paresthesia /per′esthē″zhə/ [Gk, para + erethizein, to excite] , any subjective sensation, experienced as numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling. Paresthesias often fluctuate according to such influences as posture, activity, rest, edema, congestion, or underlying disease. When experienced in the extremities, it is sometimes identified as acroparesthesia. Also spelled paraesthesia. See also acanthesia.
