Upper Body Exercise Limitations: Symptoms and Possible Causes

The issue of being completely unable to move the upper body..?

Hello: Whenever I engage in any physical activity that involves my upper body, I experience the following symptoms (regardless of the intensity): 1.
Extreme dizziness and severe pain in my head 2.
My vision becomes completely blurred, and everything I see appears white 3.
My heart rate increases significantly, and I hear a buzzing sound in my ears 4.
My breathing becomes very difficult 5.
My face and lips turn pale (this is noted by my family).
I have undergone the following tests: 1.
Blood tests 2.
Cardiac evaluation 3.
Lung examination 4.
Bronchial assessment, all of which were quite thorough, but no cause has been identified, and all three areas are considered healthy...
Could you please advise what this might be (or which area could be problematic)? Thank you very much! (P.S.: I do not have any other unhealthy habits before or after exercising, and my height and weight are within normal ranges.)

Zi Tong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/10

Dr. Chen Jingwen reply Internal Medicine

Hello! During exercise, a normal person's oxygen demand increases, leading to enhanced function across various body systems.
For instance, the sympathetic nervous system accelerates the heart rate, and the increased oxygen demand causes faster breathing (which may be perceived as shortness of breath).
If there are issues with the heart or lungs, it can result in difficulty breathing (very uncomfortable), an excessively fast heart rate, and symptoms of cerebral hypoxia, such as dizziness or seeing spots (white or black).
Therefore, it is recommended to consult a cardiologist for further evaluation of heart function and to see a neurologist for a carotid ultrasound.
Thank you for your question!

Reply Date: 2005/02/10

More Info

Understanding the symptoms you are experiencing during upper body exercises is crucial for identifying potential underlying issues. The symptoms you describe—extreme dizziness and pain in the head, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, and pale complexion—are concerning and warrant a thorough investigation.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that these symptoms could be indicative of several conditions, and while you have undergone extensive testing (blood work, cardiac evaluations, lung function tests), the absence of findings does not rule out all possibilities. Here are some potential causes to consider:
1. Vasovagal Response: This is a common cause of dizziness and fainting during physical exertion. It occurs when the body overreacts to certain triggers, such as pain, stress, or prolonged standing, leading to a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure. This can cause symptoms like dizziness, blurred vision, and even fainting.

2. Orthostatic Hypotension: If you experience a drop in blood pressure when moving from a sitting or lying position to standing, it can lead to dizziness and faintness. This condition can be exacerbated by dehydration or certain medications.

3. Cervical Spine Issues: Problems in the cervical spine, such as herniated discs or degenerative changes, can lead to nerve compression. This can result in symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and even visual disturbances, especially during upper body movements.

4. Hyperventilation Syndrome: If you are inadvertently hyperventilating during exercise, it can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and tingling sensations. This often occurs when individuals are anxious or exerting themselves physically.

5. Neurological Conditions: While less common, certain neurological conditions could present with these symptoms. Migraines, for example, can cause severe headaches and visual disturbances, and they can be triggered by physical activity.

6. Cardiovascular Issues: Although your heart tests were normal, it is still important to consider that some cardiovascular conditions may not be easily detectable in standard tests. Conditions like arrhythmias can cause symptoms during exertion.

Given the complexity of your symptoms and the fact that they occur specifically during upper body exercise, it is advisable to consult with a specialist, such as a neurologist or a cardiologist, who can provide a more focused evaluation. They may recommend further testing, such as a tilt table test, echocardiogram, or even a referral for a neurological assessment.

In the meantime, it may be beneficial to modify your exercise routine. Consider focusing on lower body exercises or activities that do not provoke your symptoms until you have a clearer understanding of what is causing them. Additionally, ensure you are well-hydrated and avoid exercising in extreme temperatures, as these factors can exacerbate symptoms.

Lastly, keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their duration, and any associated activities. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.

In conclusion, while your previous tests have not revealed any significant health concerns, the symptoms you are experiencing during upper body exercises are significant and should not be ignored. A thorough evaluation by a specialist is essential to determine the underlying cause and to develop a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to your needs.

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