Tingling or burning in my feet: diabetes or low B12?
A sensation of pins and needles, burning, or numbness in the feet is commonly caused by peripheral nerve damage from long-standing diabetes or vitamin B12 deficiency (often linked to long-term metformin use). Senior Physician Dr. Vishnu Anjan Nareddy evaluates nerve health, checks B12 and HbA1c, and prescribes targeted therapies in Tirupati.
ఎప్పుడు వైద్య సహాయం తీసుకోవాలి
- Open wound, cut, or ulcer on the foot that has not healed or shows discharge
- Blackening or bluish discoloration of toes (gangrene / vascular block)
- Sudden loss of strength in foot or leg (foot drop)
- Severe unsteadiness and repeated falls while walking
- Burning or tingling sensation worse at night in bed
- Feeling like you are walking on cotton wool or wearing invisible socks
- Taking metformin for diabetes for more than 2 years without a B12 test
- Loss of feeling to hot or cold temperatures on the feet
- Normal sensation to light touch and pinprick on both feet
- No burning, numbness, or night cramps
- Intact skin with good pulses in the feet
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తరచుగా అడిగే ప్రశ్నలు
Why does metformin cause tingling in the feet?
Metformin can reduce intestinal absorption of vitamin B12 over time. Low B12 damages the protective sheath of nerves, producing numbness and tingling that mimics diabetic nerve damage.
Can tingling feet be reversed?
Yes, if caught early. Replacing vitamin B12 and achieving steady blood sugar control can repair damaged nerve fibers and relieve burning symptoms.
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