Cold Neck and Sweating: Possible Nerve Issues

Q: Cold Neck and Sweating: Possible Nerve Issues

Hello Mr. <br>Hsu： You mentioned that the "cold sensation in the neck" may be related to nerve root compression at cervical levels 4-6? You also mentioned experiencing pain at thoracic vertebrae levels 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12. <br>Are you referring to muscle pain adjacent to the tho

Cold neck and sweating?

Recently, after receiving a massage for back pain, I have been experiencing an inexplicable cold sensation in my neck during sleep or daily activities.
I also feel pain in the 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th vertebrae, and at times, I experience dizziness, a feeling of pressure in my head, and nausea.
I would like to know if this could be caused by nerve compression and what kind of examinations I should undergo.

Xu, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/22

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Mr.
Hsu: You mentioned that the "cold sensation in the neck" may be related to nerve root compression at cervical levels 4-6? You also mentioned experiencing pain at thoracic vertebrae levels 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12.
Are you referring to muscle pain adjacent to the thoracic spine? Generally, common symptoms of peripheral nerve compression include: pain, numbness, and weakness.
1.
The nature of the pain may be burning or electric-like.
2.
Symptoms often have a specific dermatomal distribution, and touching or pressing can provoke symptoms.
3.
Accompanied by muscle soreness and weakness.
These symptoms can easily be confused with other conditions originating from muscles, bones, or the spine.
Examination for peripheral nerve issues typically involves electrophysiological studies to assist in diagnosis.
Nerve conduction studies assess the conduction velocity and waveform of large fiber nerves.
Electromyography evaluates the muscle response in the area of nerve distribution.
Diagnosis of nerve root compression in the spine requires electromyography.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I welcome further discussion.
I recommend consulting a neurologist for examination and treatment.
Wishing you good health, peace, and joy.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/03/22

More Info

Experiencing a cold sensation in the neck along with pain in the thoracic spine (specifically at the 8th to 12th vertebrae) can be concerning, especially when accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and nausea. These symptoms may suggest a possible nerve issue or other underlying conditions that warrant further investigation.

Firstly, the sensation of coldness in the neck could be related to several factors. One possibility is that there may be nerve compression or irritation in the cervical or thoracic spine. The spine is a complex structure that houses the spinal cord and nerves, which can be affected by various conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or muscle tension. When nerves are compressed, they can produce abnormal sensations, including coldness, tingling, or numbness.
The pain you are experiencing in the thoracic region may also be contributing to the cold sensation. Muscle tension or spasms in the neck and upper back can lead to referred sensations, where discomfort in one area can manifest as unusual feelings in another. Additionally, if there is inflammation or irritation of the nerves in the thoracic region, it could lead to the symptoms you are describing.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a neurologist or an orthopedic specialist. They can conduct a thorough physical examination and may recommend imaging studies such as an MRI or CT scan to assess the condition of your spine and identify any potential nerve compression or structural abnormalities.
In addition to imaging, nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) may be useful to evaluate the function of the nerves and muscles in the affected areas. These tests can help determine if there is any nerve damage or dysfunction contributing to your symptoms.

It's also important to consider other potential causes for your symptoms. Conditions such as fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, or even anxiety can lead to similar sensations and discomfort. If your symptoms are related to muscle tension or stress, physical therapy, relaxation techniques, or even cognitive behavioral therapy may be beneficial.

In the meantime, you might find relief through conservative measures such as applying heat to the affected area, practicing good posture, and engaging in gentle stretching exercises. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage discomfort, but it is essential to discuss any medication use with your healthcare provider.

In summary, the cold sensation in your neck, along with the pain in your thoracic spine and accompanying symptoms, could be indicative of nerve involvement or other musculoskeletal issues. A comprehensive evaluation by a medical professional is crucial to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Don't hesitate to seek medical attention to address your concerns and improve your quality of life.

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