Body Shaking: Possible Neurological Concerns Explained - Neurology

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Recently, I have been experiencing body tremors?


It has been 5 days since I started experiencing shaking.
Initially, I felt a bit dizzy, but gradually it felt like my body was swaying.
I perceive it as my center of gravity shifting back and forth, which is especially noticeable when I am sitting.
I even start to sway back and forth, and this swaying can last all day.
It is better when I first wake up, but it becomes more pronounced as the day goes on.
I initially consulted an otolaryngologist because I have a history of allergic nasal congestion, and the doctor suggested it might be due to hypoxia.
However, it has been several days, and the symptoms are becoming increasingly severe.
I have measured my resting heart rate and blood oxygen levels; my resting heart rate used to be between 60-70 bpm, but recently it has been around 90 bpm, while my blood oxygen levels remain around 97%.
I am wondering if this could be a problem with my cerebellum.
I would appreciate your assessment, thank you.

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/27

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology


Hello: You mentioned experiencing acute body tremors, which should first consider issues related to proprioception or metabolic disorders such as thyroid problems.
Generally speaking, the cerebellum is the center for balance, responsible for fine-tuning bodily equilibrium.
If symptoms occur in a younger population, they are often related to head trauma or medications.
I wonder if there is a family history of such conditions? If the symptoms persist, I recommend consulting a neurologist for evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/11/27

More Info


Understanding body shaking or tremors can be quite complex, as it may stem from various neurological, physiological, or psychological factors. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a sensation of body shaking or swaying, particularly when sitting, which has progressively worsened over the past five days. You also mentioned a history of dizziness and nasal congestion due to allergies, which may contribute to your current symptoms.

Firstly, it's important to consider the potential neurological implications of your symptoms. The cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance, could indeed be involved if you are experiencing a sensation of unsteadiness or swaying. However, it is crucial to note that many factors can influence balance and coordination, including inner ear issues, which are often evaluated by an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist). Since you have already consulted an ENT specialist, it would be beneficial to follow up on their recommendations and possibly seek further evaluation from a neurologist.

Your symptoms of feeling off-balance, particularly when sitting, could also be related to vestibular dysfunction. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a significant role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. If there is any dysfunction in this system, it could lead to sensations of dizziness or unsteadiness. Additionally, the fact that you have experienced nasal congestion could suggest that there might be some impact on your vestibular system due to pressure changes or inflammation.

Moreover, the increase in your resting heart rate from 60-70 beats per minute to 90 beats per minute could indicate a physiological response to stress or anxiety. Stress can exacerbate feelings of dizziness and unsteadiness, leading to a cycle where anxiety about your symptoms may worsen them. It is essential to consider whether psychological factors, such as anxiety or panic, could be contributing to your physical sensations. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including physical symptoms like shaking, increased heart rate, and feelings of dizziness.

In terms of management, it is advisable to monitor your symptoms closely and maintain a log of when they occur, their duration, and any associated factors (such as stress levels, sleep quality, and dietary habits). This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers in diagnosing the underlying cause of your symptoms. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or gentle yoga, may help alleviate anxiety and improve your overall sense of well-being.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation from a neurologist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess for any structural issues in the brain or cerebellum. Blood tests may also be conducted to rule out metabolic or endocrine disorders that could contribute to your symptoms.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may suggest a neurological concern, they could also be influenced by a combination of factors, including vestibular dysfunction, anxiety, and physiological responses to stress. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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