The doctor will want to know more about the length of the periods of numbness/pins and needles. Is there any obvious cause? Have you started new medication? Do you drink a lot of alcohol? Do you have diabetes? These details will help the doctor to make a diagnosis. Your doctor will examine you. They will check your heart, including your blood pressure and pulses in your wrists and feet. Your nervous system will be checked and you may be asked whether you can feel a pinprick or other sensations in your limbs. You may be asked to have a blood test to check for diabetes, anaemia and vitamin B12 levels. Further tests of your heart and nervous system may be necessary.
