Unexplained Shaking Sensations: When to See Your Family Doctor

Q: Unexplained Shaking Sensations: When to See Your Family Doctor

Hello, Miss Anonymous： The intermittent and pronounced sensation of swaying that you described, which feels somewhat like being on a boat and is not accompanied by significant headaches, is likely caused by a disturbance in the inner ear balance system. <br>It is recommended that

Frequent sensation of shaking?

Hello Doctor: A few weeks ago, I started experiencing noticeable sensations of swaying (especially when sitting, walking is better).
It feels somewhat like being on a boat, and later this sensation changed to feeling like an "earthquake," and then returned to the original swaying feeling like being on a boat.
P.S.
I had this "boat-like feeling" before the recent midnight earthquake, so it should not be related to the recent tremors.
Should I first see a family physician for this issue? What could be potential causes for this phenomenon? I'm a bit anxious about going to the hospital for a check-up, fearing there might be a serious underlying issue.
Recently, I suddenly thought that this condition might be related to masturbation.
I’ve heard that masturbation can sometimes cause dizziness.
On one hand, I feel some things should be proactively mentioned to the doctor to facilitate a quick and accurate assessment, but I’m hesitant to bring up this possible factor unless the doctor asks me directly.
After all, it’s quite embarrassing, and I worry that the doctor might have a negative impression of me.
But I’m also concerned that if I don’t mention this, it might lead to missing important examinations and result in serious problems.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/26

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

Hello, Miss Anonymous: The intermittent and pronounced sensation of swaying that you described, which feels somewhat like being on a boat and is not accompanied by significant headaches, is likely caused by a disturbance in the inner ear balance system.
It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology (ENT) or neurology clinic to arrange a series of balance nerve examinations.
When consulting with the physician, you can feel free to discuss related factors, including masturbation, without feeling embarrassed, as all relevant factors will be considered in the physician's assessment of your condition.

Reply Date: 2022/03/26

More Info

Experiencing unexplained shaking sensations can be concerning, and it's important to approach this issue with a clear understanding of potential causes and the appropriate steps to take. The sensations you describe, such as feeling like you're on a boat or experiencing tremors similar to an earthquake, can stem from various medical conditions, and it’s wise to seek medical advice.

Firstly, it's crucial to recognize that these sensations can be linked to several factors, including neurological, vestibular (inner ear), or psychological issues. For instance, conditions like anxiety or panic attacks can manifest physically, leading to sensations of shaking or instability. Additionally, vestibular disorders, which affect balance and spatial orientation, can cause similar feelings. Other potential causes could include medication side effects, dehydration, or even low blood sugar levels.

Given that you mentioned these sensations began a few weeks ago and have evolved over time, it would be prudent to consult your family doctor. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and possibly some diagnostic tests. These tests could help rule out any serious underlying conditions, such as neurological disorders or issues with your inner ear.

Regarding your concern about the relationship between these sensations and masturbation, it’s understandable to feel hesitant about discussing personal matters with a healthcare provider. However, it’s essential to remember that doctors are trained to handle sensitive topics with professionalism and confidentiality. If you believe that your symptoms might be related to this activity, it’s worth mentioning during your consultation. This information can provide your doctor with a more comprehensive understanding of your situation and help them make informed decisions about your care.

In terms of when to see your family doctor, it’s advisable to do so if:
1. The shaking sensations persist or worsen over time.

2. You experience additional symptoms, such as dizziness, headaches, or changes in vision.

3. The sensations interfere with your daily activities or quality of life.

4. You have concerns about the potential impact of your symptoms on your overall health.

In conclusion, while it’s natural to feel apprehensive about discussing personal issues with a doctor, addressing your symptoms openly can lead to a better understanding of your health and appropriate treatment. Your family doctor is there to help you navigate these concerns, and seeking their guidance is a proactive step toward ensuring your well-being. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Hand Tremors: When to See a Doctor for Diagnosis

1. When holding a TV remote control or pressing buttons on a mobile phone, my fingers tremble. 2. When my elbows are resting on the table, my palms shake. I'm not sure which specialty to consult for this. Additionally, my blood pressure is elevated; can I directly see a card...

Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your inquiry, for the issue of tremors, you may first consult a family medicine physician or a neurologist. For high blood pressure, you can seek care from a family medicine physician, a cardiologist, or a general internist. Thank you.

Uncontrollable Upper Body Tremors: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if I need to get an examination. Since elementary school, I have experienced sudden shaking in my upper body. It occurs whether I am standing or sitting, and it happens suddenly and uncontrollably, with a strong shake that lasts only for a moment...

Dr. Cai Zongzhang reply Neurology
Hello: It is recommended to undergo a neurological examination to check for any underlying neurological disorders.

Understanding Sudden Body Tremors: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello Doctor, today I was out shopping with friends all day and felt fine. However, after returning home, I suddenly experienced chest tightness and pain, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, body heat, fatigue, weakness in my legs, discomfort in my stomach, and pain around my left elbow ...

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, it is possible that you are experiencing gastroenteritis combined with fatigue from a full day of shopping, which could lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances causing your discomfort. If you continue to experience chest tightnes...

Unexplained Body Tremors: Understanding Neurological Symptoms

Doctor, every night when I lie down to sleep, my body feels like it's trembling as if being electrocuted, which wakes me up. During the day, I also feel very uncomfortable, as if I'm about to die, and I can't rest or sleep properly. Since that day, May 17th, when I...

Dr. Cai Zongzhang reply Neurology
Hello, Liu Chen! It is recommended to visit the neurology outpatient clinic for an examination.