Tingling in the Legs: What Could it Be?

Everyone has experienced having a limb “fall asleep” after being in the same pinched position for too long. Sitting cross-legged or remaining seated on a cramped airplane for hours compresses your nerves, causing temporary tingling or numbness. The peculiar sensation is like having hundreds of pins and needles prick you up and down your skin.

While this is the simplest explanation, it’s far from the only one. If you’re sure prolonged sitting isn’t to blame, consider other possibilities of what causes tingling in the legs.

Anxiety and Leg Tingling

Stress and anxiety can manifest physically with wide-ranging symptoms. Many people experience tingling in their legs because of an anxiety attack or chronic stress. When you’re anxious, your body pumps adrenaline, making your nerves more sensitive. Panic attacks can also cause hyperventilation. As a result, you might experience tingling, especially in your legs and arms.

Diabetic Neuropathy and Tingly Legs

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage associated with diabetes. High blood sugar injures nerves throughout your body, including those in your legs and feet. Tingling is just one of the many symptoms you may experience. Because diabetes is a common cause of tingling sensations, managing your blood sugar is paramount.

Sciatica and Tingling in the Legs

Sciatica is characterized by a compressed and irritated sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body running from your lower back to your feet. Pain and discomfort from sciatica often manifest in the lower body, with tingling being a common symptom. This condition requires a medical diagnosis and professional treatment.

Vitamin B Deficiency and Tingling Sensations

Different B vitamins—including cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), and thiamine (vitamin B1)—affect nerve health. Insufficient vitamin B intake can lead to nerve damage and that odd tingling sensation.

Infections and Tingling in Your Legs

Certain infectious diseases, like Lyme disease, shingles, and HIV/AIDS, affect your nervous system. If you’re experiencing a tingling sensation accompanied by other signs of infection, consult your healthcare provider. You need an accurate diagnosis before you can begin treatment.

Venous Diseases and Tingling Legs

Your veins transport blood, so it stands to reason that venous diseases can affect circulation and cause a tingling sensation. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition involving a blood clot in a deep leg vein. Part of the clog may break away and travel to the lungs, leading to a potentially lethal pulmonary embolism. Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins often located in the lower legs. This condition disrupts blood flow, which can lead to numbness, pain, and tingling.

Make the Tingling Stop!

If you experience persistent or recurring tingling in your legs, it could signal a serious underlying condition. It’s important to seek a diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare professional.

That’s where the Arizona Vein and Laser Institute comes in. Since 2005, our dedicated surgeons have been helping patients with venous diseases to reclaim their quality of life. With our steadfast commitment to restoring leg vein health, you can trust us to combat vein-related causes of leg tingling. Don’t wait until the pins-and-needles sensation gets worse—contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our six Phoenix-area locations.