Nerve Issues: Numbness and Weakness on One Side of the Body

Numbness above the neck and a dull sensation on the left side of the face?

Hello Doctor: Since I took cold medicine (mainly for gastroenteritis) on the morning of February 13, I have been experiencing a rapid heartbeat.
Additionally, I have weakness and tremors in my left side, including my arms and legs, and my left facial sensation feels somewhat dull.
I also have numbness from my neck down to my forehead, and my urination has been slow and somewhat warm (the doctor mentioned it could be due to the medication, but even after stopping the medication until today, February 15, I am still having difficulty urinating).
After dinner on the 13th, I couldn't tolerate it anymore and went to a family doctor who performed an electrocardiogram.
Aside from a heart rate of 110, the doctor said there were no other issues and prescribed me a fever reducer before sending me home.
Today, the numbness and tremors in my arms and legs have slightly improved, but I still experience numbness above my neck, and the sensation in my left face remains somewhat dull.
I would like to ask the doctor what I should do about these symptoms.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/15

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology

Dear Anonymous, some ingredients in cold medications may cause all the issues you mentioned, such as tremors and difficulty urinating.
Additionally, symptoms typically improve gradually after discontinuing the medication, although the time required varies for each individual.
Numbness or abnormal sensations above the neck can also be a side effect of the medication.
If symptoms persist after a week, please seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2016/02/15

More Info

Based on the symptoms you've described, it appears that you may be experiencing a combination of neurological issues that could be related to several underlying conditions. The numbness and weakness on one side of your body, particularly the left side, along with facial numbness and tingling sensations, are concerning and warrant further investigation.

Firstly, the sudden onset of these symptoms following the ingestion of medication raises the possibility of a drug reaction or side effect. Certain medications can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness, weakness, and changes in sensation. However, since you mentioned that you have stopped taking the medication and the symptoms persist, it suggests that there may be another underlying cause that needs to be addressed.

The symptoms you describe, such as left-sided weakness, facial numbness, and tingling sensations, could potentially indicate a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or even a stroke, particularly if they occurred suddenly. TIAs are often referred to as "mini-strokes" and can present with similar symptoms, but they typically resolve within 24 hours. However, the fact that your symptoms have not fully resolved and are still present after several days is concerning and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional immediately.

Additionally, the sensation of slow urination and the feeling of heat could suggest autonomic nervous system involvement, which can occur in various neurological conditions. It is essential to rule out any serious conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, which can cause similar symptoms due to demyelination of the nerves.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, I strongly recommend that you seek immediate medical attention from a neurologist. They may perform a thorough neurological examination, including imaging studies such as an MRI of the brain, to assess for any abnormalities. Blood tests may also be necessary to check for any metabolic or autoimmune conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In the meantime, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any worsening of your condition, such as increased weakness, difficulty speaking, or changes in consciousness, seek emergency medical care right away. Early intervention is key in managing neurological conditions effectively.

In summary, your symptoms of numbness and weakness on one side of the body, along with facial numbness and urinary issues, are concerning and require prompt medical evaluation. Please do not delay in seeking care, as timely diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact your health outcomes.

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