Sensory changes can take on many different forms, and they can be indicative of a wide variety of health problems. When someone experiences a sensory change, it usually suggests that there is something going on in their body that needs attention.
Here are just a few of the indications of sensory changes in various health problems:.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
MS is a disorder of the central nervous system that often causes sensory changes, including tingling, numbness, and burning sensations in the arms, legs, and face.
These symptoms are caused by damage to the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers and can also be indicative of other neurological disorders. Other symptoms of MS include blurred or double vision, difficulty walking, and fatigue.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that can cause widespread pain throughout the body. Many patients also experience sensory changes such as tingling, numbness, and burning sensations in the hands and feet.
These symptoms can also be accompanied by muscle stiffness, headaches, and fatigue.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that affects the blood sugar levels in the body and can lead to a variety of symptoms, including sensory changes.
People with diabetes may experience tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, which is known as diabetic neuropathy. In some cases, this can also lead to problems with coordination and balance. Other symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision.
Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked or reduced, causing brain cells to die.
Sensory changes are a common symptom of stroke, and may include numbness or weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and trouble with balance and coordination. Other symptoms of stroke may include sudden onset of severe headaches, blurred vision, and dizziness.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that occurs when there is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
This can lead to a variety of sensory changes, including tingling, numbness, and burning sensations in the hands, arms, feet, and legs. Other symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may include muscle weakness, difficulty walking, and a decreased ability to feel temperature changes.
Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause a range of symptoms, including sensory changes. People with lupus may experience tingling sensations, numbness, or burning sensations in their hands and feet.
These symptoms can be accompanied by fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes.
Migraines
Migraine headaches are a type of headache that can cause a range of sensory changes. Many people who experience migraines report seeing flashing lights, blurred vision, or blind spots before the headache starts. This is known as an aura.
Other sensory changes that can occur during a migraine include tingling or numbness in the face or extremities, and heightened sensitivity to light or sound.
Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury can cause a range of sensory changes, depending on the location and severity of the injury. People with spinal cord injuries may experience numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, or other parts of the body.
They may also have difficulty with muscle control or coordination, and may experience muscle weakness or paralysis.
Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)
CIPN is a common side effect of chemotherapy treatments. It can cause a range of sensory changes, including tingling, numbness, and burning sensations in the hands and feet.
In some cases, these symptoms can become severe and long-lasting, and can lead to a decrease in quality of life for cancer survivors.
HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS is a condition that can lead to a range of sensory changes. People with HIV/AIDS may experience tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, as well as other parts of the body.
This can be caused by a variety of factors, including medications, infections, and nerve damage. Other symptoms of HIV/AIDS may include fever, fatigue, and weight loss.