Sensory symptoms such as tingling or numbness in children
Summary points from NICE guidance relating to sensory symptoms such as tingling or numbness in children are:
Tingling together with other symptoms
- refer urgently children who have tingling accompanied by other peripheral nervous system symptoms such as weakness, bladder dysfunction or bowel dysfunction for neurological assessment
- be aware that tingling in children may be the first symptom of an acute polyneuropathy (Guillain-Barre syndrome) or other neuro-inflammatory conditions. If the child has features suggesting motor impairment, refer urgently for neurological assessment
Isolated tingling, altered sensation or paraesthesia
- refer children with isolated tingling, altered sensation or paraesthesia for neurological assessment if the symptoms are episodic and are not associated with compression of a nerve
Temporary tingling caused by nerve compression or hyperventilation
- do not routinely refer children for neurological assessment of temporary tingling or numbness if there is a clear history of the symptom being triggered by activities known to cause nerve compression, such as carrying a heavy backpack or sitting with crossed legs
- be aware that in children, hyperventilation is a common cause of transient tingling in the limbs
Reference: