What is the Difference Between Numbness and Tingling?

Numbness and tingling are types of temporary paresthesia, which are abnormal sensations that can occur anywhere in the body, often in the fingers, hands, feet, arms, or legs. They are usually caused by problems with the nervous or circulatory systems. The main difference between numbness and tingling lies in the sensations they cause:

Numbness: This is a reduced or absent perception of sensation in a part of the body. It can occur after sitting or standing in a particular position for a long time, or as a result of nerve compression or injury.
Tingling: This is a prickling sensation, often described as a "pins and needles" feeling. It can be caused by pressure on nerves, neuropathy, or other conditions affecting the nervous system.

Some common causes of numbness and tingling include:

Sitting or standing in the same position for a long time
Injuring a nerve
Pressure on the nerves of the spine
Transient ischemic attack (TIA) or "mini-stroke"
Underactive thyroid
Raynaud phenomenon (narrowing of the blood vessels, usually in the hands and feet)

Treatment for numbness and tingling depends on the cause. In some cases, adjusting one's position or activity can alleviate the sensations. However, if the symptoms are persistent or severe, it may be a sign of a more serious neurological condition or nerve damage, and a medical professional should be consulted.