The accompanying symptoms
At the same time as the tingling sensation, other symptoms may also occur, depending on the cause. Carpal tunnel syndrome, as described above, can cause additional pain and, after a prolonged course, a reduction in the thumb ball muscles. In the case of a slipped disc, the symptoms are usually not limited to the hand but are also present on the forearm.
In addition to the discomfort, a reduction in strength and reduced reflexes can occur. In case of suddenly occurring sensitivity disorders with paralysis symptoms, one should immediately think of a stroke and consult a physician directly. Acute pain in the hand can occur due to a circulatory disorder, both arterial and venous.
An arterial circulatory disorder causes acute pain, paleness, movement disorders and sensitivity disorders. The hand becomes cold because the blood supply is not guaranteed. With a venous circulatory disorder, the return transport of blood is disturbed, so that the hand hurts, warms up and becomes swollen.
In case of a circulatory disorder, a doctor should be consulted immediately.Another cause of pain in the hand is Raynaud’s syndrome. This is a painful fading of the fingers in cold or stress. The fingers can then become blue and then red and warm.
The diagnosis
In order to make a diagnosis of sensory disorders in the hand, the description of the symptoms (anamnesis) and the physical examination are important in the first place. Testing of sensitivity, vibration perception, temperature perception, motor skills and reflexes is indispensable. If nerve damage is suspected, neurophysiological examinations are performed.
During these examinations, the nerve conduction velocity (NLG) is measured once and an electromyography (EMG) is performed to assess muscle damage. Based on these examinations, the type of damage can be defined and the possible causes narrowed down. If a herniated disc is suspected, imaging can be performed, most likely a magnetic resonance tomography (MRT).
The treatment
The treatment of tingling in the hand differs depending on the cause. In case of a herniated disc, one can symptomatically take painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol and perform physiotherapy. In very pronounced cases, surgical therapy may be considered.
In polyneuropathy, the treatment of the underlying disease is important and symptomatically special painkillers. In cases of circulatory disorders, immediate blood thinning and painkillers are important. In this case, too, surgical treatment is necessary in case of pronounced findings.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is treated with painkillers and a night splint, as explained above. If the symptoms persist or the course is severe, splitting the ligament may be considered. The splint for carpal tunnel syndrome is intended to stabilize the wrist during the night so that it does not break.
Thus the nerve at the wrist is protected. At the same time, a short-term intake of painkillers or corison can be helpful. There is also the possibility to place a cortisone injection in the carpal tunnel. Sometimes a splint for immobilization is also recommended after the operation.
