Seeking Guidance on Neurological Symptoms
A 22-year-old male currently on a daily dosage of 5mg Trintellix and taking Ativan 1mg as needed recently faced a distressing situation. After experiencing an intense panic attack linked to marijuana use, he rushed to the emergency room. This incident left him with a concerning numbness and tingling in his right arm and the right side of his face, prompting fear of a possible stroke or similar condition. After undergoing various laboratory tests at the hospital, he was reassured and released, with the diagnosis indicating that the sensations stemmed from a panic attack. In hindsight, he recalled an incident from a few weeks prior where he inadvertently cracked his neck with some force; this did not cause him immediate pain or notable symptoms at the time. Regrettably, he neglected to mention this detail to the healthcare professionals during his visit, leading him to wonder if it might have influenced their assessment of his situation. Notably, no imaging studies were conducted. Since his trip to the ER, he has experienced only brain fog, and while the numbness persisted the following day, it has since improved significantly. He is now seeking advice on whether further action is necessary or if he can feel assured about his current condition.
Answers (1)
3/24/2025, 2:20:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It seems you're feeling relief after receiving reassurance from the hospital but are still grappling with uncertainty about your symptoms and their causes. Based on your description, it appears the numbness and tingling you experienced were related to a panic attack, especially since those sensations have improved since then. However, your concern about your neck injury and how it relates to your current sensations is valid.
Explanation
Panic attacks can cause a variety of physical symptoms due to heightened anxiety, including numbness and tingling. It's good that you sought emergency care, where tests ruled out immediate neurological concerns. The neck cracking may or may not be related; while injuries can cause neurological symptoms, it's essential not to jump to conclusions without further evidence.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any recurring or new symptoms, including brain fog, numbness, or tingling. Note when they occur and any potential triggers (e.g., stress, specific activities).
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Relaxation Techniques: Focus on managing anxiety, as continued panic can exacerbate physical sensations. Consider practicing mindfulness, controlled breathing, or meditation to help reduce stress.
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Follow-Up Care: If you have continued symptoms or if they worsen (e.g., persistence of brain fog, re-emergence of numbness), it may be helpful to discuss these with a healthcare provider, particularly a neurologist if symptoms persist. Mention the neck incident and any other relevant history.
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Limit Stimulants: Be cautious with substances like marijuana if they previously triggered distressing episodes. Understand your triggers to better manage anxiety and panic.
Taking these steps can help you feel more in control and may alleviate concerns about your health. Remember, it's important to listen to your body and reach out for help if your symptoms continue to trouble you.
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