Sudden Body Tremors: When to Seek Medical Attention

Q: Sudden Body Tremors: When to Seek Medical Attention

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. <br>If you continue to experience chest tigh

Sudden whole-body shaking?

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 (though I did lift heavy objects, so I'm not sure if that's related).
I immediately lay down to rest, and then my body started shaking (arms, abdomen, and legs) for about 15 to 20 minutes, with a brief pause in between before the shaking continued.
During this time, I was fully conscious.
I have a history of mild gastritis, but in the past, it hasn't caused shaking—just cold sweats and dizziness.
Before heading home, I had diarrhea in a public restroom, and I'm not sure if that’s related.
Doctor, should I see a neurologist or a gastroenterologist? Is it necessary to seek immediate medical attention, or can I observe my symptoms for a while longer?

Qi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/13

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 tightness or pain, and if you have another episode of full-body shaking, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention in the emergency department.
If not, monitor your gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain and diarrhea) for any worsening.
If they do worsen, it is recommended to consult a family medicine physician or a gastroenterologist.

Reply Date: 2023/05/13

More Info

Based on the symptoms you've described, it is essential to take your situation seriously. Sudden onset of chest pain, heart palpitations, dizziness, body tremors, and gastrointestinal discomfort can indicate a range of medical issues, some of which may require immediate attention.

Firstly, the combination of chest pain and heart palpitations can be concerning, especially if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness and weakness. These symptoms could suggest a cardiovascular issue, such as angina or even a myocardial infarction (heart attack), particularly if you have risk factors such as a history of heart problems, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. The fact that you experienced body tremors and a feeling of heat could also indicate a stress response or panic attack, especially if you were feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

The gastrointestinal symptoms, including the discomfort and diarrhea, may suggest a gastrointestinal issue, such as gastritis or a gastrointestinal infection. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate these conditions, leading to a cycle of symptoms that can be difficult to break. The tremors you experienced could be a physical manifestation of anxiety or a reaction to the discomfort in your stomach.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. If your chest pain is severe or if you experience additional symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, or radiating pain to the arm or jaw, you should go to the emergency room immediately. Even if the symptoms are mild, it is better to err on the side of caution, especially when it comes to potential heart issues.

In terms of which specialist to see, both a neurologist and a gastroenterologist could be relevant, but given the acute nature of your symptoms, starting with a visit to the emergency department or a cardiologist would be prudent. They can perform necessary tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood tests, to rule out any serious cardiac conditions. If your heart is deemed healthy, you can then follow up with a gastroenterologist to address your gastrointestinal symptoms.

In summary, your symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation. Do not hesitate to seek help, as timely intervention can be crucial in managing potential health issues effectively. Remember, your health is paramount, and it is always better to seek medical advice when in doubt.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Body Tremors: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello doctor, yesterday while I was sleeping, I suddenly noticed that the left side of my body and my left hand were trembling. I was abruptly awakened by the shaking, and the symptoms lasted for several seconds. After waking up, I found that the entire left upper half of my body...

Dr. Cai Zongzhang reply Neurology
Hello, Song: The symptoms mentioned above may indicate a neurological disorder. It is recommended to visit a neurology outpatient clinic for examination.

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 Involuntary Tremors: When to See a Doctor

If you experience involuntary shaking or trembling of the head or lips while watching television or concentrating on a task, and sometimes your hands also tremble involuntarily, it is advisable to see a doctor. You should consider consulting a neurologist, as they specialize in c...

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
When our body performs movements, it utilizes antagonistic muscle groups to maintain balance. In certain situations, when small muscle groups are insufficiently antagonistic, so-called "involuntary movements" may occur, such as hand tremors, blinking, or head shaking. T...

Understanding Involuntary Body Tremors: Causes and Concerns

Since around the beginning of my sophomore year in high school, I occasionally experience sudden, significant body tremors while doing everyday activities, similar to a startle response. I have been unsure of the cause and find it quite concerning. I would like to ask what might ...

Dr. Chen Weida reply Neurology
Hello Ms. Pan, your symptoms sound like a type of involuntary movement known as "myoclonus." It is recommended that you visit a neurology clinic for evaluation. Wishing you health and safety, thank you.