Weakness and Discomfort: When to See a Neurologist

Q: Weakness and Discomfort: When to See a Neurologist

Hello： It seems to be autonomic nervous system dysfunction. <br>How is your sleep? You may want to see a neurologist for an examination.

Limb weakness

Hello, I would like to ask about some symptoms I experienced a week ago.
I had shoulder stiffness and a poor appetite with nausea on the same day, but after resting, I felt better.
However, I have since experienced some minor discomforts, such as an uncomfortable feeling in my stomach after meals that feels like an inability to burp, and numbness in my arms after sitting for about two hours, along with muscle stiffness in my shoulders.
Last night, I even felt weakness in my left limbs, but that sensation disappeared a few hours later.
Additionally, my hands feel strained after performing fine motor tasks for an extended period (like using a mouse).
Could you please advise what these symptoms might indicate? If I need to seek medical attention, should I consult a neurologist? Thank you.

hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/01

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

Hello: It seems to be autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
How is your sleep? You may want to see a neurologist for an examination.

Reply Date: 2006/10/01

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about your symptoms. Based on the symptoms you've described—shoulder stiffness, decreased appetite, nausea, discomfort after meals, arm numbness, muscle stiffness, and transient weakness in the left side of your body—it's important to take these signs seriously, as they could indicate a range of underlying issues.

Firstly, the combination of shoulder stiffness and arm numbness could suggest a neurological issue, particularly if the numbness is persistent or recurrent. Conditions such as cervical radiculopathy, where a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, can lead to symptoms in the shoulder and arm. Additionally, if you are experiencing weakness in one side of your body, this could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or even a stroke, especially if the weakness is sudden and accompanied by other symptoms like confusion, difficulty speaking, or facial drooping.

The gastrointestinal symptoms you mentioned, such as nausea and discomfort after eating, could be related to stress, anxiety, or even a gastrointestinal condition like gastritis or reflux. However, if these symptoms are new and persistent, they should not be overlooked, as they can sometimes be associated with more serious conditions.

Given the transient nature of your left-sided weakness, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A neurologist would be well-equipped to evaluate your symptoms, perform necessary diagnostic tests (such as imaging studies or nerve conduction studies), and determine if there is an underlying neurological condition that needs to be addressed.
In addition to seeing a neurologist, it may also be beneficial to consult with a primary care physician who can assess your overall health, review your symptoms in detail, and coordinate any necessary referrals or tests. They can also help rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, including metabolic or endocrine issues, which could contribute to your overall discomfort.

In summary, I strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment with a neurologist as soon as possible, especially given the concerning nature of your symptoms. Early intervention can be crucial in managing any potential neurological issues and ensuring that you receive the appropriate care. Remember to keep track of your symptoms, including when they occur and any factors that seem to trigger or alleviate them, as this information can be very helpful for your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis.
Take care, and I hope you find relief from your symptoms soon!

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