Tinnitus and Weakness: When to Seek Medical Help

Tinnitus and hand weakness?

Hello Doctor: I originally had a body type that was considered underweight.
Recently, I have been eating more than before, but I have lost 2.5 to 3 kg in the past three months.
I am unsure if the weight loss is causing my symptoms of palpitations and shortness of breath, which seem to improve slowly over about a week.
At times, the symptoms can be severe enough to cause sharp chest pain, and I sometimes feel unsteady on my feet, as if I might faint.
Occasionally, I drop things I am holding without realizing it.
At night, my tinnitus becomes louder than usual, which is quite distressing.
What tests should I undergo? Thank you for your response!

wendy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/11/08

Dr. Huang Yongquan reply Neurology

I am not aware of your dietary lifestyle, any medical history, or whether you experience work-related stress.
It is recommended that you visit an internal medicine or endocrinology department for a basic blood test and physical examination to assess your health and nutritional status, and then determine which specialty you may need to follow up with.

Reply Date: 2013/11/08

More Info

Hello,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your health. It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that are understandably distressing, including weight loss, palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and tinnitus. Each of these symptoms can be indicative of various underlying health issues, and it’s important to approach them with a comprehensive understanding.

Firstly, the weight loss you mentioned—despite an increase in food intake—could be a significant factor contributing to your symptoms. Unintentional weight loss can be associated with several medical conditions, including hyperthyroidism, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, or even malignancies. It is crucial to investigate the cause of this weight loss, as it can lead to nutritional deficiencies that may exacerbate your symptoms.

The symptoms of palpitations and shortness of breath, particularly if they are accompanied by chest pain, warrant immediate medical attention. These could be signs of cardiovascular issues, such as arrhythmias or even heart disease. It’s essential to have a thorough cardiovascular evaluation, which may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and possibly a Holter monitor to assess your heart's rhythm over a period of time.

Dizziness and the sensation of feeling faint can be linked to various factors, including dehydration, anemia, or issues related to blood pressure. It’s advisable to have your blood pressure checked in different positions (lying down, sitting, and standing) to rule out orthostatic hypotension, which can cause dizziness upon standing.

The tinnitus you are experiencing, especially if it worsens at night, can be related to several factors, including stress, anxiety, or even changes in blood flow. Tinnitus can also be associated with hearing loss or ear conditions, so an evaluation by an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) would be beneficial. They can conduct hearing tests and check for any underlying ear issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, I recommend the following steps:
1. Schedule a Comprehensive Medical Evaluation: Visit a primary care physician who can perform a thorough history and physical examination. They may refer you to specialists based on their findings.

2. Blood Tests: Request blood tests to check for thyroid function, complete blood count (CBC) to assess for anemia, metabolic panel to evaluate kidney and liver function, and possibly tests for inflammatory markers.

3. Cardiovascular Assessment: As mentioned, an ECG and possibly an echocardiogram should be performed to evaluate your heart's health.

4. ENT Consultation: An evaluation by an ENT specialist for your tinnitus and any potential ear-related issues.

5. Mental Health Support: Given the stress that these symptoms can cause, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Anxiety and stress can exacerbate physical symptoms, and addressing these can be beneficial.

In conclusion, while it is easy to feel overwhelmed by these symptoms, taking proactive steps to seek medical help is crucial. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve your quality of life and address any underlying health issues. Please do not hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals who can guide you through this process. Your health is important, and you deserve to feel better.

Best wishes for your health and recovery.

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