Heart Weakness: Symptoms of Numbness and Fatigue

Heart weakness ~ numbness in hands and legs?

Hello! I would like to ask a few questions.
My mother is nearly sixty years old and has high blood pressure, for which she is taking antihypertensive medication.
Recently, she has been feeling weakness in her heart, her hands are easily numb, her legs feel sore, and she often experiences dizziness.
She has difficulty standing; she feels faint after standing for a short time, and she frequently burps.
Sometimes, even drinking water causes her to burp.
Could you please help me with this? Thank you very much!

Ms. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/03

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Dear Ms.
Chen, please measure your blood pressure at home while lying down and standing up.
It may be caused by orthostatic hypotension, which is more likely to occur in patients taking antihypertensive medications.
As for the numbness in your hands and feet, it may be related to a neurological issue.
You can visit a neurologist for further evaluation.
Hiccups may be related to neurological control or gastrointestinal issues.
After the neurological examination, you may also want to consult a gastroenterologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2006/10/03

More Info

Understanding heart weakness, particularly in the context of symptoms such as numbness, fatigue, and dizziness, is crucial, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions like hypertension. Your mother's symptoms—heart weakness, numbness in the arms, leg fatigue, frequent dizziness, and excessive burping—can be indicative of several underlying issues that warrant further investigation.

Firstly, the sensation of heart weakness can often be associated with decreased cardiac output, which may occur due to various forms of heart disease, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, or valvular heart disease. In patients with hypertension, the heart can become overworked, leading to a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), where the heart muscle thickens and may not pump effectively. This can result in symptoms of fatigue and weakness, as the heart struggles to meet the body's demands.

The numbness in the arms and fatigue in the legs could potentially be linked to peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs. This is particularly relevant for individuals with a history of hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors. Additionally, neurological issues such as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or even peripheral neuropathy could be contributing to the numbness and weakness.

Dizziness and the sensation of faintness upon standing could indicate orthostatic hypotension, a condition where blood pressure drops significantly when a person stands up. This can be particularly concerning in older adults or those on blood pressure medications, as these medications can sometimes lead to overly low blood pressure.

Frequent burping, especially after drinking water, may not be directly related to heart function but could indicate gastrointestinal issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or even anxiety-related symptoms. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms, leading to a cycle of discomfort and increased awareness of bodily sensations.

Given your mother's age and symptoms, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation. This should include:
1. Cardiac Assessment: An electrocardiogram (EKG) and echocardiogram can help assess heart function and structure. A stress test may also be warranted to evaluate how the heart performs under exertion.

2. Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure, especially when changing positions, can help identify issues like orthostatic hypotension.

3. Neurological Evaluation: If numbness persists, a neurological assessment may be necessary to rule out conditions such as neuropathy or TIAs.

4. Blood Tests: Checking for electrolyte imbalances, thyroid function, and other metabolic factors can provide insight into fatigue and weakness.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging a heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity (as tolerated), and stress management techniques can be beneficial.

In summary, your mother's symptoms are concerning and should not be overlooked. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the underlying causes and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. Please ensure she sees her doctor soon to address these issues comprehensively.

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