Neurological Symptoms: What Could Be Causing Your Pain?

excuse me?

I am 21 years old and I experience sharp pain in the back of my right head, and sometimes the entire back of my head hurts.
I also have dizziness and nausea, and my vision can suddenly go black.
Occasionally, my left hand feels numb, and I suddenly break out in cold sweats, with weakness in my limbs followed by temporary loss of vision (bilateral).
My sleep is normal.
What could be the cause of this? Could there be something growing in my brain?

Xiao Fang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/08/09

Dr. Huang Yingzhe reply Neurology

Dear Dr.
Huang Ying-Che from the Neurology Department of Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan:
Please visit the Neurology outpatient clinic for an evaluation.
A detailed medical history and inquiry into your symptoms are essential, as there may be issues with the brain, and certain types of migraines could also present similarly.
The Tainan Hospital wishes you good health and all the best!

Reply Date: 2005/08/09

More Info

Based on your symptoms, it sounds like you are experiencing a complex array of neurological issues that could be linked to several underlying conditions. The symptoms you describe—sharp pain in the right back of your head, dizziness, nausea, transient vision loss, occasional numbness in your left hand, cold sweats, and weakness in your limbs—are concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Migraine or Migraine-Associated Symptoms: Migraines can present with severe headaches, often localized to one side of the head, and can be accompanied by nausea, dizziness, and visual disturbances (aura). The fact that you experience sudden vision loss could suggest a migraine with aura, which can cause temporary visual disturbances.

2. Tension-Type Headaches: These are often characterized by a feeling of tightness or pressure around the head and can be associated with neck tension, which might explain the pain in the back of your head. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate these headaches.

3. Cervical Spine Issues: Given that you have pain in the back of your head, it’s possible that there could be an issue with your cervical spine (neck). Conditions such as cervical spondylosis or herniated discs can lead to nerve compression, resulting in pain, dizziness, and neurological symptoms like numbness.

4. Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) could also present with similar symptoms, including transient vision loss, weakness, and sensory changes. These conditions are serious and require immediate medical attention.

5. Vascular Issues: Problems with blood flow to the brain, such as a vertebral artery dissection or other vascular malformations, could lead to symptoms like those you are experiencing. These conditions can cause severe headaches and neurological deficits.

6. Anxiety and Panic Disorders: Sometimes, anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as cold sweats, dizziness, and a feeling of weakness. However, given the neurological nature of your symptoms, it’s crucial to rule out other medical conditions first.

Recommended Actions
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the severity and complexity of your symptoms, it is essential to consult a neurologist as soon as possible. They may recommend imaging studies such as an MRI or CT scan to rule out structural abnormalities in the brain or cervical spine.

2. Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting when your symptoms occur, their duration, and any potential triggers can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

3. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it’s helpful to research your symptoms, avoid jumping to conclusions about what might be wrong. Only a qualified healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis.

4. Manage Stress: While awaiting your appointment, consider engaging in stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness, yoga, or gentle exercise, as stress can exacerbate many neurological symptoms.

5. Monitor Your Symptoms: If you experience worsening symptoms, such as increased frequency of headaches, changes in vision, or new neurological symptoms (like weakness or numbness), seek emergency medical care.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are concerning and could be indicative of various neurological conditions. It is crucial to seek a thorough evaluation from a healthcare professional who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can be key in managing neurological symptoms effectively.

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