Unusual Cold Sensations and Fatigue: A Neurological Perspective - Neurology

Share to:

Coolness in the back of the head. Fatigue?


I woke up feeling fatigued this morning, but I am currently on my menstrual period, so I'm not sure if that is related.
Then tonight, while lying in bed, I suddenly felt a cool sensation at the back of my head, which went away within a minute or two, but I've never experienced that before, so I'm a bit concerned.
Additionally, my feet have been feeling cool almost all the time, even though I always wear socks.
Why do they still feel cold?

Xiao Zhu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/09

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology


Hello, Miss Xiaozhu:
You mentioned feeling a sudden coolness at the back of your head and that your feet have been consistently cool.
These may be two separate issues.
The cool sensation at the back of your head could indicate an abnormality in the peripheral nerves, such as nerve compression leading to sensory disturbances.
The coolness in your feet may suggest that nerve issues are causing peripheral vasoconstriction, resulting in a drop in temperature.
I recommend consulting a neurologist to discuss further examination and treatment options.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to reach out if you have any related questions! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2022/02/09

More Info


Feeling unusual cold sensations and fatigue can be concerning, especially when these symptoms are new or different from your usual experience. From a neurological perspective, there are several factors to consider that could explain your symptoms.

Firstly, fatigue during your menstrual cycle is quite common. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to changes in energy levels, mood, and even physical sensations. Many women report feeling more fatigued or experiencing discomfort during their periods due to hormonal changes, such as fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone. These hormones can affect neurotransmitter levels in the brain, which may contribute to feelings of tiredness or lethargy.

The sensation of coldness in the back of your head, although transient, can be attributed to several factors. It could be related to tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, which can sometimes lead to referred sensations in the head. Stress and anxiety can also manifest physically, causing unusual sensations, including feelings of coldness or tingling. If this sensation persists or is accompanied by other neurological symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Regarding the persistent cold sensation in your feet, this could be due to several reasons. One common cause is poor circulation, which can lead to a feeling of coldness in the extremities. Conditions such as peripheral artery disease or even diabetes can affect blood flow to the feet, making them feel cold despite wearing socks. Additionally, nerve issues, such as peripheral neuropathy, can cause abnormal sensations in the feet, including coldness, tingling, or numbness. This is often seen in conditions like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or other neurological disorders.

Another possibility is that your body is experiencing a heightened sensitivity to temperature changes. This can occur due to anxiety or stress, which can make you more aware of bodily sensations. If you are feeling anxious about your health, this could amplify your perception of coldness or fatigue.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to normal physiological changes associated with your menstrual cycle, they could also indicate underlying issues that may require further investigation. If the sensations of coldness persist or worsen, or if you experience additional symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or changes in coordination, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including a neurological examination and possibly blood tests, to rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.
In the meantime, ensure you are staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing stress levels, as these factors can significantly impact your overall well-being. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Cold Weather Headaches: Causes and Treatments

Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about a symptom that has been persistent for a long time. Whenever there is a sudden drop in temperature, I experience pain in the right occipital region of my head (the frequency on the right side is significantly greater than on the left s...


Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, based on your description, cervical myofascial pain syndrome should be considered first. Symptoms may include pain, discomfort, muscle stiffness, or a heavy sensation. These symptoms tend to worsen in colder weather and can be alleviated with stretching activities, often r...

[Read More] Understanding Cold Weather Headaches: Causes and Treatments


Understanding Persistent Fatigue and Heat Sensation After Napping

Hello, doctor... A week ago, after waking up from a nap, I started feeling a warm sensation in my head and overall weakness, feeling very fatigued. These symptoms have persisted until now, and I feel like I have a fever, but my body temperature is normal at 36.6-36.8 degrees Cels...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, based on your description, you were completely normal until a week ago when you started experiencing fatigue and a feeling of fever. It is highly suspected that you may have an infection, especially since the flu is currently prevalent. The common symptoms of the flu inclu...

[Read More] Understanding Persistent Fatigue and Heat Sensation After Napping


Sudden Dizziness and Cold Sensations: Understanding Neurological Symptoms

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing sudden episodes of dizziness and visual disturbances at work, accompanied by a feeling of coolness in my chest and hands, sweating due to anxiety, lasting for several minutes. What could be causing these symptoms?


Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, based on your description, it may be necessary to consider issues related to the autonomic nervous system, specifically excessive activation of the sympathetic nervous system. Such symptoms may become more pronounced due to insufficient rest or dehydration. Generally, the ...

[Read More] Sudden Dizziness and Cold Sensations: Understanding Neurological Symptoms


Post-Cold Numbness: Understanding Neurological Symptoms After Illness

Hello Doctor, After experiencing a mild fever due to a cold on February 16, I have been feeling numbness in my arms and legs. Sometimes, when I change my body position, I feel a tingling sensation from my back to the back of my head, especially when lying down. Additionally, my...


Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello Mr. Yang, You mentioned that "there is a slight stabbing pain when the left side of my head is pressed or rubbed while sleeping, and my left palm also has some tingling sensations." Based on your description, we may need to consider cervical nerve root compressio...

[Read More] Post-Cold Numbness: Understanding Neurological Symptoms After Illness


Related FAQ

Tingling Sensation

(Neurology)

Eeg

(Neurology)

Insomnia

(Neurology)

Psychoneurosis

(Neurology)

Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction

(Neurology)

Breathing

(Neurology)

Dizziness

(Neurology)

Foot Numbness

(Neurology)

Fainting

(Neurology)

Involuntary Body Movements

(Neurology)