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Waking Up With Pins And Needles

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nailit | 19:25 Mon 21st Dec 2015 | Body & Soul
16 Answers
For the past few weeks Ive been waking up in the night with pins and needles down my right arm. Actually fell asleep this afternoon on my sofa and still woke up with the same sensation. Never had it before, what could be the cause?
Thanks.
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Lying for too long in the same position.
Probably something to do with your neck - maybe a trapped nerve
Yep agree with ummmm, your probably going to sleep lying on your right arm.
Question Author
//Lying for too long in the same position.//
Im sleeping in the same position that I have done all my life ummm.
Ive occasionally had it in waking hours too and always in my right arm.
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Today I fell asleep on my back (on my sofa) so not even my usual sleeping position.
You ought to go to the doc's then, nailit. Or maybe sqad will see this post and give you advice.
you are getting older, nailit.....welcome to life.
If it is becoming a chronic condition then I agree, get checked up - there can be other causes.


More than likely a pinched nerve or similar.
from the NHS pages - have a gander and revert...dehydration perhaps?

Most people have temporary pins and needles from time to time. It happens when pressure is applied to a part of the body, which cuts off the blood supply to the nerves in that area. This prevents the nerves from sending important signals to the brain.

Putting weight on a body part (for example, by kneeling) or wearing tight shoes or socks can potentially cause pins and needles.

Temporary pins and needles can be eased by simply taking the pressure off the affected area. This will allow your blood supply to return, relieving the numbness or tingling sensation.

A common condition known as Raynaud's disease can also cause temporary pins and needles. Raynaud's disease affects the blood supply to certain areas of the body, such as the fingers and toes, and is usually triggered by cold temperatures, anxiety or stress.

Other common reasons for temporary pins and needles include dehydration and hyperventilating (breathing too quickly).

Long-lasting pins and needles

Sometimes, pins and needles can occur over a long period of time. It can be a sign of a wide range of health conditions, including diabetes, a condition in which there is too much glucose in the blood.
Persistent pins and needles can also occur after an injury, or can be caused by certain treatments such as chemotherapy (a powerful medication used to treat cancer).

Treatment for chronic pins and needles will depend on the cause. For example, if it is caused by diabetes, treatment will focus on controlling your blood glucose levels. This may involve having regular insulin injections and ensuring that you eat a healthy balanced diet.
It`s only on one side though so unlikely to be anything systemic
Many causes.......see your GP.
Question Author
Thanks for prompt replies all,
Yes, will see GP in new year if it persists. Not particularly worried about it but a bit of a nusiance keep waking up in the night and its a bit uncomfortable.
Thanks again for replies.
Question Author
Sqad, just curious here but how would a GP go about a diagnosis if theres many causes?
I suspect, Nailit, that a doctor would use 'the Sherlock Holmes method'. i.e. he'd start with a list in his mind of every possible cause and then try to eliminate as many as possible.

For example, as he'd know that diabetes can lead to sensory neuropathy, he'd test your blood sugar level. If a normal result was found, he'd then be able to rule out diabetes.

He'd also ask you questions about your lifestyle, to see if that highlighted anything that he ought to be concentrating on. For example, if you told him that you were a heavy drinker he'd consider alcoholic neuropathy as a possible diagnosis and then carry out the tests listed here:
https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000714.htm
(Many of the tests mentioned there might also be used to indicate, or rule out, other possible causes).
He knows your past history nailit and if anything is applicable, then that will need investigating. Physical examination and a barrage of blood tests maybe or if applicable an X-Ray of your cervical spine.
Question Author
Thank you Sqad and Buenchico.
Admitedly, I have been struggling recently with my alcohol intake again.
Thanks for replies.

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Waking Up With Pins And Needles

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