What is the Difference Between Paresthesia and Paralysis?

Paresthesia and paralysis are both conditions caused by nerve damage, but they differ in the nature and severity of the symptoms they cause. Here are the key differences between the two:

Paresthesia:

• Refers to a burning, prickling, tingling, or numb sensation, usually felt in the hands, arms, legs, or feet.
• Caused by pressure on nerves, radiculopathy, or poor blood circulation.
• Does not involve a loss of movement or motor response.
• Diagnosed through history and medical examination, neurological examination.
• Often temporary and can be relieved by removing the pressure on the nerve.

Paralysis:

• Refers to the loss of the ability to move some or all parts of the body.
• Can be caused by stroke, trauma, or damage to the nerve by injury.
• Results in a loss of movement and coordination.
• Diagnosed through CT scans, MRI, and X-rays.
• May require surgery, medication, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy to regain strength and movement in the muscles.

In summary, paresthesia is characterized by abnormal sensations such as tingling, numbness, or burning, while paralysis involves the loss of movement and coordination. Continued nerve damage in paresthesia can lead to numbness or paralysis.

Comparative Table: Paresthesia vs Paralysis

Paresthesia and paralysis are two different conditions that occur due to nerve damage. Here is a table summarizing the differences between them:

Paresthesia is an uncomfortable feeling of burning, itching, tingling, or pins and needles sensation in any of the limbs due to nerve compression. Paralysis is the loss of function of the nerves either partially or completely, affecting both sensory and motor nerves of the affected area.