Persistent Pain and Numbness: A Guide to Neurological Concerns

Pressing on the finger causes temporary numbness that lasts for a period of time?

Hello, doctor.
About five days ago, I experienced pain when pressing on the bone above my right eyebrow, which occasionally persists as a dull ache.
Recently, the tenderness has decreased, but it still remains, and the continuous pain has become more pronounced over the last two days, especially when I bend my head down (the pain feels similar to pressing on a pimple, somewhat like a blockage).
This pain has been particularly noticeable around 5 or 6 PM for about 10 minutes.
Sometimes, I also experience intermittent sharp pains (the tip of my right eyebrow hurts, and I have felt pain at the tip of my left eyebrow during these episodes as well).
Last night, I felt a brief sharp pain in my scalp that radiated up to the back of my neck, which made me more concerned.
I found information stating that multiple sclerosis can cause trigeminal neuralgia, and I only realized today that I might be in trouble.
Recently, I have been very worried that I might have multiple sclerosis: my extremities occasionally experience sharp pains, and when I press on my hands or feet, I feel slight numbness.
Sometimes, my skin feels like it’s tingling for a brief moment (about 0.1 seconds, very brief) and occasionally, my skin feels tight and mildly painful.
I only noticed these symptoms after careful observation.
Yesterday, after being hit by a gust of warm wind, I felt a tingling sensation in my skin that extended down my legs for about 0.5 seconds.
Seven days ago, before going to bed, I felt tingling in the tips of my left fingers when pressed, but not when not pressed, and this lasted quite a while.
This morning, I experienced this again.
Fifteen days ago, I had extreme muscle soreness in my right hand, and eight days ago, just as I was about to fall asleep, I felt pain in my left toe along with twitching.
I have seen doctors more than 20 times this semester, but because the nerve conduction study takes half a month to schedule, I can only return home during the summer to do it, which means I have to wait another ten days.
I am very anxious and don’t know how to cope with this disease.
The two psychiatrists I saw recently told me to relax, but now my body is showing symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia, and I am really struggling to cope.
Every time I experience a new symptom, I fall back into fear.
I didn’t take my final exam today; instead, I stayed in my room thinking about my future, and tears fell as I imagined becoming disabled.
I have spent all the money I earned from my part-time job and don’t know what else to do.
How should I manage my body during these ten days? What can I do amidst this fear? Thank you for taking the time to read all of this.

xuesheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/19

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, you are overthinking.
It is currently panic disorder, not multiple sclerosis.
Occasional headaches are not necessarily trigeminal neuralgia.
Please stop scaring yourself; everything is fine.
Focus on what you need to do right now, like preparing for your exam.
The future is bright, so don't dwell on unpredictable events.
I also don't know what will happen tomorrow, so let's take care of the present and enjoy the moment.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/06/19

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of concerning symptoms, including persistent pain, numbness, and anxiety about your health. Your description suggests that you are dealing with significant distress, which can be exacerbated by the physical sensations you are experiencing. Let's break down your concerns and explore potential avenues for understanding and managing your symptoms.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Pain and Numbness: The pain you describe in the area above your right eyebrow, along with the occasional sharp pains and sensations of numbness in your extremities, can be indicative of several neurological issues. While you mentioned multiple sclerosis (MS) as a concern, it’s important to note that many conditions can cause similar symptoms, including migraines, tension headaches, or even nerve compression syndromes.

2. Trigeminal Neuralgia: You referenced trigeminal neuralgia, which is characterized by sudden, severe facial pain. This condition can sometimes be associated with MS, but it can also occur independently. The pain you feel when pressing on certain areas of your face could potentially align with this condition, but a thorough neurological evaluation is necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

3. Anxiety and Physical Symptoms: Anxiety can manifest physically in many ways, including muscle tension, pain, and heightened sensitivity to bodily sensations. It’s not uncommon for individuals with anxiety to become hyper-aware of their bodies, leading to a cycle of fear and discomfort. This can make existing pain feel more intense and can lead to new sensations, such as tingling or numbness.

Steps to Take
1. Consult a Neurologist: Given your symptoms and concerns, it would be prudent to see a neurologist. They can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a neurological examination and potentially imaging studies (like an MRI) or nerve conduction studies, to rule out conditions like MS or other neurological disorders.

2. Manage Anxiety: Since anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in managing anxiety and can help you develop coping strategies for dealing with your fears and physical symptoms.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Engaging in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall sense of well-being. These techniques can also help you manage pain by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.

4. Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting your symptoms, including when they occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers, can provide valuable information for your healthcare providers. This can help them identify patterns and make more informed decisions regarding your diagnosis and treatment.

5. Stay Informed but Cautious: While it’s natural to seek information online, be cautious about self-diagnosing based on internet research. Conditions like MS are complex and require professional evaluation for accurate diagnosis. Focus on gathering information from reputable medical sources and discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are understandably distressing, and it’s important to approach them with a comprehensive plan that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of your health. By consulting with a neurologist, managing your anxiety, and employing relaxation techniques, you can work towards alleviating your symptoms and reducing your fears. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are professionals who can help guide you through this challenging time.

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