Table of contents:
- Symptoms of the pinched nerve that you need to pay attention to
- 1. The pain is like being stabbed by a sharp object or burning heat
- 2. Numbness or lack of sensitivity in certain areas of the body
- 3. Frequent tingling in the hands or feet
- 4. Muscles in certain areas of the body become weak
People who are obese, have recently been injured, or who have rheumatism in their hands are most prone to experiencing a pinched nerve. People whose jobs involve repetitive limb movements, for example construction workers, factory workers, office employees, and running athletes are also at risk of experiencing this condition. Although quite common, do not underestimate the pinched nerve. If the nerves are continuously allowed to be pressed by the surrounding parts (can be bone, cartilage, muscles, or tendons), over time your nerves can be permanently damaged. Apart from pain, of course, what other symptoms of a pinched nerve should you be aware of?
Symptoms of the pinched nerve that you need to pay attention to
The symptoms of a pinched nerve that a person experiences can be different from that of others. Likewise with the intensity of severity. However, leaving the symptoms alone can worsen the condition and cause nerve damage.
So, you need to pay attention to some of the following symptoms of a pinched nerve and go to a doctor immediately to get the right treatment.
1. The pain is like being stabbed by a sharp object or burning heat
The pain from a pinched nerve is different from the pain during sprains or sprains. When sprains or sprains, the pain is dull and only concentrated in the swollen joint.
However, the pinched nerve will usually cause discomfort at the end of the inflamed nerve. For example, if the pinched nerve is the sciatic nerve in the lower back, then the pain will appear in the leg.
The pain is also not stinging like an open wound, but a sharp pain like a prickling needle followed by a burning sensation.
2. Numbness or lack of sensitivity in certain areas of the body
Numbness or lack of sensitivity in certain areas of the body can be a sign of a pinched nerve. This condition is usually caused by pressure on the blood flow to the nerves. Large pressure will block blood flow, reduce oxygen levels in nerve cells so that the ability of nerves to feel is impaired.
3. Frequent tingling in the hands or feet
Tingling or paresthesia can happen to anyone. This condition is a sign that the nerves will be under great pressure, which blocks blood flow. It usually occurs when the legs or arms are flexed for a long time and will improve with the tingling movements.
However, paraesthesia only occurs when the nerves are under constant pressure. If it happens frequently, but it's unclear or unsure what causes it, this could be a sign of a pinched nerve.
4. Muscles in certain areas of the body become weak
Weakness in the muscles is a sign that one of your motor nerves is under a lot of pressure and is pinched. This condition signals to the body that the muscles connected to the nerves cannot work properly.
If this condition is accompanied by other symptoms such as coordination problems or difficulty breathing, it is most likely a sign of another disease, such as a heart attack, stroke, or multiple sclerosis.
Fortunately, the symptoms of a pinched nerve only occur for a short time and will return to normal once the pressure on the nerve is slowly reduced, for example by applying a compress.