Head Numbness: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help

Numbness in the head?

I had been taking sleeping pills for about three years, but switched to traditional Chinese medicine over a month ago, which has caused frequent headaches and a tingling sensation in my head.
Now, I feel dizzy every day, and after a hospital examination, the doctor said I do not have anemia.
Why am I experiencing such severe pain so often? Which specialist should I see? Could this lead to a stroke?

Miss Huang, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/19

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

To assess whether the headache, head numbness, and dizziness in the center of the head are longstanding issues or have recently emerged due to medication changes, it is important to consider that, from a Western medicine perspective, there are many causes for headaches, numbness, and dizziness.
Medication withdrawal could be a possibility, and tension-type headaches are also quite common.
Stroke would be considered later unless you have chronic conditions or risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, smoking, lack of exercise, or a family history of cardiovascular diseases.
When seeking medical attention, the general principle is to first consult a neurologist to rule out some of the aforementioned possibilities, and if necessary, a referral to a psychiatrist may be made to address issues related to sleep or emotional stress.

Reply Date: 2015/09/19

More Info

Head numbness and persistent headaches can be concerning symptoms that warrant careful evaluation. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced a significant change in your health after switching from sleeping pills to traditional Chinese medicine. This change may have contributed to your current symptoms, including headaches and a sensation of dizziness or numbness in your head.

There are several potential causes for your symptoms. First, it is essential to consider the possibility of withdrawal effects from the sleeping medication you were taking for three years. Abruptly stopping or changing medications can lead to various side effects, including headaches and dizziness. Additionally, the new herbal medication may have its own side effects or interactions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

Another important factor to consider is the role of stress and anxiety. If you have been under significant stress, this can lead to tension headaches, which are characterized by a feeling of tightness or pressure around the head. These headaches can also be accompanied by dizziness and a sense of numbness. It is crucial to assess your stress levels and consider relaxation techniques or stress management strategies.

In terms of neurological concerns, while your doctor has ruled out anemia, it is still essential to monitor for other potential issues. Persistent headaches and numbness can sometimes be indicative of more serious conditions, such as migraines, tension-type headaches, or even neurological disorders. Although the risk of stroke is generally low in younger individuals without other risk factors, it is still a valid concern that should not be dismissed. If your symptoms worsen or if you experience additional symptoms such as weakness, difficulty speaking, or changes in vision, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a neurologist. A neurologist specializes in disorders of the nervous system and can perform a thorough evaluation, including a detailed history, physical examination, and possibly imaging studies such as an MRI or CT scan if deemed necessary. These tests can help rule out any structural issues in the brain or other neurological conditions.

In the meantime, consider keeping a headache diary to track the frequency, duration, and intensity of your headaches, as well as any associated symptoms. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause of your symptoms and developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Lastly, if you are experiencing significant anxiety or distress related to your symptoms, it may also be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional. They can provide support and coping strategies to help you manage any psychological factors that may be contributing to your physical symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to medication changes, stress, or tension headaches, it is essential to seek further evaluation from a neurologist to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Monitoring your symptoms and maintaining open communication with your healthcare providers will be key in managing your health effectively.

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