What Causes Pins And Needles?

Poor Diet

Chronic paresthesia can occur as a result of an individual's poor diet and the resulting malnutrition. The body requires sufficient levels of vitamins B12, B9, B6, E, thiamine, copper, and niacin for the nerves to function properly. A poor and unbalanced diet often results in one or more deficiencies of these nutrients. Without vitamin B1 or thiamine, the body is unable to sufficiently maintain the protective myelin sheath around the nerves that allow the smooth transmission of impulses. A shortage of vitamin B12 or cobalamin inhibits the healthy production of the protective myelin sheath around the nerves. Vitamin E and copper function to neutralize free radicals that are known to react with oxygen and produce toxic byproducts that cause damage to nerve fibers. Numerous metabolic processes and reactions depend on an adequate supply of vitamin B6 or pyridoxine and vitamin B3 or niacin. The nerves do not receive any cellular energy when there is an interruption in metabolic processes. Individuals deficient in folate or vitamin B9 have difficulty with myelin sheath production. Any of these nutrient deficiencies that result from a poor diet can cause nerve damage and impulse interruption that results in paresthesia.

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Neuritis

Neuritis refers to nerve inflammation, and the condition can cause a sensation of pins and needles, weakness, numbness, pain, and muscle wasting. Peripheral neuritis (neuritis that affects the peripheral nerves) and optic neuritis (neuritis of the optic nerve) are the most frequently reported types of neuritis. Others include brachial neuritis, ulnar neuritis, vestibular neuritis, and cranial neuritis. Neuritis tends to be more common in women, and patients who are fifty-five and older are most likely to be diagnosed. Physical injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome may lead to neuritis, and the condition may develop following chemotherapy, radiation, or poisoning with heavy metals. Vitamin B12 deficiencies may trigger neuritis, and it could occur as a result of infections, including chickenpox, syphilis, and herpes simplex. Treatment options for neuritis focus on pain relief and may include topical treatments, oral medications, or injections.

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