chest or abdominal pain, or pelvic pain).[7][8]

Paresthesias can also be a symptom of [mercury poisoning](/source/Mercury_poisoning).[9] [Seafood poisoning](/source/Fish_as_food) is also possible, e.g., [ciguatera toxin](/source/Ciguatoxin) is produced within [dinoflagellate](/source/Dinoflagellate) plankton, which when consumed by other sea animals and then by humans, can lead to perioral paresthesia and temperature-related [dysesthesia](/source/Dysesthesia).[10]

Cases of paresthesia have also been reported at varying frequencies following [anthrax](/source/Anthrax_vaccines),[11] [flu](/source/Influenza_vaccine),[12][13] [HPV](/source/HPV_vaccine),[14] and [COVID-19](/source/COVID-19_vaccine)[15][16] [vaccine](/source/Vaccine) intake. [Benzodiazepine](/source/Benzodiazepine) withdrawal may also cause paresthesia, as the drug removal leaves the [GABA receptors](/source/GABA_receptors) desensitized. Benzodiazepines (e.g., [Xanax](/source/Alprazolam) and [Valium](/source/Diazepam)) can be prescribed to try to relax [muscle spasms](/source/Spasm) or suppress [epileptic seizures](/source/Seizure).[17]

### Chronic

Chronic paresthesia (Berger's paresthesia,[18] Sinagesia,[19] or [meralgia paresthetica](/source/Meralgia_paraesthetica)[20]) indicates either a problem with the functioning of neurons, or poor [circulation](/source/Circulation_(physiology)).[citation needed] In the elderly, paresthesia is often the result of poor circulation in the limbs (such as in [peripheral vascular disease](/source/Peripheral_vascular_disease)), most often caused by [atherosclerosis](/source/Atherosclerosis), the build-up of plaque within artery walls over decades, with eventual [plaque ruptures](/source/Vulnerable_plaque), internal clots over the ruptures, and subsequent clot healing, but leaving behind [narrowing](/source/Stenosis) or closure of the artery openings, locally and/or in downstream smaller branches.[21] Without a proper supply of blood and nutrients, nerve cells can no longer adequately send signals to the brain. Because of this, paresthesia can also be a symptom of [vitamin deficiency](/source/Vitamin_deficiency) or other malnutrition, as well as metabolic disorders like [diabetes](/source/Diabetes_mellitus), [hypothyroidism](/source/Hypothyroidism),[22] or [hypoparathyroidism](/source/Hypoparathyroidism).

Irritation to the nerve can also come from inflammation to the tissue. Joint conditions such as [rheumatoid arthritis](/source/Rheumatoid_arthritis), [psoriatic arthritis](/source/Psoriatic_arthritis), and [carpal tunnel syndrome](/source/Carpal_tunnel_syndrome) are common sources of paresthesia. Nerves below the head may be compressed where chronic neck and spine problems exist, and can be caused by, among other things, muscle cramps that may be a result of clinical anxiety or excessive mental stress,[citation needed] [bone disease](/source/Bone_disease), poor posture, unsafe heavy lifting practices, or physical trauma such as [whiplash](/source/Whiplash_(medicine)).[5]

Another cause of paresthesia may be direct damage to the nerves themselves, i.e., [neuropathy](/source/Neuropathy), which itself can stem from injury, such as from [frostbite](/source/Frostbite); infections such as [Lyme disease](/source/Lyme_disease); or may be indicative of a current neurological disorder. Neuropathy is also a side effect of some chemotherapies, such as in the case of [chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy](/source/Chemotherapy-induced_peripheral_neuropathy).[23] Chronic paresthesia can sometimes be symptomatic of serious conditions, such as a [transient ischemic attack](/source/Transient_ischemic_attack); or [autoimmune diseases](/source/Autoimmune_disease) such as [multiple sclerosis](/source/Multiple_sclerosis), [complex regional pain syndrome](/source/Complex_Regional_Pain_Syndrome), or [lupus erythematosus](/source/Lupus_erythematosus).[citation needed] The use of [fluoroquinolones](/source/Fluoroquinolones) can also cause paresthesia.[24] [Brainstem stroke](/source/Brainstem_stroke_syndrome) survivors[25][26] and those with [traumatic brain injury](/source/Traumatic_brain_injury) (TBI) may experience paresthesia from damage to the central nervous system.

### Acroparesthesia

Acroparesthesia is severe pain in the extremities, and may be caused by [Fabry disease](/source/Fabry_disease), a type of [sphingolipidosis](/source/Sphingolipidoses).[27] It can also be a sign of [hypocalcemia](/source/Hypocalcemia).[28]

### Dentistry

Dental paresthesia is loss of sensation caused by maxillary or mandibular anesthetic administration before dental treatment.[29]

Potential causes include trauma introduced to the nerve sheath during administration of the injection, hemorrhage about the sheath, more side-effect-prone types of anesthetic being used, or administration of anesthetic contaminated with alcohol or sterilizing solutions.[30]

### Drugs

- [Anticonvulsant](/source/Anticonvulsant) [pharmaceutical drugs](/source/Pharmaceutical_drug), such as [topiramate](/source/Topiramate), [sultiame](/source/Sultiame), or [acetazolamide](/source/Acetazolamide)
- [Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome](/source/Antidepressant_discontinuation_syndrome)
- [Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome](/source/Benzodiazepine_withdrawal_syndrome)
- [Beta alanine](/source/Beta_alanine)
- [Dextromethorphan](/source/Dextromethorphan) (recreational use)
- Intravenous administering of strong [pharmaceutical drugs](/source/Pharmaceutical_drug) acting on the [central nervous system](/source/Central_nervous_system) (CNS), mainly [opiates](/source/Opiate), [opioids](/source/Opioid), or other [narcotics](/source/Narcotic), especially in non-medical use ([drug abuse](/source/Substance_abuse))
- [Ketorolac](/source/Ketorolac)
- [Lidocaine](/source/Lidocaine) poisoning
- [Lomotil](/source/Lomotil)
- [Nitrous oxide](/source/Nitrous_oxide), long-term exposure[31]
- [Ritonavir](/source/Ritonavir)[32]

### Other

Other causes may include:

- [Autonomous sensory meridian response](/source/Autonomous_sensory_meridian_response) ("ASMR")[33]
- [Carpal tunnel syndrome](/source/Carpal_tunnel_syndrome)
- [Cerebral amyloid angiopathy](/source/Cerebral_amyloid_angiopathy)
- [Chiari malformation](/source/Chiari_malformation)
- [Coeliac disease](/source/Coeliac_disease)
- [Complex regional pain syndrome](/source/Complex_regional_pain_syndrome)
- [Cubital tunnel syndrome](/source/Cubital_tunnel_syndrome)
- [Decompression sickness](/source/Decompression_sickness)
- [Dehydration](/source/Dehydration)
- [Erythromelalgia](/source/Erythromelalgia)
- [Fabry disease](/source/Fabry_disease)
- [Fibromyalgia](/source/Fibromyalgia)
- [Fluoroquinolone toxicity](/source/Fluoroquinolone_toxicity)
- [Guillain–Barré syndrome](/source/Guillain%E2%80%93Barr%C3%A9_syndrome) (GBS)
- [Heavy metals](/source/Heavy_metal_(chemistry))
- [Herpes zoster](/source/Herpes_zoster)
- [Hydroxy alpha sanshool](/source/Hydroxy_alpha_sanshool), a component of [Sichuan peppers](/source/Sichuan_pepper)
- [Hyperglycemia](/source/Hyperglycemia) (high [blood sugar](/source/Blood_sugar))
- [Hyperkalemia](/source/Hyperkalemia)
- [Hyperventilation](/source/Hyperventilation)
- [Hypocalcemia](/source/Hypocalcemia), and in turn: - [Hypermagnesemia](/source/Hypermagnesemia), a condition in which hypocalcemia itself is typically observed as a secondary symptom
- [Hypoglycemia](/source/Hypoglycemia) (low [blood sugar](/source/Blood_sugar))
- [Hypothyroidism](/source/Hypothyroidism)
- [Immunodeficiency](/source/Immunodeficiency), such as [chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy](/source/Chronic_inflammatory_demyelinating_polyneuropathy) (CIDP)
- [Lupus erythematosus](/source/Lupus_erythematosus)
- [Lyme disease](/source/Lyme_disease)
- [Magnesium deficiency](/source/Magnesium_deficiency), often as a result of long-term [proton-pump inhibitor](/source/Proton-pump_inhibitor) use
- [Menopause](/source/Menopause)
- [Mercury poisoning](/source/Mercury_poisoning)
- [Migraines](/source/Migraine)
- [Multiple sclerosis](/source/Multiple_sclerosis)
- [Nerve compression syndrome](/source/Nerve_compression_syndrome)
- [Obdormition](/source/Obdormition)
- [Oxygen toxicity](/source/Oxygen_toxicity), especially breathing oxygen under pressure, such as in scuba diving
- [Pyrethrum](/source/Pyrethrum) or [pyrethroid](/source/Pyrethroid) [pesticides](/source/Pesticide)[34]
- [Post-polio syndrome](/source/Post-polio_syndrome)
- [Rabies](/source/Rabies)
- [Radiation poisoning](/source/Radiation_poisoning)
- [Sarcoidosis](/source/Sarcoidosis)
- [Sciatica](/source/Sciatica)[35]
- [Scorpion stings](/source/Scorpion_stings)
- [Spinal disc herniation](/source/Spinal_disc_herniation) or injury
- [Spinal stenosis](/source/Spinal_stenosis)
- [Stinging nettles](/source/Urtica_dioica)
- [Syringomyelia](/source/Syringomyelia)
- [Transverse myelitis](/source/Transverse_myelitis)
- [Variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease](/source/Variant_Creutzfeldt%E2%80%93Jakob_disease) (AKA "mad cow disease")
- [Vitamin B5](/source/Pantothenic_acid) deficiency
- [Vitamin B6 excess](/source/Megavitamin-B6_syndrome)
- [Vitamin B12 deficiency](/source/Vitamin_B12_deficiency)

## Diagnostics

A nerve conduction study usually provides useful information for making a diagnosis. An [MRI](/source/MRI) or a [CT scan](/source/CT_scan) is sometimes used to rule out certain causes stemming from central nervous system issues.[36]

## Treatment

Medications offered can include the [immunosuppressant](/source/Immunosuppressant) [prednisone](/source/Prednisone), intravenous [gamma globulin](/source/Gamma_globulin) (IVIG), [anticonvulsants](/source/Anticonvulsant) such as [gabapentin](/source/Gabapentin) or [tiagabine](/source/Tiagabine), or [antiviral](/source/Antiviral_drug) medication, depending on the underlying cause.[medical citation needed]

In addition to treatment of the underlying disorder, palliative care can include the use of topical numbing creams, such as [lidocaine](/source/Lidocaine) or [prilocaine](/source/Prilocaine). [Ketamine](/source/Ketamine) has also been successfully used, but is generally not approved by insurance. Careful consideration must be taken to apply only the necessary amount, as excess can contribute to these conditions. Otherwise, these products generally offer extremely effective, but short-lasting relief from these conditions.

Paresthesia caused by stroke may receive some temporary benefit from high doses of [baclofen](/source/Baclofen) multiple times a day.[citation needed] [HIV](/source/HIV) patients who self-medicate with cannabis report that it reduces their symptoms.[37]

Paresthesia caused by [shingles](/source/Shingles) is treated with appropriate [antiviral medication](/source/Antiviral_medication).[38]

## Etymology

The word *paresthesia* (/ˌpærᵻsˈθiːziə,_-ʒə/; British English *paraesthesia*; plural paraesthesiae /-zii/ or paraesthesias) comes from the [Greek](/source/Greek_language) *para* ("beside", i.e., 'abnormal') and *aisthesia* ("sensation").[39]

## References

1. ["Paresthesia Information Page"](https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Paresthesia-Information-Page). *National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke*. 2019-03-27. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201111220329/https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Paresthesia-Information-Page) 2020-11-11 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2021-03-12.

1. ["Paresthesia | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke"](https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/glossary-neurological-terms#paresthesia). *www.ninds.nih.gov*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220517010422/https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/paresthesia) 2022-05-17 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2022-11-18.

1. Beckmann, Yesim; Özakbaş, Serkan; Bülbül, Nazlı Gamze; Kösehasanoğulları, Görkem; Seçil, Yaprak; Bulut, Onur; İncesu, Tülay Kurt; Tokuçoğlu, Figen; Ertekin, Cumhur (2015). ["Reassessment of Lhermitte's sign in multiple sclerosis"](http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s13760-015-0466-4). *Acta Neurologica Belgica*. **115** (4): 605–608. [doi:10.1007/s13760-015-0466-4](https://doi.org/10.1007/s13760-015-0466-4). [ISSN 0300-9009](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/0300-9009). [PMID 25841671](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25841671)

1. Belch JJ, McCollum PT, Walker WF, Stonebridge PA (1996). *Color atlas of peripheral vascular diseases*. Mosby-Wolfe. p. 77. ISBN 978-0-7234-2074-3.

1. Sharif-Alhoseini, Mahdi; Rahimi-Movaghar, Vafa; R., Alexander (2012-02-29), ["Underlying Causes of Paresthesia"](http://www.intechopen.com/books/paresthesia/underlying-causes-of-paresthesia), *Paresthesia*, Imbelloni, Luiz Eduardo (ed.), InTech, [doi:10.5772/32360](https://doi.org/10.5772/32360). ISBN 978-953-51-0085-0, retrieved 2025-09-26

1. Whitley, Richard; Kimberlin, David W.; Prober, Charles G. (2007), ["Pathogenesis and disease"](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK47449/), *Human Herpesviruses: Biology, Therapy, and Immunoprophylaxis*, Arvin, Ann (ed.), Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, ISBN 978-0-521-82714-0. [PMID 21348130](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21348130), retrieved 2025-09-24 Prodromal symptoms including burning, itching, or tingling may precede the outbreak by several hours.

1. ["Shingles (herpes zoster)"](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/shingles-(herpes-zoster)). *World Health Organization*. Retrieved 2025-09-24.

1. CDC (2024-05-10). ["Clinical Features of Shingles (Herpes Zoster)"](https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/hcp/clinical-signs/index.html). *Shingles (Herpes Zoster)*. Retrieved 2025-09-24.

1. Staff, Nathan P. & Windebank, Anthony J. (2014). "Peripheral neuropathy due to vitamin deficiency, toxins, and medications". *Continuum (Minneapolis, Minn.)*. **20** (5 Peripheral Nervous System Disorders): 1293–1306. [doi:10.1212/01.CON.0000455880.06675.5a](https://doi.org/10.1212/01.CON.0000455880.06675.5a). [ISSN 1538-6899](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/1538-6899). [PMC 4208100](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4208100). [PMID 25299283](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25299283) Organic mercury affects the dorsal root and trigeminal ganglia, causing paresthesia, often before causing widespread [central nervous system] dysfunction.

1. Pearn, J. (2001). "Neurology of ciguatera". *Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry*. **70** (1): 4–8. [doi:10.1136/jnnp.70.1.4](https://doi.org/10.1136/jnnp.70.1.4). [ISSN 0022-3050](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/0022-3050). [PMC 1763481](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1763481). [PMID 11118239](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11118239)

1. Sever, John L.; Brenner, Alan I.; Gale, Arnold D.; Lyle, Jerry M.; Moulton, Lawrence H.; West, David J. (2002-05-03). ["Safety of anthrax vaccine: a review by the Anthrax Vaccine Expert Committee (AVEC) of adverse events reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS)"](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pds.712). *Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety*. **11** (3): 189–202. [doi:10.1002/pds.712](https://doi.org/10.1002/pds.712). [ISSN 1053-8569](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/1053-8569). [PMID 12051118](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12051118). [S2CID 43578539](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:43578539). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20221107115520/https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pds.712) 2022-11-07 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2022-11-07.

1. Durrieu, Geneviève; Caillet, Céline; Lacroix, Isabelle; Jacquet, Alexis; Faucher, Angeline; Ouaret, Shéhérazade; Sommet, Agnès; Perault-Pochat, Marie-Christine; Kreft-Jaïs, Carmen; Castot, Anne; Damase-Michel, Christine; Montastruc, Jean-Louis (November–December 2011). ["Campagne nationale de vaccination contre la grippe A (H1N1)v: suivi national de pharmacovigilance"](https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0040595716308095) (in French). *Therapies*. **66** (6): 527–540. [doi:10.2515/therapie/2011075](https://doi.org/10.2515/therapie/2011075). [PMID 22186078](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22186078). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230313195410/https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0040595716308095) 2023-03-13 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2022-11-07.

1. Serres, Gaston De; Gariépy, Marie-Claude; Coleman, Brenda; Rouleau, Isabelle; McNeil, Shelly; Benoît, Mélanie; McGeer, Allison; Ambrose, Ardith; Needham, Judy; Bergeron, Chantal; Grenier, Cynthia; Sleigh, Kenna; Kallos, Arlene; Ouakki, Manale; Ouhoummane, Najwa (2012-07-03). "Short and Long-Term Safety of the 2009 AS03-Adjuvanted Pandemic Vaccine". *PLOS ONE*. **7** (7). [Bibcode:2012PLoSO...738563D](https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2012PLoSO...738563D). [doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0038563](https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0038563). [ISSN 1932-6203](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/1932-6203). [PMC 3389012](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3389012). [PMID 22802929](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22802929)

1. Martínez-Lavín, Manuel (2015-05-20). ["Hypothesis: Human papillomavirus vaccination syndrome—small fiber neuropathy and dysautonomia could be its underlying pathogenesis"](https://link.springer.com/10.1007/s10067-015-2969-z). *Clinical Rheumatology*. **34** (7): 1165–1169. [doi:10.1007/s10067-015-2969-z](https://doi.org/10.1007/s10067-015-2969-z). [ISSN 0770-3198](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/0770-3198). [PMID 25990003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25990003). [S2CID 10315339](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:10315339). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230702175715/https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10067-015-2969-z) 2023-07-02 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2022-11-07.

1. Yong, Shin-Jie; Halim, Alice; Halim, Michael; Al Mutair, Abbas; Alhumaid, Saad; Al-Sihati, Jehad; Albayat, Hawra; Alsaeed, Mohammed; Garout, Mohammed; Al Azmi, Reyouf; Aldakheel, Noor; Alshukairi, Abeer N.; Al Ali, Hani A.; Almoumen, Adel A.; Rabaan, Ali A. (2022-07-02). "Rare Adverse Events Associated with BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech): A Review of Large-Scale, Controlled Surveillance Studies". *Vaccines*. **10** (7): 1067. [doi:10.3390/vaccines10071067](https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071067). [ISSN 2076-393X](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/2076-393X). [PMC 9319660](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9319660). [PMID 35891231](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35891231)

1. Allahyari, Fakhri; Molaee, Hamideh; Nejad, Javad Hosseini (2022-09-12). "Covid-19 vaccines and neurological complications: a systematic review". *Zeitschrift für Naturforschung C*. **78** (1–2): 1–8. [doi:10.1515/znc-2022-0092](https://doi.org/10.1515/znc-2022-0092). [ISSN 1865-7125](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/1865-7125). [PMID 36087300](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36087300). [S2CID 252181197](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:252181197)

1. Tan, Kelly R.; Rudolph, Uwe; Lüscher, Christian (2011). "Hooked on benzodiazepines: GABAA receptor subtypes and addiction". *Trends in Neurosciences*. **34** (4): 188–197. [doi:10.1016/j.tins.2011.01.004](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tins.2011.01.004). [ISSN 1878-108X](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/1878-108X). [PMC 4020178](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4020178). [PMID 21353710](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21353710)

1. [ICD-10: R20.2]

1. [ICD-10: R25.1]

1. [[ICD-10](/source/ICD-10): G57.1]

1. ["Poor Circulation: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment"](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21882-poor-circulation). *Cleveland Clinic*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20250813092559/https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21882-poor-circulation) 2025-08-13 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2025-09-25.

1. ["Overview: Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279601/), *InformedHealth.org [Internet]*, Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG), 2024-05-28, retrieved 2025-09-25

1. ["Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy"](http://www.cancer.gov/aboutnci/ncicancerbulletin/archive/2010/022310/page6). National Cancer Institute. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20111211105234/http://www.cancer.gov/aboutnci/ncicancerbulletin/archive/2010/022310/page6) 11 December 2011 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 1 December 2011.

1. ["FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA requires label changes to warn of risk for possibly permanent nerve damage from antibacterial fluoroquinolone drugs taken by mouth or by injection"](https://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm365050.htm). Food & Drug Administration. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160528231716/http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm365050.htm) 28 May 2016 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 28 May 2016.

1. Brigo, Francesco; Tomelleri, Giampaolo; Bovi, Paolo; Bovi, Tommaso (2012). ["Hemiparesthesias in lacunar pontine ischemic stroke"](http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s10072-011-0773-3). *Neurological Sciences*. **33** (3): 619–621. [doi:10.1007/s10072-011-0773-3](https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-011-0773-3). [ISSN 1590-1874](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/1590-1874)

1. Kim, Jong S. & Bae, Yeong H. (1997). ["Pure or Predominant Sensory Stroke Due to Brain Stem Lesion"](https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.STR.28.9.1761). *Stroke*. **28** (9): 1761–1764. [doi:10.1161/01.STR.28.9.1761](https://doi.org/10.1161/01.STR.28.9.1761). [ISSN 0039-2499](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/0039-2499)

1. Marks, Dawn B.; Swanson, Todd; Kim, Sandra I.; Glucksman, Marc (2007). [*Biochemistry and Molecular biology*](https://archive.org/details/biochemistrymole0000swan_f9p0). Philadelphia: [Wolters Kluwer Health](/source/Wolters_Kluwer_Health)/[Lippincott Williams & Wilkins](/source/Lippincott_Williams_%26_Wilkins). ISBN 978-0-7817-8624-9.

1. "Part 10.1: Life-Threatening Electrolyte Abnormalities". *Circulation*. **112** (24_supplement): IV-125. 13 December 2005. [doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.166563](https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.166563). [S2CID 79026294](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:79026294) Symptoms of hypocalcemia usually occur when ionized levels fall to <2.5 mg/dL. Symptoms include paresthesias of the extremities and face, followed by muscle cramps, carpopedal spasm, stridor, tetany, and seizures.

1. Ahmad, Maha (2018-02-22). "The Anatomical Nature of Dental Paresthesia: A Quick Review". *The Open Dentistry Journal*. **12**: 155–159. [doi:10.2174/1874210601812010155](https://doi.org/10.2174/1874210601812010155). [ISSN 1874-2106](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/1874-2106). [PMC 5838625](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5838625). [PMID 29541262](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29541262)

1. Garisto, G; Gaffen, A; Lawrence, H; Tenenbaum, H; Haas, D (Jul 2010). "Occurrence of Paresthesia After Dental Local Anesthetic Administration in the United States". *The Journal of the American Dental Association*. **141** (7): 836–844. [doi:10.14219/jada.archive.2010.0281](https://doi.org/10.14219/jada.archive.2010.0281). [PMID 20592403](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20592403)

1. ["Nitrous Oxide"](https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/healthguidelines/nitrousoxide/recognition.html#healthhazard). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20130513133032/http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/healthguidelines/nitrousoxide/recognition.html#healthhazard) 2013-05-13 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2016-03-05.

1. Scully, C. & Diz Dios, P. (2001). "Orofacial effects of antiretroviral therapies". *Oral Diseases*. **7** (4): 205–210. [doi:10.1034/j.1601-0825.2001.70401.x](https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1601-0825.2001.70401.x). [PMID 11575869](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11575869)

1. Tihanyi, Benedek T.; Ferentzi, Eszter; Beissner, Florian; Köteles, Ferenc (1 February 2018). "The neuropsychophysiology of tingling". *Consciousness and Cognition*. **58**: 97–110. [doi:10.1016/j.concog.2017.10.015](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.concog.2017.10.015). [ISSN 1053-8100](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/1053-8100). [PMID 29096941](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29096941). [S2CID 46885551](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:46885551)

1. Vijverberg, H.P., van den Bercken, J. Crit. Rev. Toxicol. (1990) Neurotoxicological effects and the mode of action of pyrethroid insecticides.

1. ["What That Pins and Needles Feeling Means"](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/worry-pins-needles)

1. Nguyen, Parker; Parikh, Seema; Ko, Caitlyn; Nguyen, Grace; Kaye, Alan D.; Urits, Ivan; Hasoon, Jamal (May 21, 2025). "Notalgia Paresthetica: An Updated Review of Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment Approaches". *Current Pain and Headache Reports*. **29** (1). Springer US. [doi:10.1007/s11916-025-01402-2](https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-025-01402-2). [PMID 40397314](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40397314). – via Springer Nature Link.

1. Woolridge Emily et al. (2005). "Cannabis use in HIV for pain and other medical symptoms". *Journal of Pain and Symptom Management*. **29** (4): 358–367. [doi:10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2004.07.011](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2004.07.011). [PMID 15857739](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15857739)

1. Cohen KR, Salbu RL, Frank J, Israel I (2013). "Presentation and management of herpes zoster (shingles) in the geriatric population". *P T*. **38** (4): 217–27. [PMC 3684190](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3684190). [PMID 23785227](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23785227)

1. ["*Paresthesia* Definition and Origin"](http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/paresthesia). [dictionary.com](/source/Dictionary.com). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20150812080934/http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/paresthesia) 12 August 2015 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 1 August 2015. Paresthesia refers to a burning or prickling sensation that is usually felt in the hands, arms, legs, or feet, but can also occur in other parts of the body. The sensation, which happens without warning, is usually painless and described as tingling or numbness, skin crawling, or itching. Most people have experienced temporary paresthesia -- a feeling of "pins and needles" -- at some time in their lives when they have sat with legs crossed for too long, or fallen asleep with an arm crooked under their head. It happens when sustained pressure is placed on a nerve. The feeling quickly goes away once the pressure is relieved. Chronic paresthesia is often a symptom of an underlying neurological disease or traumatic nerve damage. Paresthesia can be caused by disorders affecting the central nervous system, such as stroke and transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes), multiple sclerosis, transverse myelitis, and encephalitis. A tumor or vascular lesion pressed up against the brain or spinal cord can also cause paresthesia. Nerve entrapment syndromes, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, can damage peripheral nerves and cause paresthesia accompanied by pain. Diagnostic evaluation is based on determining the underlying condition causing the paresthetic sensations. An individual's medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests are essential for the diagnosis. Physicians may order additional tests depending on the suspected cause of the paresthesia.

## Bibliography

- G. Cicarelli; G. Della Rocca; M. Amboni; C. Ciacci; G. Mazzacca; A. Filla; P. Barone (December 2003). ["Clinical and neurological abnormalities in adult celiac disease"](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10072-003-0181-4). *[Neurol Sci](/source/Neurological_Sciences_(journal))*. **24** (5): 311–317. [doi:10.1007/s10072-003-0181-4](https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-003-0181-4). [PMID 14716525](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14716525)

---
Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Paresthesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paresthesia) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paresthesia?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.