Numbness and Appetite Loss: When to Seek Medical Help

Q: Numbness and Appetite Loss: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello： Since your discomfort includes symptoms of the upper respiratory tract and considering the current severity of the pandemic, it is recommended that you first conduct a rapid test to check for COVID-19. <br>If the rapid test is negative and there are no significant findings

Numbness in the hands and feet, along with loss of appetite?

A year ago, I experienced shortness of breath, chest tightness, and numbness in my hands, feet, and knees.
I went to a family medicine clinic where I had a chest X-ray and heart rate monitoring.
The doctor said there were no significant issues, just that my heart rate was slightly elevated at around 80 beats per minute.
After engaging in regular exercise, the symptoms did improve, but recently, over the past two to three days, the symptoms have returned.
I often feel tightness in the front and sides of my neck, a sensation of something stuck in my throat, and I suddenly experience chest tightness and a cool feeling in my chest both during the day and at night while sleeping.
I also find it difficult to swallow food, so for the past few days, I have only been eating soft foods like yogurt, steamed eggs, porridge, and tofu.
However, today I have even less appetite than the previous days; I only had a piece of cheesecake for breakfast and a bowl of porridge with a spoonful of steamed egg for lunch.
I have hardly eaten anything these past few days, and I am genuinely worried that my body won't be able to handle it if this continues.
I have already made an appointment for an ENT consultation on Wednesday to check for any issues.
I would like to ask, if the examination shows no significant problems, which specialty should I consult next for further evaluation?

minachain, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/13

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: Since your discomfort includes symptoms of the upper respiratory tract and considering the current severity of the pandemic, it is recommended that you first conduct a rapid test to check for COVID-19.
If the rapid test is negative and there are no significant findings from the ear, nose, and throat examination, we may consider the possibility of a gastrointestinal disorder.
In that case, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist.

Reply Date: 2022/06/13

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a concerning combination of symptoms, including numbness, difficulty swallowing, and appetite loss. These symptoms can be quite distressing and may indicate an underlying medical issue that requires further evaluation. Given your history of respiratory issues and the recent recurrence of symptoms, it's important to take these concerns seriously.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe, such as tightness in the neck, difficulty swallowing, and chest discomfort, could be related to several potential causes. These might include anxiety or stress, which can manifest physically, or they could be indicative of more serious conditions such as esophageal disorders, neurological issues, or even cardiovascular problems. The fact that you previously experienced similar symptoms and they resolved with exercise suggests that there may be a connection to your overall health and lifestyle.

Since you have already scheduled an appointment with an ENT specialist, that is a good first step. They will be able to assess your throat and neck for any anatomical or functional issues that could be contributing to your swallowing difficulties and discomfort. If the ENT evaluation does not reveal any significant problems, the next step would typically involve consulting with a gastroenterologist, especially since your swallowing difficulties and appetite loss could be related to gastrointestinal issues, such as esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or other esophageal disorders.

In addition to these specialists, it may also be beneficial to consult with a neurologist if your symptoms of numbness persist or worsen. Numbness in the extremities can sometimes be associated with neurological conditions that require specific tests, such as nerve conduction studies or imaging studies of the brain and spine.

It's also crucial to address your appetite loss. A significant decrease in appetite can lead to nutritional deficiencies and further health complications. If you find it challenging to consume solid foods, consider consulting with a dietitian who can help you create a meal plan that meets your nutritional needs while accommodating your swallowing difficulties. Soft foods, smoothies, and nutritional supplements can be helpful in maintaining your caloric intake.

Lastly, if you are experiencing anxiety or stress related to these symptoms, it may be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional. Anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms, and addressing any psychological factors may help alleviate some of your physical discomfort.

In summary, you are taking the right steps by seeking medical attention. After your ENT appointment, if no significant issues are found, consider seeing a gastroenterologist and possibly a neurologist. Additionally, addressing your nutritional needs and any psychological factors will be important in managing your overall health. Remember to keep a record of your symptoms, as this can provide valuable information to your healthcare providers in determining the best course of action.

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