Facial and Limb Numbness: Possible Causes and Solutions

Numbness in the face and extremities?

Recently, I have been experiencing frequent episodes of dizziness, tinnitus, and palpitations, which have made me very anxious.
I constantly worry about whether I might be ill, and it has even affected my daily life, leading to emotional instability.
I researched online and found that it could be autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
I tried to change my mood, and those symptoms did improve somewhat.
However, the day before yesterday afternoon, I suddenly experienced facial numbness.
I thought a good sleep might help, but it did not improve.
By today, the facial numbness has slightly improved, but I have started to feel tingling and numbness in various parts of my hands and feet.
It seems difficult to accurately tap on my phone.
I looked online again and found that this could be an early symptom of multiple sclerosis.
I would like to ask the doctor about the possible causes and solutions.
Thank you.

Qi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/02

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Miss Chi,
Regarding your mention of "early symptoms of multiple sclerosis," your symptoms do not align with this issue, as they do not present as lesions in a single area of the nervous system.
Multiple sclerosis is caused by inflammation in the central nervous system and damage to the myelin sheath.
This results in impaired transmission of nerve impulses.
The inflammatory process (pathologically referred to as plaques) can lead to various symptoms in the brain and spinal cord, such as vision loss, numbness, weakness, unsteady gait, and double vision.
Your symptoms may need to be considered in the context of hyperventilation, which can lead to decreased carbon dioxide levels in the blood, resulting in an increased pH and systemic reactions and symptoms.
Common manifestations include vasoconstriction and decreased blood calcium levels.
Reduced blood flow to the brain due to vasoconstriction can cause dizziness, numbness (especially around the lips and upper limbs), and weakness.
However, it is important to rule out nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin B12 and folate deficiency, as well as metabolic abnormalities like hypothyroidism and electrolyte imbalances.
I recommend that you consult a neurologist for further evaluation and monitoring.
Please ensure to implement self-protection measures, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to new preventive health practices before and after your medical visit.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions further! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi
Department of Neurology
Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2022/06/02

More Info

Facial and limb numbness can be concerning symptoms, and it's understandable that you're feeling anxious about them. Your experience of dizziness, tinnitus (ear ringing), palpitations, and emotional instability, followed by facial numbness and tingling in your limbs, raises several potential medical considerations.
Firstly, it's important to recognize that these symptoms can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. One common cause of facial numbness and tingling in the limbs is anxiety and stress, which can lead to hyperventilation and changes in blood flow, resulting in sensations of numbness or tingling. Given that you mentioned feeling anxious and experiencing emotional instability, this could be a significant factor in your symptoms.

Another possibility is a condition known as peripheral neuropathy, which can result from various factors including vitamin deficiencies (such as B12), diabetes, or even certain medications. If you have any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid issues, these could also contribute to your symptoms.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is indeed a condition that can present with numbness and tingling, particularly if it affects the central nervous system. However, MS typically has additional symptoms, such as vision problems, muscle weakness, or coordination difficulties. If you are concerned about this possibility, it is essential to consult a neurologist for a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies like an MRI and other diagnostic tests.

In terms of immediate steps you can take, here are some recommendations:
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given the range of symptoms you're experiencing, it's crucial to see a healthcare provider, preferably a neurologist. They can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly blood tests or imaging studies to rule out serious conditions.

2. Manage Anxiety: Since anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms, consider incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine. Practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety levels and improve your overall well-being.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their duration, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing your condition.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Ensure you are maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise. These factors can significantly impact your physical and mental health.

5. Limit Screen Time: Since you mentioned difficulty using your phone, it may be beneficial to take regular breaks from screens to reduce eye strain and potential exacerbation of symptoms.

6. Follow-Up: If your symptoms persist or worsen, ensure you follow up with your healthcare provider. They may refer you to specialists or recommend further testing based on your symptoms.

In conclusion, while your symptoms can be distressing, many potential causes are manageable with appropriate medical care and lifestyle adjustments. Seeking professional guidance is the best course of action to ensure that you receive the correct diagnosis and treatment. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources and support available to help you navigate these challenges.

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