Is It Anxiety or Something More? Numb Tongue and Swallowing Issues
Greetings, everyone! I'm a 31-year-old female, standing at 172 cm and weighing 62 kg. Currently, I am not on any medication, I don’t consume alcohol, and I recently quit smoking. As for my health background, I have been dealing with anxiety, particularly related to health issues, and I’m engaging in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for that. I also experience tinnitus and have a history of GERD and gastritis, with occasional flare-ups. Thankfully, I have no known allergies. On January 1st, I experienced an incident which led me to believe I was having a reaction to a topical skin treatment. During this episode, my tongue felt like it was swelling or losing feeling, although visually it appeared unchanged. It is more correct to describe the sensation as large rather than numb, although it's challenging to define. At times, I found swallowing to be somewhat strenuous, yet it wasn’t painful. Since that day, I’ve noticed this sensation reappears under specific circumstances: particularly after drinking anything other than water—often right after the first sip—and occasionally a few hours post-meal. This seems more associated with anxiety or possibly an allergic response, and I’ve experienced two severe panic attacks that lasted several hours. Additionally, sometimes I notice discomfort in my tongue or throat long after eating, which seems to coincide with mild GERD symptoms, prompting me to seek help from a gastroenterologist. Testing revealed that I have a vitamin B9 deficiency, though my B12 levels were normal, and other tests including blood and stool analysis yielded fine results. I’ve started taking a folic acid supplement. The doctor recommended antacids and omeprazole for my mild GERD, but due to my health anxiety, I've been reluctant to start medications. I was also referred to an allergist. After consulting two allergists, one suggested I try an antihistamine called ebastine for ten days to assess any improvement. I hesitated to take this new medication due to concerns about a potential placebo effect. I opted to see another allergist, who conducted a blood test (IgE levels were normal, about 37, with the threshold being <100) and advised me to use an orally-dissolved desloratadine when needed, suggesting it may offer some benefits. However, I’ve been hesitant to try it because I've read about allergic reactions associated with that medication and the potential for placebo responses. At this point, I'm considering several pathways: 1. Start addressing my GERD to see if that alleviates my symptoms; 2. Experiment with an antihistamine, preferably Claritin since I’ve used that before, but the doctor is steering me towards the desloratadine (Blogir), though that prospect makes me anxious; 3. Explore additional allergy tests (though they may not be covered by insurance); 4. Begin anxiety treatment with an SSRI and hydroxyzine, as prescribed by my psychiatrist, which I plan to pursue regardless of other outcomes since CBT alone hasn’t sufficiently mitigated my symptoms; 5. Consult a different type of specialist, perhaps a neurologist. My mother has suggested I should get a neck MRI, although she isn’t a medical professional—just someone who reads extensively about health issues. I would greatly appreciate any insights or advice on this situation! Thank you in advance!
Answers (1)
3/19/2025, 9:10:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed by multiple symptoms and potential treatment options, especially with a history of anxiety and GERD. Your experience with numbness in your tongue and swallowing issues can be distressing, but you're taking significant steps to seek clarity.
Summary of Main Points:
- Your symptoms may stem from a combination of anxiety and GERD.
- Addressing GERD and considering allergy responses are valid approaches.
- Trying antihistamines or anxiety medications can be beneficial but should be cautiously approached.
Explanation:
The sensation in your tongue and difficulty swallowing could be related to several factors, including anxiety, GERD aggravation, or a potential allergic response. Given your ongoing issues with GERD, it’s possible that stomach acid could be affecting your throat and mouth sensations. Additionally, anxiety can manifest physically, aggravating symptoms related to your throat and swallowing.
Your vitamin B9 deficiency is notable, as it can contribute to other symptoms like fatigue or mood changes. However, improving this with supplementation may take time, and its direct impact on your current sensations might not be immediate.
Prioritized Next Steps:
- Start GERD Management: Begin taking the antacids and omeprazole as recommended by your doctor. This could help reduce acid reflux, which may alleviate some discomfort in your throat and tongue over time.
- Consider Antihistamines: If you are willing, starting the desloratadine as advised could help assess if allergies contribute to your symptoms. It’s common to feel anxious about starting new medications, but many find relief when trying them.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a log of your symptoms, including when they occur relative to eating or drinking, and any new medications you start. This can help you and your doctors identify links or triggers.
- Consult a Specialist: Continuing with both the allergist and considering the psychiatrist’s suggestions for anxiety treatment (like an SSRI) are important in treating the overall picture of your symptoms.
- Explore Anxiety Treatments: Since cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) hasn’t fully alleviated your symptoms, initiating an SSRI or hydroxyzine could provide additional help with anxiety and related symptoms.
Engaging in relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or breathing exercises may also help manage anxiety levels as you navigate this process. Remember, it's okay to lean on healthcare professionals for support as you explore these options. You are making positive strides toward understanding and managing your health. Please let me know if you have any more questions or need further clarification on any point!
Related Questions
Navigating Alcohol Consumption While on Antidepressants
I am currently prescribed Escitalopram at a dosage of 10mg and Trazodone 50mg, which I take before bed for my mental health. Additionally, I use Clonazepam to help manage my anxiety. Earlier today, I joined a few friends for a social gathering where we had some drinks. I informed them that due to my medication, I usually avoid alcohol; however, I opted to have a single beer so I could participate in the festivities without feeling out of place. Now, approximately three hours later, I do not sense any lingering effects of alcohol. If there were any, they are quite subtle. My question is: Is it safe for me to take my medications in light of this?
Concerns About Potential Brain Damage at 16
To begin, I’d like to clarify that I’m currently located in Europe, where I observe that many individuals in my environment engage in more extreme behaviors than I do, even as I strive to partake in social activities without crossing the line into recklessness. My journey with alcohol commenced at the age of 14, albeit in a very mild manner. By the time I turned 15, I started drinking more regularly, making sure to space out my experiences approximately weekly to monthly, totaling around ten instances of intoxication. Notably, I noticed I had an adverse physical reaction to alcohol—specifically, skin flush the following day—which prompted me to transition to cannabis as it felt easier on my body. I limited my cannabis use to weekends while adhering to similar spacing, with one exception. At 16, I found myself smoking almost every day for a week after a particular incident, but I was able to regain control thereafter. When I was 15, I also experimented with psilocybin mushrooms on two occasions, which proved to be positive experiences and made me realize I needed to cut back on alcohol consumption. Recently, I had a successful experience with 150 micrograms of LSD after careful preparation. This evening, I intend to consume half an edible instead of resorting to drinking or smoking, aiming to increase my intervals between substances to once a month at a minimum while maintaining a healthy lifestyle as an athlete. Despite my efforts, my naturally anxious disposition makes me concerned about anything that may cause irreversible damage to my brain, including, for instance, excessive screen time. I would greatly value insights from professionals regarding these worries. For context: I’m 16 years old, assigned female at birth but have been on testosterone for seven months, standing at 5'4" and weighing 125 pounds.
Concerns about HSV Transmission During Nasal Suctioning for My Baby
Recently, I experienced my first cold sore at the age of 29, appearing at the edge of my lower lip. With a three-month-old infant, I have been particularly cautious, believing that the herpes simplex virus (HSV) is transmitted solely through direct contact. I made sure to avoid kissing my baby and kept my distance. On her three-month birthday, she woke in the early morning with significant nasal congestion. Feeling exhausted, I instinctively reached for the Frida nasal suction, my usual go-to in such situations. While using the device, I made sure my cold sore was not in contact with it. Typically, I only use the suction in her nostrils, afterward blowing air onto my hand to check for any mucus and then continuing the process. However, as I performed this task, I began to question whether I was potentially spreading the virus; my research revealed that HSV can indeed be transmitted through saliva. Although most of my usage was suctioning, I realized I had occasionally blown into the tube to assess its effectiveness before resuming suction. Naturally, I'm feeling anxious and regretful for not thoroughly considering the risks involved. Additionally, I learned that my illness may have contributed to my cold sore, and now I suspect my baby may also be coming down with something—her first cold has me quite worried. I took precautions by wearing a mask, and throughout the week, she seemed unaffected. Being a breastfeeding mother, I hope she has received ample antibodies to help her. I would greatly appreciate any insights on whether I need to be alarmed or if there are specific signs I should monitor. Thank you for your assistance!
Uncertainty Surrounding My Health Incident
I am a 15-year-old girl currently battling a cold, and I also have a confirmed diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Additionally, I suspect I may have POTS, although that's not officially confirmed. Earlier today, I got up to visit the bathroom, which requires navigating around twenty steps from the living room. As I stood up, I noticed my vision starting to blur, but that’s a familiar sensation for me, so I didn’t think anything was amiss. Upon reaching the bathroom, my eyesight faded to complete darkness. Losing my sight entirely isn’t unusual for me, and while frustrating, I merely found it bothersome rather than alarming. Once inside, I turned on the light, and although I couldn’t see it illuminating the room, I heard the click of the switch, indicating it was on. I then attempted to locate the sliding door to close it. However, I misjudged the doorway completely on my first try. I felt it was odd, yet I dismissed it and tried again, but I encountered the same issue. After my second attempt, I experienced significant trembling in my limbs, so intense that I realized I was on the verge of falling. To prevent that, I quickly lowered myself to the floor, remaining blind to my surroundings. After about five seconds, my vision began to return, and I noticed my legs were still shaking. A few seconds later, the shaking subsided, and I regained control over my body. I stood up right after, feeling relatively assured that it wouldn’t happen again, but I opted to sit for safety's sake. This event occurred just a couple of hours ago, and thankfully, it hasn't recurred. Although my vision tends to dim when I stand, that is a typical occurrence for me, and I’ve since retained partial sight. I did not lose consciousness during the incident and have clear memories of the entire experience, without confusion or disorientation afterward. Notably, epilepsy runs in my family; my aunt has it, and my mother’s cousin experienced several seizures a few months back, although he hasn’t had any recently. Personally, I have never fainted, though I’ve come close multiple times. It’s important to mention that I’ve never experienced a seizure before, and I remain uncertain whether what transpired was a seizure or something different altogether.
Navigating the Fine Line Between Anxiety and ADHD: Seeking Insights on Dual Diagnoses
At 28 years old, I find myself seeking a better understanding of whether my primary challenges stem from anxiety, ADHD, or perhaps a combination of both. From a young age, I have experienced difficulties with focus, restlessness, impatience, and discomfort in social situations. These challenges didn’t suddenly arise in adulthood; instead, I recall struggling to pay attention in class, often needing to reread material multiple times. I frequently felt as if my brain was racing, easily becoming overwhelmed by background noise, conversations, or any form of pressure. Currently, reading continues to be a struggle, as I often rush through texts without fully absorbing the information. The same pattern emerges in tasks like problem-solving and programming—I require repeated attempts to truly grasp the concepts. In addition, I have dealt with considerable anxiety throughout my life, characterized by fears of being judged, persistent worry, heightened alertness, compulsive behaviors like constant checking, and physical manifestations such as agitation and a racing heart. After consultations with various healthcare professionals, I was diagnosed with anxiety, leading to medication that I began taking about a year ago. This treatment alleviated some fears and allowed me to function better, yet the fundamental challenges related to focus, motivation, impatience, and mental agitation persisted. When I abruptly halted the medication, my anxiety symptoms returned with a vengeance. My current psychiatrist initially viewed my situation as stemming from anxiety and traits of OCD, recommencing treatment for anxiety. However, by our third appointment, considering my symptoms have been present since childhood and the anxiety treatment only provided partial relief, he proposed that ADHD might be the root issue, suggesting that anxiety could possibly be a secondary concern. Thus, I am now prescribed medications addressing both anxiety and ADHD. What complicates my understanding is the significant overlap in symptoms: - Persistent mental restlessness and a sense of being "on edge" - Challenges in maintaining attention and completing tasks - Low drive, tendencies to avoid tasks, and procrastination - Social anxiety coupled with fear of judgment - Feeling overwhelmed by sounds, conversations, or stressors - Anxiety medications mitigate fear but do not resolve focus issues or cognitive restlessness I seek clarity on the following questions: 1. How do medical professionals distinguish between adult ADHD and anxiety disorders when the symptomatology is so intertwined? 2. What methods can help determine if ADHD is the primary issue rather than anxiety taking precedence? 3. Is it typical for ADHD, particularly when undiagnosed since childhood, to predominantly manifest as anxiety in adulthood? 4. How can one assess whether ADHD medication is effectively making a difference, especially with concurrent anxiety symptoms? Any professional insights on delineating these conditions in adults—especially when their roots appear to date back to childhood—would be immensely beneficial. Thank you for your attention and assistance.