Tightness and Numbness: Neurological Concerns Explained

Feeling a tightness or pressure in the head?

Hello Doctor: Over the past three to four days, I have been experiencing a tight and pressure-like sensation in my head, along with numbness in my hands and feet.
The numbness occurs in both sides, but not simultaneously.
It usually happens when I am at rest.
Sometimes, I feel like my whole body is vibrating.
Yesterday, I experienced motion sickness, but even after returning home, I still felt very uncomfortable.
This morning was okay, but in the afternoon, I started to feel discomfort in my throat, pain in my back and the back of my neck, and I felt a bit uneasy when I looked up.
In the evening, I began to experience involuntary body movements, and after an earthquake, the symptoms worsened.
I also have neck and back pain, along with some nausea and dizziness.
Later, I took a Tylenol, which helped a bit.
Doctor, could you please tell me what these issues might be? I have never experienced these symptoms before.

www, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/07

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

Please visit a neurology outpatient clinic; a detailed physical examination is necessary for diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2021/07/07

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of concerning symptoms, including tightness in your head, numbness in your hands and feet, discomfort in your throat, neck pain, and feelings of dizziness. These symptoms can be quite distressing, especially when they appear suddenly and without a clear cause.
From a neurological perspective, the symptoms you describe could be indicative of several potential issues. The tightness and numbness in your extremities may suggest a neurological condition, such as peripheral neuropathy, which can occur due to various factors including stress, anxiety, or even vitamin deficiencies. The sensation of your body shaking or vibrating could also be related to anxiety or panic attacks, which can manifest physically in various ways.

The discomfort in your neck and back, along with the feeling of nausea and dizziness, could be related to muscle tension or strain, particularly if you have been under stress or have changed your physical activity levels recently. Stress can lead to muscle tightness, particularly in the neck and shoulders, which can contribute to headaches and discomfort.
It's also important to consider the possibility of a more serious underlying condition, such as a cervical spine issue or a neurological disorder. Conditions like multiple sclerosis or cervical spondylosis can present with similar symptoms, but these are less common and would typically be accompanied by other specific signs.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for several days and are affecting your daily life, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, including a neurological examination and possibly imaging studies (like an MRI of the cervical spine), may be necessary to rule out any serious conditions.
In the meantime, managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness meditation, may help alleviate some of your symptoms. Staying hydrated and ensuring you are getting adequate nutrition, including essential vitamins and minerals, can also support your overall health.

If you find that your symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical care. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

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