Numbness and Itching in Hands and Feet: Causes and Treatments

Q: Numbness and Itching in Hands and Feet: Causes and Treatments

Hello Ms. <br>Hsia： You mentioned that after the appearance of acute urticaria, the rash subsided but you still experience swelling, itching, and a prickling sensation in your hands and feet. <br>This could still be a manifestation of an allergic reaction causing vascular edema a

Numbness, itching, and tingling in the hands and feet?

Initially, there was an outbreak of acute urticaria with hives appearing all over the body, and patches on the palms and soles that were very itchy.
After taking medication prescribed by the hospital for urticaria, the hives subsided, but two days later, the palms and soles remained swollen and continued to itch and sting.
What could be the issue? Which specialty should be consulted, and what kind of treatment should be pursued? Thank you.

Xia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/25

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

Hello Ms.
Hsia: You mentioned that after the appearance of acute urticaria, the rash subsided but you still experience swelling, itching, and a prickling sensation in your hands and feet.
This could still be a manifestation of an allergic reaction causing vascular edema and inflammation of the subcutaneous tissue.
If the discomfort persists, it is recommended to visit a rheumatology and immunology clinic for a thorough evaluation and treatment by a physician.

Reply Date: 2020/10/25

More Info

Numbness and itching in the hands and feet can be distressing symptoms that may arise from various underlying conditions. Based on your description, it seems that you initially experienced acute urticaria (hives), which is characterized by itchy welts on the skin. After receiving treatment for the hives, the welts resolved, but you are now left with persistent swelling and sensations of itching and tingling in your hands and feet.
There are several potential causes for these lingering symptoms:
1. Post-Urticaria Symptoms: After an episode of hives, it is not uncommon for some individuals to experience residual symptoms such as swelling or itching. This can be due to the skin's sensitivity following an allergic reaction. The inflammatory response may take some time to fully subside, leading to ongoing discomfort.

2. Allergic Reactions: If you are still exposed to allergens or irritants, it could trigger a similar response, even if the hives have resolved. Common allergens include certain foods, medications, or environmental factors such as pollen or dust mites.

3. Nerve Involvement: The sensations of numbness and tingling could indicate nerve involvement, possibly due to compression or irritation. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy can lead to these symptoms, especially if there is a history of repetitive strain or underlying health issues like diabetes.

4. Circulatory Issues: Swelling in the extremities can also be related to circulatory problems. Conditions that affect blood flow, such as venous insufficiency or lymphedema, can lead to swelling and discomfort in the hands and feet.

5. Dermatological Conditions: Other skin conditions, such as eczema or contact dermatitis, could also be responsible for the itching and swelling. These conditions may arise from irritants or allergens that come into contact with the skin.

Given these possibilities, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. The following steps can help guide your treatment:
- Consultation with a Dermatologist: Since your symptoms began with an allergic reaction, a dermatologist can evaluate your skin and provide insights into whether you are experiencing a continuation of the allergic response or if another dermatological condition is present.

- Neurological Evaluation: If numbness and tingling persist, a consultation with a neurologist may be warranted to assess for any nerve-related issues. They may conduct tests such as nerve conduction studies to evaluate the function of your nerves.

- Allergy Testing: If an allergic reaction is suspected, allergy testing may help identify specific triggers that could be causing your symptoms. This can guide you in avoiding certain allergens in the future.

- Symptomatic Treatment: In the meantime, treatments such as antihistamines can help alleviate itching and swelling. Topical corticosteroids may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and discomfort in the affected areas.

- Lifestyle Modifications: Keeping a diary of your symptoms, including potential triggers, can be beneficial. Additionally, maintaining proper hydration, avoiding known allergens, and managing stress can help improve your overall skin health.

In conclusion, while the initial acute urticaria has resolved, the subsequent symptoms of numbness and itching in your hands and feet warrant further investigation. A multidisciplinary approach involving dermatology and neurology may provide the best pathway to diagnosis and treatment. It is essential to address these symptoms promptly to prevent any potential complications and improve your quality of life.

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