Published on: 4/28/2025
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.
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.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.