OpenHealth Q&A

Seeking Guidance on Which Physician to Consult First

**Age:** 42 **Gender:** Female **Height:** 5'6" **Weight:** 167 lbs **Ethnicity:** Caucasian **Main Concerns:** I’m currently facing several health challenges which I’ll outline briefly. Firstly, there’s persistent discomfort in my neck that starts at the base of my skull on the left and extends to my shoulder. While this may just be a muscle strain, I’m uncertain. Additionally, I endure nerve pain that travels from my legs to my arms, a condition I’ve coped with for over 18 years. The sensitivity in my extremities has become more pronounced lately, particularly the tingling sensation in my legs. If I remain seated for more than 15 minutes, I experience intense tingling and numbness, prompting me to stand up for some relief, though it never fully goes away. I’ve experimented with compression socks for nearly a year, but they haven’t yielded significant results. I suspect I may be dealing with some form of neuropathy, which has proven quite difficult to pinpoint. Unfortunately, medical diagnostics are quite costly, and without insurance, I can’t afford the tests needed for a formal diagnosis, especially since they often come with exorbitant deductibles. Light exercise has been somewhat beneficial, yet not as effective as I had hoped. Recently, I’ve noticed new symptoms such as numbness in my tongue and lips, increased headache intensity, and an eye twitch on my left side, which could possibly relate to heightened blood pressure from stress. **Duration:** I’ve dealt with nerve pain for over 18 years; neck pain has persisted for almost two weeks. The heightened ‘pins and needles’ sensation has been more frequent over the last few days, along with the new numbness in my tongue and lips. **Pre-existing Conditions:** I have gluten intolerance and possibly celiac disease, although I lack a formal diagnosis due to financial constraints on testing. Even minor gluten exposure leads to severe gastrointestinal distress, nausea, headaches, and more. I also have ADHD, chronic depression, and suspected neuropathy issues. **Current Medications:** I am taking Lamictal at 80 mg, Adderall XR at 30 mg, and Semaglutide at about 24 mg (I hope I’ve gotten these dosages correct). **Substance Use:** I indulge in an occasional margarita a few times yearly. I previously consumed half a delta-8 (300 mg) gummy each night to aid with sleep, given my chronic leg pain; however, I halted this use after my symptoms worsened, and abstaining for six months showed no difference in my condition. Thus, I’ve decided to maintain my abstinence for now. **Lifestyle Choices:** I acknowledge that I am overweight and am actively working towards improving my health. I have made considerable adjustments to my diet, focusing on proper hydration, vitamins, and incorporating plenty of fruits and leafy vegetables. I understand the drawbacks of diet sodas and am working to minimize their consumption. I frequently favor poultry, fish, and vegetables for protein and limit red meat, reserving steak for an occasional monthly treat. Although I consume starches like white rice and some processed foods, I make an effort to choose healthier frozen meal options. I also indulge in sugar and honey in moderation. I’m reaching out to see if anyone has dealt with similar symptoms or can recommend a specific type of doctor to see. I’ve done my best to provide all relevant information, but please let me know if additional details are needed.

Answers (1)

3/17/2025, 6:50:57 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you are facing a complex array of health challenges, including persistent neck discomfort, nerve pain, and new symptoms that are concerning. Given the range of symptoms you describe, including the recent numbness in your tongue and increased headache intensity, it's important to take a structured approach.

Overview of Key Points:

1. Your main symptoms include neck pain, nerve pain, tingling, and recent numbness.
2. The duration of your nerve pain and new symptoms raises some urgency for assessment.
3. Addressing your concerns about financial constraints and diagnostics is crucial.

Explanation:

• Neck Pain: This could stem from muscle strain or issues related to nerves in your cervical spine.
• Nerve Pain and Tingling: Your long-term symptoms might suggest neuropathy, which can come from various factors including potential vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, or compression in the spine.
• New Symptoms: The recent numbness in your tongue and lips, combined with headaches, warrants careful evaluation to rule out serious concerns that may require immediate attention.

Next Steps:

1. Consult a Neurologist First: Given the complexity of your symptoms and the possibility of neuropathy, a neurologist is well-equipped to evaluate nerve-related issues. They may provide tests relevant to your symptoms and suggest treatment options without needing extensive upfront diagnostics.

2. Seek Conservative Approaches:

   • Pain Management: While waiting to see a neurologist, consider over-the-counter pain relief options like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) if suitable for you.
   • Gentle Exercise: Continue with light exercise that enhances blood flow and reduces stiffness, such as walking or stretching, while being cautious of positions that exacerbate your symptoms.

3. Symptom Diary: Keep a diary noting when symptoms occur, their intensity, and any changes with positions or activities. This can help both you and the doctor pinpoint patterns and potential triggers.

4. Dietary Adjustments: You are already working on your diet, which is excellent! Maintain focus on nutrient-dense foods, and consider discussing vitamin levels (like B vitamins and vitamin D) with your healthcare provider, as deficiencies can contribute to nerve pain and symptoms.

5. Manage Stress: Since stress can exacerbate headaches and other symptoms, consider incorporating stress-relief practices like mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your routine.

Final Thoughts:

I understand your situation is challenging, especially with financial constraints. Seeking help from a neurologist could be the first critical step in identifying and addressing your symptoms effectively. You're taking positive steps with your diet and lifestyle, and continuing this journey will surely be beneficial. If you need more specific assistance or ideas later, feel free to ask!