Persistent Body Rocking: When to Seek Medical Attention

The body is shaking uncontrollably?

Hello! I have been experiencing this condition for about a month now, occurring almost daily (over 95% of the time).
The duration varies, but the frequency has increased in the past week, with episodes lasting longer, especially noticeable at night.
The sensation feels like someone is shaking me back and forth, side to side, rather than a spinning sensation.
Sometimes, closing my eyes makes the swaying feeling more pronounced (recently, it has often felt like circular swaying).
This swaying does not prevent me from doing anything, but it makes it difficult to concentrate because while I am trying to focus on a task, I feel the swaying.
When I get distracted, the swaying seems to intensify! At times, I can still talk, but internally, I feel continuously shaken.
Lying down sometimes feels similar to motion sickness, making me want to vomit, and occasionally accompanied by slight cold sweats.
The duration of each episode varies; it might sway for a circle or two and then stop.
It can continue until I finish what I am doing or suddenly immerse myself in another task, which seems to help me forget the swaying sensation.
However, when I need to address basic bodily needs, it returns.
(Changing positions sometimes helps, but not always.) There are also instances of headaches, feeling as if someone is pressing a pen from inside my brain against my skull.
I would like to ask whether this condition is more likely caused by weather or stress, or if it is something that requires prompt medical attention.
Thank you!

Shi Renlei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/14

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello,
The symptoms you mentioned may suggest tension-type headache.
Tension-type headache is caused by muscle tightness in the head.
Common manifestations include tight, constricting pain in the forehead and temples, similar to wearing a tight headband.
Since it is caused by muscle fatigue, it typically begins in the afternoon and peaks in the evening or at night.
Taking a hot shower, getting a massage, or sleeping can provide relief.
Lack of sleep, stress, or anxiety can exacerbate the severity of the headache.
Regarding the dizziness you mentioned, conditions such as anemia, autonomic dysfunction, or inner ear imbalance may contribute to your symptoms.
It is important to first rule out anemia or dehydration, which can lead to insufficient cerebral circulation.
Symptoms can be improved by replenishing fluids and electrolytes.
In addition to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), blood tests can assist in evaluating dizziness and headaches.
Blood tests may include screening for potential complications such as anemia, hyperthyroidism/hypothyroidism, diabetes, recurrent vestibular neuritis, autoimmune diseases, neurosyphilis, and central nervous system disorders.
I recommend that you visit a neurology outpatient clinic for further evaluation.
However, due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, it is advisable to wait until the situation stabilizes before going to the hospital for examination.
Please ensure to practice self-protection, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to new preventive measures before and after your medical visit.
Thank you for your inquiry.
If you have further questions, feel free to discuss them! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2021/06/14

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, characterized by a persistent sensation of rocking or swaying, can be quite distressing and may significantly impact your daily life. Given the duration of approximately one month and the frequency of these sensations, it is essential to consider several potential underlying causes and when to seek medical attention.

Firstly, the sensation of rocking or swaying can be associated with various conditions, including vestibular disorders, anxiety, migraines, or even certain neurological conditions. The fact that you mentioned the sensation is more pronounced when you close your eyes or when you are engaged in specific activities suggests that it may be related to your vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Conditions such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular neuritis could be contributing factors.

Moreover, the accompanying symptoms of nausea, cold sweats, and headaches further complicate the picture. These could indicate that your body is reacting to stress or anxiety, which can exacerbate sensations of dizziness or imbalance. Stress and anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which may cause feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness. Additionally, if you have a history of migraines, it is possible that these symptoms could be a form of vestibular migraine, where dizziness and headache occur together.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is crucial to monitor their progression. If the sensations worsen, become more frequent, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as visual disturbances, significant headaches, or changes in consciousness, it is imperative to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, balance tests, and possibly imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

In terms of immediate steps you can take, consider keeping a symptom diary to track when the sensations occur, their duration, and any associated activities or stressors. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness, may help alleviate some of the anxiety that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to stress or anxiety, the persistence and nature of the sensations warrant a thorough medical evaluation to rule out any serious conditions. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention, especially if your symptoms change or worsen. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and help you regain your quality of life.

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