Numbness and Headaches: When to Seek Medical Advice

Numbness in the limbs and headache?

Hello, Doctor Yeh.
Yesterday afternoon, after waking up from a nap, I felt soreness in my lower body, and I'm not sure if it was caused by exercising at the gym the day before.
About an hour later, I started experiencing a dull headache, so I took an EVE tablet that I bought in Japan.
After a while, I began to feel numbness all over my body, and there was also a tingling sensation in the back of my head, but my headache subsided.
Before going to bed, I took another EVE tablet.
I woke up twice during the night, sweating profusely, with persistent numbness, a headache, and dry mouth, constantly wanting to drink water.
By the second time I woke up, the numbness had improved somewhat, but the other symptoms remained the same.
When I got up the next day, the numbness was gone, and my mouth didn't feel very dry, but I still had a slight headache.
Several years ago, I experienced similar symptoms, but they seemed more severe at that time.
Initially, I felt cold and had chills, followed by numbness, weakness, and a headache.
After sleeping at home, my condition improved slightly, and I also tried acupuncture and took some medication, which helped a lot after a good sleep.
I would like to ask what these symptoms might be and which specialty I should consult for treatment.

Yan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/09/04

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! Based on your description, the symptoms are non-specific.
I recommend that you visit a nearby family medicine or general internal medicine clinic.
Please recall if you have traveled in the past two weeks and check if any family members or friends have experienced fever or similar symptoms.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2019/09/04

More Info

Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that include headaches, numbness, and a general feeling of malaise. These symptoms can be quite concerning, especially when they involve both neurological and systemic manifestations. Let's break down your symptoms and discuss when it is appropriate to seek medical advice.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Headaches: You mentioned experiencing a headache that started after a nap and was accompanied by a feeling of numbness. Headaches can arise from various causes, including tension, migraines, or even secondary causes related to other health issues.

2. Numbness: The sensation of numbness, particularly if it is widespread or affects specific areas (like the back of your head), can be indicative of neurological issues. Numbness can result from nerve compression, poor circulation, or even systemic conditions like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies.

3. Sweating and Dry Mouth: The excessive sweating and dry mouth you experienced could be related to anxiety, dehydration, or even a reaction to medication. It's important to consider if these symptoms are linked to your overall health or if they are side effects of the medications you took.

4. Previous Episodes: You mentioned having similar symptoms in the past, which resolved after rest and treatment. This history is crucial as it may suggest a recurring issue that could be related to your lifestyle, stress levels, or underlying health conditions.

When to Seek Medical Advice
Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially if:
- Symptoms Persist or Worsen: If your headaches or numbness continue or worsen, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional.

- New Symptoms Develop: If you experience additional symptoms such as vision changes, difficulty speaking, weakness in limbs, or severe dizziness, you should seek immediate medical attention.

- History of Neurological Issues: Given your previous episodes of similar symptoms, it would be prudent to discuss this with a neurologist who can evaluate your condition more thoroughly.

Recommended Medical Specialties
1. Neurology: A neurologist specializes in disorders of the nervous system, including headaches, numbness, and other neurological symptoms. They can perform necessary tests such as MRI or CT scans to rule out serious conditions.

2. Internal Medicine: An internist can help assess your overall health and manage any systemic issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.

3. Primary Care Physician: If you have a primary care doctor, they can be a good starting point. They can evaluate your symptoms, provide initial treatment, and refer you to a specialist if necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist, given the combination of headaches and numbness. It is essential to address these symptoms promptly to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Additionally, consider lifestyle factors such as stress, hydration, and sleep patterns, as these can significantly impact your overall health and may contribute to your symptoms. Always prioritize your health and seek medical advice when in doubt.

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