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Published on: 4/28/2025

Why Do I Feel Prickly All over My Body and What Steps Should I Take?

Feeling prickly all over your body can be a sign that your nerves are extra sensitive, a condition called hyperesthesia, or it might be due to other issues like vitamin B12 deficiency or electrolyte imbalances. It's best to talk with a healthcare provider for the right tests and care.

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Explanation

When you feel prickly all over, it means your skin might be extra sensitive. This is called hyperesthesia, and sometimes it can happen with conditions that affect your nerves. Sometimes low levels of vitamin B12, which is important for nerve health, may make you feel this way. Also, changes in the balance of minerals in your blood (called electrolytes) can cause these prickly sensations. Another reason could be notalgia paresthetica, a specific type of nerve irritation that causes an itchy or prickly feeling, often on the back. The best step to take is to see a doctor. They can ask you questions about how you feel, check your vitamin and electrolyte levels, and look at your overall health. They might suggest simple tests to see if your nerves are working well. Following their advice can help you get the right treatment or guidance. Remember, getting checked by a healthcare professional will help find the cause of your prickly feelings and show you the best way to feel better.

(References)

  • Maldonado RJ, De Jesus O. Hyperesthesia. [Updated 2023 Aug 23]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

  • Robbins BA, Rayi A, Ferrer-Bruker SJ. Notalgia Paresthetica. [Updated 2023 Jun 5]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

  • Beissner F. Therapeutic Sensations: A New Unifying Concept. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2020 Aug 6;2020:7630190. doi: 10.1155/2020/7630190. PMID: 32831879; PMCID: PMC7428881.

  • Baik HW, Russell RM. Vitamin B12 deficiency in the elderly. Annu Rev Nutr. 1999;19:357-77. doi: 10.1146/annurev.nutr.19.1.357. PMID: 10448529.

  • Weiss-Guillet EM, Takala J, Jakob SM. Diagnosis and management of electrolyte emergencies. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2003 Dec;17(4):623-51. doi: 10.1016/s1521-690x(03)00056-3. PMID: 14687593.

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