What is the body's response to a current of 5 mA or less?

The body's response to a current of 5 mA or less primarily includes sensations such as tingling. At this lower range of electrical current, individuals may experience a mild and often innocuous reaction. The physiological mechanism behind this involves the activation of sensory nerves which may lead to a tingling or prickling sensation commonly referred to as "paresthesia."

This response is generally harmless, and many people might describe it as similar to the feeling of a light static shock. Higher currents typically lead to more severe responses, such as pain or muscle contractions, as they can stimulate motor nerves and disrupt normal bodily functions. Tissues such as the heart may also be affected by much stronger currents, leading to critical conditions like heart fibrillation or respiratory failure, but these occur at levels well above 5 mA. Therefore, the reaction of tingling at currents of 5 mA or lower is indicative of the body's ability to sense and react to electrical stimuli without immediate danger.