Palpitations, anxiety, and other symptoms?
In February, I experienced palpitations for the first time and went to the emergency room.
Blood tests showed no abnormalities, and follow-up with a cardiologist also indicated no issues.
In March, I suddenly had a sharp pain on the left side of my face, which improved after applying a warm compress and resting.
Subsequently, I have had intermittent abnormal sensations in my left face.
Last month, after dental treatment, I developed tinnitus, ear pain, and headaches.
Since then, I have also experienced intermittent palpitations, especially when my body or environment feels off, which makes me very anxious and nervous, leading to hand tremors.
Recently, I have noticed numbness in my hands and feet, and occasionally wake up at night due to muscle twitching.
Should I consult a neurologist or a psychiatrist for these symptoms?
Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/22
Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, Miss: You mentioned experiencing "sharp pain on the left side of your face," which may warrant consideration of trigeminal nerve dysfunction.
The diagnostic criteria for trigeminal neuralgia are as follows:
- At least three attacks
- Pain occurring in one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve
- At least three of the following characteristics of the pain:
- Lasting from a fraction of a second to two minutes, with periodic or paroxysmal episodes
- Severe intensity
- Electric shock-like, burning, or sharp pain
- More than three trigger points on the face
- No other obvious clinical neurological deficits
When there is a relevant medical history and symptoms that meet the above criteria, the physician will conduct appropriate examinations for diagnosis and provide suitable treatment.
I recommend that you consult a neurologist for discussion and treatment.
However, you also mentioned experiencing "intermittent palpitations and feeling very anxious when there are issues with your body or environment," which may indicate problems beyond physiological causes.
In this case, a psychosomatic medicine specialist can provide assistance.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health, peace, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares for you.
Reply Date: 2021/07/22
More Info
It sounds like you are experiencing a complex array of symptoms that are causing you significant distress. The combination of palpitations, anxiety, neurological symptoms, and physical discomfort can be quite overwhelming. It’s important to understand that these symptoms can be interconnected, and seeking professional help is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
First, let’s break down your symptoms. Palpitations, or the sensation of a racing or pounding heart, can often be linked to anxiety. When we experience anxiety, our body goes into a fight-or-flight response, which can cause an increase in heart rate. This can lead to feelings of panic, especially if you are already predisposed to anxiety. The fact that you have already consulted with a cardiologist and found no abnormalities is reassuring, but it does not eliminate the possibility that anxiety is contributing to your palpitations.
The left facial pain and the subsequent neurological symptoms, such as ear ringing (tinnitus) and headaches, are concerning and warrant further investigation. While these could be related to anxiety or stress, they could also indicate an underlying neurological condition. The intermittent nature of these symptoms suggests that they may not be purely psychological, especially since they have persisted over time and have been exacerbated by dental treatment.
The presence of hand tremors and numbness in your extremities, along with muscle twitching during sleep, could indicate a heightened state of anxiety or stress. These symptoms can sometimes manifest physically when the body is under significant emotional strain. However, they could also be signs of a neurological issue that needs to be addressed.
Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult both a neurologist and a mental health professional. A neurologist can help rule out any neurological disorders that may be causing your facial pain, ear symptoms, and other neurological signs. They may conduct imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, and perform neurological examinations to assess your condition.
On the other hand, a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help you address the anxiety and emotional distress you are experiencing. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety disorders and can help you develop coping strategies to manage your symptoms. In some cases, medication may also be prescribed to help alleviate anxiety and its physical manifestations.
It’s important to remember that you do not have to navigate this alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are professionals who can provide the support you need. Additionally, consider reaching out to friends or family members who can offer emotional support during this challenging time.
In summary, your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation from both a neurologist and a mental health professional. This dual approach will help ensure that any underlying medical issues are addressed while also providing you with the tools to manage your anxiety. Don’t hesitate to seek help; taking this step can lead you toward a better understanding of your health and a path to recovery.
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