Numbness on the Left Side: A Personal Account
At 24 years old, I find myself without any prior health issues and not on any medications. I don’t smoke, rarely drink, and haven’t used recreational drugs, though I do vape 10MG Nicotine salts. For the past couple of years, I’ve experienced persistent numbness in my left arm and face. Initially, everyone attributed it to anxiety, and I never really pushed the issue, perhaps due to the difficulty of being taken seriously as a young woman. Recently, however, a cardiologist finally listened and conducted a 24-hour Holter monitor test and an echocardiogram, both of which returned normal results. I also have a tilt table test scheduled for April. Over the past week, I’ve noticed the numbness intensifying, now extending to my left leg. Despite there being no observable droop, it feels unusual, almost weak, yet I retain full sensation and strength. This sensation is confined to my left side and has never affected the right. Today has been particularly challenging as I’ve been battling a headache alongside the numbness. Additionally, I've been referred to a long COVID clinic due to a variety of symptoms that have persisted since my initial COVID infection in 2022, but I’m still waiting to hear back from them. My experience is further complicated by heart palpitations, including PVCs and PACs, and a rapid heartbeat after meals, making me anxious about eating. I also suffer from headaches and migraines, and I’ve recently found that I require glasses. My digestive system seems erratic—I have bouts of constipation followed by excessive bathroom visits, along with indigestion and occasional shortness of breath felt around my stomach area, though my oxygen levels always remain above 97%. I experience pulsatile tinnitus, and general tinnitus, too. It feels like I never catch a simple cold anymore; instead, I endure a month-long malaise that leaves me feeling utterly drained. I’m at a point of confusion and frustration; this numbness is distressing, especially considering my maternal grandmother’s history of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and ischemic strokes. At 24, I can’t continue living like this. I feel lost about whom to approach for help regarding my symptoms. My last blood test was on February 12, and another is due soon because my white blood cell count was elevated at 11.2. They plan to retest that and check my vitamin levels and thyroid health as well. Could this all be attributed to anxiety? For the record, I have diagnoses of OCD and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (health-related), but my anxiety seems less relevant now compared to the anger and frustration stemming from my daily struggles. My weight has drastically changed from 71KG to 57KG, and I feel completely miserable.
Answers (1)
3/22/2025, 11:21:12 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing complex and distressing symptoms that are significantly impacting your quality of life. Your concerns about numbness, headaches, heart palpitations, and gastrointestinal issues are valid and deserve thorough investigation, especially given your family history. Let's break down your concerns and establish actionable steps.
Key Points:
- Persistent Numbness: Your left-sided numbness is concerning, particularly with your family history.
- Other Symptoms: Headaches, heart palpitations, gastrointestinal issues, and anxiety all contribute to your distress.
- Ongoing Investigations: You've had some tests that returned normal results, and further evaluations are pending.
Explanation:
Numbness on one side of the body can arise from various causes, including neurological issues, vascular problems, or anxiety-related symptoms. Given your family history of TIAs and strokes, it’s wise to take these symptoms seriously. The intensifying numbness and weakness extending from your arm to your leg is notable and should be evaluated alongside your other symptoms.
Your history of anxiety and OCD may contribute to feelings of distress, but it is crucial to explore physiological causes. The fluctuating weight and gastrointestinal symptoms also signal that your body might be under stress or that there are underlying concerns that need addressing.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Journal: Keep a detailed diary documenting the numbness, headaches, palpitations, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Note the frequency, duration, and any triggers. This will be valuable information for your healthcare providers.
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Follow-Up on Test Results: You mentioned an elevated white blood cell count and plans for retesting. Keep track of your blood tests, and make sure to discuss the possibility of any nutritional deficiencies or thyroid issues that could be contributing to your symptoms.
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Consult with a Neurologist: Given your specific symptoms, consider requesting a referral to a neurologist, especially to evaluate the numbness and rule out any neurological conditions, including potential sequelae from COVID-19.
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Cardiologist Follow-Up: Since you are experiencing heart palpitations and rapid heartbeat after meals, it might be helpful to discuss these symptoms further with your cardiologist during your upcoming appointments.
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Mental Health Support: Continue engaging with mental health resources. Since your anxiety seems compounded by your physical symptoms, addressing anxiety through therapy or support groups may help alleviate some distress.
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Nutrition and Weight Management: Work on gradual weight restoration and balanced nutrition, aiming for three balanced meals a day. Consider consulting a dietitian if your eating patterns are erratic due to anxiety or gastrointestinal issues.
It's important to seek care and not lose hope. You're not alone in this, and tackling one issue at a time can lead to improvements in your overall well-being. If symptoms worsen or you experience new concerning symptoms like sudden weakness or severe headaches, seek immediate medical attention.
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