Left Arm Tingling - Possible Causes for Tingling in Left Arm

Left arm tingling is something which is misinterpreted by many of us as some minor cramp that has occurred due to some wrong move on our part and hence, the burning and tingling sensation in left arm gets neglected easily. I am not saying that this cannot be one of the possible reasons for the tingling sensation in your left arm, I just want to get it to your attention that it may not ALWAYS be so simple. This could be one of the initial symptoms of something big. And if that is the case, I am sure you would want to work on it right now and avoid taking any risk that you may later regret.

Tingling Sensation in Left Arm and Hand

Tingling feeling, also commonly known as pins and needles sensation, is generally experienced due to abnormal nerve activities. Some describe it as prickling, burning or numbness sensation. Together, all the terms have a scientific term, "paresthesia". Arm paresthesia or tingling in the left arm generally occurs due to lack of proper functioning of the nerves of the left arm. Below given are numerous causes for tingling of the left arm and hand.

Possible Causes for Tingling in Left Arm and Hand

Following are some possible causes for tingling in left arm and hand.

• When the left arm or hand tingles, and at the same time if you experience pain in your jaw as well as chest, it is a major indication of an oncoming heart attack. You are advised to immediately rush to the doctor.
• Left arm tingling can also be a stroke symptom. Stroke is a medical condition in which the brain activity ceases due to insufficient supply of blood to the brain.
• Discomfort, numbness or tingling in left arm can be caused due to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). In CTS, the median nerve present at the wrist gets pressed which obstructs blood circulation.
• If excess stress or pressure is applied on the left arm, it may go numb or may cause tingling in the left arm. Also, fatigue and weakness can, sometimes, cause tingling in the arm and the arm may go limp for some time.
• If the surrounding tissues and muscles apply too much pressure on the nerve or in the case of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, you may experience a pinched nerve which causes tingling in left arm.
• Improper blood circulation may be one of the most common reasons for tingling sensation in arm. Generally, a tight outfit or piece of jewelry worn on the arm can prevent proper circulation in the arm. Also, if you sleep awkwardly with your arm in a position such that blood cannot flow through it sufficiently, you may experience the pins and needles sensation.
• Any disorder or malfunctioning related to the spine, like bulging disc, dislocated or ruptured vertebrae in the neck, nerve damage or nerve pinched in neck may affect the blood circulation of the arm. Improper blood flow in the arm will make a person feel the tingling sensation in the arm.
• Vascular problem caused due to any reason can cut off the circulation of fluids through the left arm which is an obvious reason for tingling, numbness and pain in the left arm and hand.

When to Call on the Doctor

• In case you feel weak, feel that you are losing consciousness, unable to see clearly or are feeling confused
• If the tingling occurs after some neck, head or back injury or due to a fall
• If you feel that you are losing control over your body parts, or cannot control bowel movements
• If your tingling increases when you walk or in this case when you move your arm
• If you feel dizzy, uneasy or notice that you are urinating more often

It is suggested that clenching and unclenching the fist several times or bending the elbow a few times, when the tingling sensation is experienced in the left arm, can get the sensation of the hand back to normal. As the exercise performed stimulates the blood flow of the arm, the circulation returns back to normal. Remember, left arm tingling can be an indication of something serious or it may be nothing at all. So, whenever you feel tingling in the left arm, go to the doctor and he may suggest you to perform some medical tests like Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT) scan or Electrocardiogram (ECG), depending on your symptoms. These tests will help in the further diagnosis.