Abnormal sensations in the head?
I experience numbness and pain when I touch the back of my head, particularly near the neck.
The discomfort worsens when I turn my head or talk a lot, and I sometimes feel a lack of clarity in my consciousness, accompanied by dizziness.
Recently, my blood pressure has been around 110/65, and my pulse is quite low, approximately in the 50s.
I'm unsure if this is related to anemia or a circulatory issue.
I am a carrier of hepatitis B.
Ji, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/08/13
Dr. Huang Yingzhe reply Neurology
There may be issues with nerve compression in the cervical spine, and additionally, there could be obstruction in the cervical blood vessels based on your description.
It is recommended to undergo cervical X-ray imaging to check for the presence of cervical rib.
However, it is still advisable to consult a physician for an examination to determine the appropriate course of action.
Reply Date: 2002/08/13
More Info
Understanding abnormal sensations in the head, particularly in the context of your symptoms, requires a multifaceted approach. Your description of numbness and pain in the back of your head, especially near the neck, along with feelings of dizziness and unclear consciousness, raises several potential concerns that merit further exploration.
Firstly, the sensations you are experiencing could be related to several conditions. One possibility is cervical spine issues, such as cervical spondylosis or herniated discs, which can compress nerves and lead to pain, numbness, or tingling in the head and neck area. This is particularly relevant if you have a history of poor posture or prolonged periods of sitting, such as when working at a computer. The neck's position can significantly affect nerve function and blood flow, leading to the symptoms you describe.
Another consideration is tension-type headaches, which can often be exacerbated by stress, anxiety, or prolonged muscle tension. Given your mention of feeling dizzy and having unclear consciousness, it is also essential to consider the possibility of migraines or other headache disorders. Migraines can sometimes present with aura symptoms, including visual disturbances or sensory changes, which might explain your feelings of dizziness and altered awareness.
Your blood pressure readings of 110/65 mmHg and a pulse rate in the 50s could indicate bradycardia, especially if you are experiencing symptoms like dizziness or faintness. While low blood pressure can be normal for some individuals, it can also lead to insufficient blood flow to the brain, causing dizziness and confusion. It would be prudent to monitor these readings and discuss them with a healthcare provider, especially given your history as a hepatitis B carrier, which could complicate your overall health status.
Additionally, your symptoms could be related to anxiety or stress, which can manifest physically in various ways, including muscle tension and altered perception. If you find yourself in high-stress situations or have a history of anxiety, this could be a contributing factor to your symptoms.
Given your concerns, it is crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare professional. A neurologist would be well-suited to assess your symptoms, potentially ordering imaging studies such as an MRI of the cervical spine to evaluate for any structural issues. Blood tests may also be warranted to check for anemia or other metabolic concerns, especially considering your history of hepatitis B.
In the meantime, consider lifestyle modifications that may alleviate some of your symptoms. Regular physical activity, particularly exercises that strengthen the neck and improve posture, can be beneficial. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation may help reduce muscle tension and anxiety.
In summary, while your symptoms could arise from various causes, including cervical spine issues, tension-type headaches, or anxiety, a thorough evaluation is essential to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Your health history, including being a hepatitis B carrier, should be taken into account during this assessment. Please consult with a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms in detail and explore the best course of action for your health.
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