Imbalance: Exploring Neurological Issues in Teens - Neurology

Share to:

Walking with an unsteady gait and feeling heavy-headed while the legs feel light?


Since early March, I have been experiencing a very mild sense of imbalance while walking, an uncontrollable feeling, as if my head is heavy and my legs are light.
I sometimes walk off course and struggle to correct myself, which feels very strange.
At other times, I feel a sense of lightheadedness.
However, it’s not severe enough that I constantly fall.
Occasionally, I experience headaches, and my muscles feel weak all over.
Sometimes my heart feels like it’s beating oddly, and my hands tremble occasionally.
These symptoms occur daily, from morning to night; my sense of balance is definitely an issue! I feel fatigued all over and exhausted, as if I’m losing hope.
I’m unsure what’s wrong with me.
I have visited a major hospital several times, undergoing tests like EEG, CT scans, and electromyography.
I do not have anemia, and the doctor conducted various tests, all of which came back normal! The doctors say there’s nothing wrong with me and can’t identify any issues with my walking.
I can walk in a straight line, but it still doesn’t feel right; I have a slight swaying sensation.
Despite the thorough examinations at the hospital, nothing conclusive has been found.
I’m only 16 years old, and feeling this way every day is very frustrating.
What could be wrong? Thank you.

Jingxiang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/06/23

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology


There are many possible causes for walking imbalance, affecting organs from head to toe.
Regardless of the underlying reason, clinical symptoms or biochemical blood tests can help identify a direction for diagnosis.
Instrumental examinations can only serve as an adjunct in the face of such symptoms; the key lies in exploring accompanying clinical symptoms and signs.
If possible, one should visit a neurology clinic for a more detailed history-taking and clinical neurological examination, which may help determine the direction for further investigation.

Reply Date: 2011/06/23

More Info


It sounds like you're experiencing a range of concerning symptoms that are affecting your balance, coordination, and overall well-being. Given your age and the persistence of these symptoms, it's understandable that you're feeling frustrated and worried. Let's break down your symptoms and explore potential neurological issues that could be contributing to your experiences.

From what you've described, you have a sensation of mild imbalance, a feeling of heaviness in your head, occasional headaches, muscle weakness, and tremors in your hands. These symptoms can be indicative of several neurological conditions, but they can also arise from non-neurological issues such as anxiety or stress, which can manifest physically.
One of the first things to consider is whether your symptoms could be related to vestibular dysfunction. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, is crucial for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. If there is an issue with this system, it can lead to feelings of dizziness, imbalance, and a sensation of being "off." Conditions such as vestibular neuritis or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) could potentially explain some of your symptoms. However, these conditions typically present with more pronounced dizziness or vertigo.

Another possibility is that your symptoms could be related to a neurological condition affecting your motor control or coordination. For instance, conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or other demyelinating diseases can present with balance issues, muscle weakness, and tremors. However, these conditions are often accompanied by other neurological signs, which may not have been evident in your tests.

Additionally, your symptoms could be linked to anxiety or stress, especially given that you mentioned feeling overwhelmed by your situation. Anxiety can lead to physical symptoms such as muscle tension, tremors, and a sense of imbalance. It's important to consider the psychological aspect of your health, as mental health can significantly impact physical sensations and overall well-being.

Since you've already undergone various tests, including EEGs, CT scans, and electromyography (EMG), and the results have come back normal, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a neurologist who specializes in movement disorders or balance issues. They may recommend additional tests, such as an MRI of the brain, to rule out any structural abnormalities or conditions that may not have been detected in previous evaluations.

In the meantime, it might be helpful to keep a journal of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in understanding your condition better.

Lastly, consider discussing your symptoms with a mental health professional. They can help you explore any underlying anxiety or stress that may be contributing to your physical sensations. Engaging in relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or cognitive-behavioral therapy may also provide some relief.

In summary, while your symptoms are concerning, they may not necessarily indicate a severe neurological condition. It's essential to continue advocating for your health, seeking further evaluations, and considering both physical and mental health aspects. Remember, you're not alone in this, and with the right support and guidance, you can find a path toward feeling better.

Similar Q&A

Navigating the Challenges of Unexplained Neurological Symptoms in Teens

Dear Dr. Lan, I have a 17-year-old daughter who experienced a sudden fainting episode last April. It was a hot day, and she left home without breakfast because she was in a hurry to meet her teacher. Shortly after leaving, she called to inform me that she was feeling unwell. Whe...


Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology
Dear Dabby, I didn't see anyone, but generally, at this time, we believe that parents should patiently accompany their children in receiving treatment, rather than constantly seeking different tests and treatments. I would like to recommend Dr. Li Jiayan to you; I believe Dr...

[Read More] Navigating the Challenges of Unexplained Neurological Symptoms in Teens


Chronic Headaches in Teens: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Help

Hello, I am currently a senior in high school and have been troubled by long-term headaches. I started experiencing headaches in the first year of middle school, which typically occur every afternoon. Over time, especially after my third year of middle school, the pain began to o...


Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Hello: It seems to be a phenomenon of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, but first, check if thyroid function is normal. Avoid stimulating foods, maintain a regular schedule, and increase daytime exercise for effective improvement.

[Read More] Chronic Headaches in Teens: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Help


Understanding School-Related Headaches and Emotional Struggles in Teens

Hello, I often get angry over trivial matters. When I was in school, I frequently experienced headaches, which completely hindered my ability to think. Sometimes, I would act out irrationally (engaging in silly behaviors or speaking inappropriately), which caused me significant d...


Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear friend: It seems that you are experiencing quite a bit of difficulty in your interpersonal relationships. "People who struggle to interact with others often have few friends," and it appears that you lack self-confidence, fearing that you might say the wrong thing ...

[Read More] Understanding School-Related Headaches and Emotional Struggles in Teens


Understanding Intrusive Thoughts and Impulses: A Mental Health Perspective

Hello, doctor. Actually, I don't quite understand my issue; I just know that I seem to have some symptoms of attention deficit, so I came to consult you. I apologize if I'm mistaken. As a child, I was someone who found it difficult to concentrate, and sometimes I would ...


Dr. Song Chengxian reply Psychiatry
Hello Kai-Hsuan, based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing persistent obsessive thoughts, poor concentration, and involuntary movements. I recommend that you seek evaluation from a psychiatrist or a mental health specialist to assess whether you may have...

[Read More] Understanding Intrusive Thoughts and Impulses: A Mental Health Perspective


Related FAQ

Eeg

(Neurology)

Ankle

(Neurology)

Psychoneurosis

(Neurology)

Face

(Neurology)

Vision

(Neurology)

Hands

(Neurology)

Family Medicine

(Neurology)

Cerebral Infarction

(Neurology)

Ms

(Neurology)

Vertigo

(Neurology)