Nerve Sensations: When to Seek Medical Advice

Please ask your question?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you a few questions.
I visited a place today where an accident recently occurred, and I became quite anxious.
After taking a hot shower and then washing my hands with cold water, I noticed a slight tingling sensation on a small area of the back of my hand and some of the joints in my fingers.
I looked it up and found that it could be related to a stroke or cervical spine issues, but I also read that excessive anxiety can cause similar symptoms.
After relaxing and taking deep breaths, the sensation gradually subsided.
I would like to know if this is a serious issue.
I am planning to see a neurologist on Wednesday, but I wonder if I am overreacting or if there are specific symptoms that would indicate a more serious problem.
Thank you.

Oo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/06

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the condition you mentioned is primarily caused by sudden exposure to cold water, leading to vasoconstriction and nerve tingling.
This is not a stroke or a cervical spine issue; it is a normal physiological response.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/03/06

More Info

When it comes to understanding nerve sensations and when to seek medical advice, it's essential to recognize the various factors that can contribute to symptoms like tingling, numbness, or a feeling of "pins and needles." Your recent experience of feeling a tingling sensation in your fingers and hand after a stressful event and exposure to temperature changes raises some important considerations.

Firstly, it's crucial to understand that nerve sensations can be influenced by a variety of factors, including anxiety, physical stress, and environmental changes. In your case, the combination of a stressful incident and the sudden change in temperature (from hot to cold water) may have contributed to the tingling sensation you experienced. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation and muscle tension, which can, in turn, affect nerve function and lead to sensations of numbness or tingling. This is often referred to as "anxiety-induced paresthesia."
However, while anxiety and temporary nerve sensations are common and often benign, it is essential to be vigilant about other potential causes. Tingling or numbness can also be indicative of more serious conditions, such as nerve compression (for example, from a herniated disc in the cervical spine), peripheral neuropathy, or even transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), which are often precursors to strokes. Given that you mentioned concerns about stroke, it is wise to be cautious.

In your situation, seeking medical advice from a neurologist is a prudent decision. A neurologist can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, a detailed medical history, and possibly diagnostic tests such as nerve conduction studies or imaging (like MRI) to rule out any serious underlying conditions. These tests can help determine if there is any nerve damage or compression, or if the symptoms are purely functional and related to anxiety or stress.

As for your concerns about whether you are overreacting, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to neurological symptoms. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention:
1. Sudden onset of weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body.

2. Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.

3. Severe headache with no known cause.

4. Loss of coordination or balance.

5. Changes in vision.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to anxiety or temporary nerve irritation, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions. Your decision to see a neurologist is a responsible one, and they will be able to provide you with the appropriate guidance and reassurance. Remember, taking care of your mental and physical health is paramount, and addressing these concerns early can lead to better outcomes.

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