Dizziness and Numbness: Neurological Concerns Explained

Q: Dizziness and Numbness: Neurological Concerns Explained

Hello, sir： You mentioned that "neck tightness and tilting back or forward can cause dizziness, and sometimes I experience headaches... <br>my left hand is numb, and I feel numbness in my left teeth and left side of my face, with occasional headaches (the pain radiates outward)."

Dizziness and numbness in the face and hands?

Hello Doctor, on Thursday night, I started feeling a warm sensation in the back of my head.
On Friday, my temperature ranged from 37 to 37.5 degrees Celsius (the weather has been getting warmer), and my head still felt warm.
I had little appetite and sometimes experienced pain in my stomach and abdomen.
On Saturday, I felt tightness and soreness in my neck, and tilting my head back or forward would make me dizzy.
Occasionally, I would have a headache, and the stomach and abdominal pain persisted.
I went to the emergency room and received some antipyretics; the doctor said there was nothing seriously wrong with my body.
On Sunday, I continued to experience dizziness, with a tingling sensation extending to my teeth, and a burning sensation in my stomach.
In the evening, I felt nerve pain above my heart.
On Monday morning, I visited a clinic, and the doctor mentioned issues related to gastroesophageal reflux, attributing my headaches to recent stress.
In the evening, the nerve pain in my heart extended to my left arm, and at night, my left arm felt numb, along with tingling in my left teeth and left side of my face.
I occasionally experienced headaches (the pain radiated outward) while my consciousness remained normal and I could still move my muscles (temperature was between 37 and 37.5 degrees Celsius).
I've been under a lot of stress lately and feeling more anxious, sometimes sitting for long periods or using my phone, but I'm unsure if this indicates a real issue with my nerves and brain or if I'm just overthinking it.
Thank you, Doctor.

Lin Xiansheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/22

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, sir: You mentioned that "neck tightness and tilting back or forward can cause dizziness, and sometimes I experience headaches...
my left hand is numb, and I feel numbness in my left teeth and left side of my face, with occasional headaches (the pain radiates outward)." Since the abnormal sensations are occurring in your face and left side of your body, it may be necessary to consider abnormalities in the right upper cervical spine or the right thalamus.
I would like to know if you have metabolic syndrome (such as increased waist circumference, elevated fasting blood sugar, or abnormal lipid levels), as these conditions also place you at a higher risk for stroke.
Additionally, smoking can lead to cerebrovascular disease, resulting in cerebral infarction.
I recommend consulting a neurologist for examination and discussion.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related issues further! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Hua Medical/Tao Medical, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2024/04/22

More Info

Understanding dizziness and numbness can be quite complex, especially when multiple symptoms are involved, as in your case. Based on the symptoms you've described, it seems you are experiencing a combination of neurological and gastrointestinal issues, which may be interrelated, particularly in the context of stress and anxiety.

Firstly, the sensation of heat in your head, along with dizziness and nausea, can often be attributed to a variety of causes. These can range from benign conditions like tension headaches or migraines to more serious issues such as vestibular disorders or even neurological conditions. The fact that you have experienced neck tightness and pain when tilting your head could suggest muscle tension, which is common in individuals who are under stress. Stress can lead to muscle tightness, particularly in the neck and shoulders, which can contribute to headaches and dizziness.

The gastrointestinal symptoms you mentioned, such as stomach pain and a burning sensation, could indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), especially since your doctor suggested this diagnosis. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate GERD symptoms, leading to discomfort that may also be felt in the chest area, which could explain the "nerve pain" you described above your heart. It's important to manage these gastrointestinal symptoms, as they can significantly impact your overall well-being.

The numbness and tingling sensations extending to your teeth and left side of your face could be concerning. These symptoms can sometimes be associated with anxiety, particularly if they are transient and occur during periods of heightened stress. However, they can also indicate more serious conditions, such as nerve compression or neurological issues. The left-sided symptoms, especially if they are persistent or worsening, warrant further investigation to rule out any potential neurological concerns, such as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or other vascular issues.

Given your recent experiences with stress and anxiety, it's crucial to address these psychological factors as they can significantly influence physical symptoms. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which may cause dizziness and a sensation of numbness or tingling in various parts of the body. Additionally, prolonged periods of sitting or poor posture, especially while using devices like smartphones, can contribute to neck and back strain, further exacerbating your symptoms.

In terms of management, it would be beneficial to adopt a holistic approach. Here are some recommendations:
1. Stress Management: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga. These practices can help reduce anxiety and muscle tension, potentially alleviating some of your symptoms.

2. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can improve circulation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

3. Posture Awareness: Be mindful of your posture, especially when sitting for extended periods. Consider ergonomic adjustments to your workspace and take regular breaks to stretch and move.

4. Dietary Adjustments: If GERD is a concern, avoid foods that trigger your symptoms, such as spicy or fatty foods, and consider smaller, more frequent meals.

5. Medical Follow-Up: Since your symptoms are multifaceted, it may be beneficial to follow up with a neurologist for a comprehensive evaluation, especially regarding the numbness and tingling sensations. They may recommend imaging studies or nerve conduction studies to assess for any underlying neurological issues.

6. Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective for managing anxiety and stress, helping you develop coping strategies for your symptoms.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be influenced by stress and anxiety, it is essential to rule out any serious underlying conditions. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, along with lifestyle modifications, can help you manage your symptoms effectively. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical attention. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of your condition is crucial for recovery.

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