Tingling is a common sensation, especially when sitting or sleeping in an uncomfortable position. While sometimes considered trivial, tingling can be an important indicator of our body's condition, particularly related to the nervous system. This article will discuss what actually happens in our bodies when we experience tingling.
What is Tingling?
Tingling is a sensation that usually occurs in parts of the body such as the hands, feet, or fingers. It can feel like pins and needles, burning, or numbness. In medical terms, tingling is known as "paresthesia."
Tingling often occurs after sitting or sleeping in a position that puts pressure on nerves or blood vessels, such as when your legs are lying down. In this situation, the tingling sensation usually disappears within a few seconds or minutes after the body position is corrected.
However, when tingling occurs for no apparent reason or lasts for a long time, it could be a sign of a disorder in the nervous system or blood circulation.
What Happens Physiologically When You Get Tingling?
When we feel tingling, there are several processes that occur in our body:
- Pressure on Nerves or Blood Vessels
When our body or body parts are under prolonged pressure, such as when we sit with our legs crossed or sleep in an uncomfortable position, that pressure can compress nerves or blood vessels. This blocks normal blood flow to those nerves. In response, the body sends signals to the brain that there is a problem in the compressed area. - Nerve Signal Transmission Disorders
The nerves in our body are responsible for sending signals to and from the brain. When nerves are compressed, the signal transmission process is disrupted. This results in disturbances in the perception of sensation, leading to tingling. This sensation is often described as a “pins and needles” or burning sensation. - Blood Flow Restoration
Once the pressure on the nerve or blood vessel is relieved, blood flow begins to return to normal. This return to normal blood flow can cause a stronger or more intense tingling sensation. This is a sign that the body is "healing" and restoring its normal function. - Brain Response to Nervous Disorders
When a nerve is compressed, the brain receives an "error" or disturbance signal. The brain then processes this signal, but because the disturbance is temporary, it interprets the sensation as tingling. When the pressure is relieved, the brain returns to receiving normal signals from the nerve, and the tingling sensation disappears.
When Does Tingling Become a Problem?
Although tingling is sometimes normal and can go away on its own, there are several conditions that need to be considered, especially if tingling occurs frequently or lasts a long time.
- Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Peripheral Neuropathy)
Nerve disorders such as peripheral neuropathy can cause persistent tingling. This occurs when the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are damaged, usually due to diabetes, alcoholism, or certain infections. - Poor Blood Circulation
If tingling occurs along with cold, pale, or bluish skin, this could indicate a problem with blood circulation, such as peripheral artery disease. - Certain Medical Conditions
Several medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, or even migraines, can cause tingling as a symptom. Tingling accompanied by other symptoms, such as weakness on one side of the body or difficulty speaking, should be checked by a doctor immediately. - Pressure on Nerves (E.g., Herniated Nucleus Pulposus)
In some cases, greater pressure on the nerve due to a herniated disc (a protruding spinal disc) or nerve compression can cause tingling that lasts longer and is more intense.
When Should You Call a Doctor?
Mild tingling that goes away after a few seconds or minutes is generally nothing to worry about. However, if the tingling lasts longer, occurs regularly, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, or numbness, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Your doctor may perform a physical examination and diagnostic tests such as blood tests, an MRI, or a CT scan to find out the cause of your tingling.
Conclusion
Tingling is a common, usually harmless sensation caused by pressure on nerves or blood vessels. However, if tingling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it could be a sign of a problem with the nervous system or blood circulation. It's important to recognize when tingling is normal and when medical attention is needed.
Don't hesitate to seek medical help if you feel something is wrong with your body. The sooner a problem is detected, the better your chances of getting the right treatment.
If you experience frequent or worrying tingling, consult a neurologist immediately for a proper diagnosis.
The article was written by Dr. Nysia Priscilla Angga Kusuma, Sp.N (Neurology Specialist Doctor at EMC Cibitung Hospital).