What Causes a Tingling Sensation in the Left Arm?
Paresthesia is defined as “subjective cutaneous sensations (e.g., cold, warmth, tingling, pressure, etc.) that are experienced spontaneously in the absence of stimulation”. Paresthesia is associated with abnormal burning or prickling sensations commonly felt in the hands, arms, legs and feet. It may also occur in other areas of the body and usually does not come with any pain. Numbness, buzzing or itching are also possible sensations that may be felt.
“Pins and needles” is a common phrase used by many persons when they feel an odd sensation in part of their body. In medical terms this is known as transient Paresthesia and it occurs when the nerves temporarily feel pressure. Continuous paresthesia may lead to a more severe condition and permanent numbness. Arm paresthesia refers to any transient or chronic nerve damage, entrapment or nerve disease in the arm or hand. It causes a tingling sensation in the left arm.
Causes of Tingling in Left Arm
Inflammation or Injuries
Nerve damage may result from injuries sustained to the arm as well as inflammation of the tissues can irritate the nerves. Paresthesia from injuries/inflammation will usually last until the arm heals, but there are cases when the damage is permanent
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
CTS is also referred to as median neuropathy at the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome is defined as “a medical condition in which the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, leading to paresthesias, numbness and muscle weakness in the hand” as a result of poor blood circulation
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune attack on spinal nerves causing diverse and varying neural problems.
Vitamin B12 Deficiencies and Malnutrition
Inadequate supplies of blood and nutrients in the body will impair the nerve cells where they are unable to carry out functions such as brain signals. As such conditions such as vitamin deficiencies, malnutrition and metabolic disorders will cause paresthesia.
Heart Attack
Arm and chest paresthesia are definite signs of an oncoming heart attack.
Stroke
A stroke or brain attack “occurs when one of the blood vessels that carry oxygen to the brain either becomes clogged or bursts”. This impairs the nerve cells that are located in the affected part of the brain, causing them to lose functionality; the body parts controlled by the damaged nerve cells will also be impaired. Persons that have survived a stroke will experience pain in the hands and feet, which is usually worsened by climate changes.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis is known as “an inflammatory disease that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function in the joints”. The disease usually affects both sides inflicted body parts, that is both knees, both hands. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause peripheral neuropathy (A group of symptoms caused by abnormalities in motor or sensory nerves) leading to paresthesia.
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