Tingling in the fingers, pain in the calf, stiffness in the hands, or short-term or temporary vision problems are symptoms we usually ignore. We treat them as the result of overwork, overtraining, or being in the same position for too long. Unfortunately, it happens that these are the first symptoms of serious diseases that can lead to permanent disability or even death. The only salvation is a quick reaction and correct diagnosis of the disease. Check which symptoms should not be underestimated.

Symptoms of diseases: Numbness in the arms, legs, or face

Симптоми захворювань: Оніміння рук, ніг або обличчя
Symptoms of diseases: Numbness in the arms, legs, or face

Sudden numbness in the limbs (especially on one side) or face is a common symptom of stroke. In most cases, this is caused by the formation of a clot in the cerebral artery (for example, due to atherosclerosis or hypertension), which prevents blood from entering the brain and causes hypoxia. Ischemic stroke is very serious and can be fatal.

The lack of a quick reaction most often ends with paresis or paralysis of the limbs, problems with speech and vision, and coordination of movements. Other symptoms of a stroke include severe headache, vomiting, dizziness, and slurred speech. Numbness in the limbs or face may initially show as tingling sensation, so many people ignore the first symptoms. Headache and vomiting are associated, for example, with food poisoning.

Symptoms of diseases: Joint stiffness

Morning stiffness in the joints of the hands or feet may be the first symptom of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a serious autoimmune disease that damages joints and leads to loss of mobility. RA initially affects the small joints of the hands and feet, which are often swollen. Symptoms are symmetrical on both sides and can be associated with fatigue, apathy, and lack of appetite. Symptoms are often overlooked and associated with overwork, but the disease begins to develop. The only salvation is fast diagnosis and treatment (at the latest within 3–6 months from the moment the first symptoms appear), which slows down the progression of the disease (RA is incurable).

Symptoms of diseases: Calf pain

Симптоми захворювань: Біль в ікрі
Symptoms of diseases: Calf pain

Severe pain and characteristic “tingling” in the calf, especially after prolonged immobility (for example, while traveling by plane or bus), can be a symptom of venous thrombosis. If it is accompanied by swelling and redness of the lower leg, and the pain increases with bending the foot, seek help as soon as possible. Do not massage the limbs, as this can lead to detachment of the clot and embolism of the pulmonary or cerebral arteries. Any such event can lead to physical loss or even death.

Symptoms of diseases: Tingling in the fingers

Tingling in the fingers, as well as frequent numbness in the hands and leg cramps, are the first symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease that causes damage to the nerve membranes. It is the most common cause of disability in young people (it usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 40). Other symptoms include abnormal sensations in the limbs, dizziness, vision problems, gait and balance problems, and chronic fatigue. The disease is incurable, but prompt treatment can achieve long periods of remission (dormant illness and symptom relief).