I feel pins and needles in my hands

Temporary tingling can occur after sleeping on an arm, leaning on a wrist or holding one position. Changing position usually allows sensation to return. Repeated or lasting symptoms may reflect Peripheral Neuropathy, which can affect sensation in the hands and feet. Type 2 Diabetes is one possible underlying condition, while Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Hypothyroidism can also affect nerves.

Anxiety or Panic Disorder may cause tingling when rapid breathing changes carbon dioxide levels, often with a racing heart or tight chest. The pattern matters: symptoms confined to one hand, especially with weakness or speech trouble, need urgent assessment for Stroke or Transient Ischaemic Attack.

Change position, gently move your fingers and wrists, and protect numb skin from hot surfaces or cuts. Notice whether symptoms affect one or both hands, which fingers are involved, and whether they follow activity, sleep, stress or a new medicine.

Book an appointment if tingling recurs, spreads, causes weakness, disturbs sleep or affects grip. A clinician may review your medicines, examine sensation and strength, and consider blood tests based on the pattern.

Call emergency services if tingling starts suddenly with facial drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking, severe imbalance, vision loss or a severe headache. Seek urgent care after a significant injury or when numbness is rapidly worsening or accompanied by loss of bladder control.

Ask whether the distribution suggests nerve compression, a metabolic cause or a medication effect. Share its duration, triggers, symmetry, associated weakness, balance changes, pain and any history of diabetes or thyroid problems.