Most of us have experienced waking up in the middle of the night, only to realize that our arm or hand has gone numb or has “fallen asleep.” Sometimes, we also feel a prickling sensation, as if tiny “pins and needles” are piercing through our skin. The medical term for this is paresthesia, but why does this happen, and is it something that we should be concerned about?
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that this article is for informational purposes only. In order to get professional advice or a diagnosis, please see your doctor.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke says paresthesia can happen in various parts of the body. It occurs without warning, and it is normally triggered by sustained pressure on the nerves. Paresthesia is generally harmless when it is fleeting, but it could be a symptom of an underlying disease when experienced frequently.
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