Struggling to Walk After Overdose
I’m a 24-year-old woman, standing at 5'6" and weighing 175 pounds. For daily relief, I've been using vaping regularly and managing my mental health with medications—Lexapro, Wellbutrin, Klonopin, Hydroxyzine, Ritalin, Vyvanse, Lamictal, and Vraylar. Until recently, I didn’t have any significant health issues. However, I find myself in a troubling situation. Eight days ago, I experienced an overdose involving stimulants (Dexedrine 30 mg, Azstarys 39.2 mg/7.8 mg, and Ritalin 30 mg), compounded by taking 1 mg of Klonopin the night before. I also take various medications to cope with bipolar disorder and anxiety. Shortly after overdosing, I was unable to walk unassisted and was transported on a stretcher. My hospitalization lasted four days, during which I could only manage to walk with the aid of a walker and a gait belt. Currently, I've regained some strength and can walk with a cane during the day, yet my gait remains abnormal. It’s as if my knees are locked straight, dragging my legs forward, and my feet tend to angle outward—resembling a clumsy style of walking. As evening approaches, around 6 PM, my ability to walk deteriorates; I find it hard to stand and my strength wanes significantly, accompanied by discomfort. During the day, I periodically experience mild pain (rated around a 3 out of 10) in one or both legs, characterized by burning sensations and a tingling feeling from my knees down to my toes. However, by nighttime, particularly when lying down, the pain intensifies dramatically. I experience severe burning and stabbing pains from the top of my thighs to my toes, compounded by the tingling in my feet. Overall, my legs feel unbearably painful. My doctor is concerned and mentioned that these symptoms should have resolved by now, given that it has been over a week since the overdose, and she has suggested I see a neurologist. I’m anxious and curious to know if others think my symptoms might be neurological in nature. What specific issues do these experiences suggest? Additionally, my legs feel incredibly heavy, and I feel as if my brain isn’t effectively communicating with them, making movement a struggle. In brief: I overdosed on stimulants, am currently using a cane to walk, and have noticed my difficulties with walking worsen as night falls. The pain in my legs also escalates during the night. I have been referred to a neurologist for further evaluation. On a positive note, I recognized the need for help after this incident, so I have started attending Narcotics Anonymous meetings daily and undergoing weekly therapy sessions. I am proud to say I have achieved one week of sobriety!
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 6:01:24 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear that you're taking positive steps towards recovery, and I commend you on your week of sobriety. Your situation is understandably concerning, especially given the symptoms you're experiencing following the overdose. Let's address what you're feeling.
Main Points:
- Your motor difficulties and pain may have neurological origins related to the overdose.
- It's essential to track your symptoms and prepare for your upcoming evaluation with the neurologist.
- Focus on self-care strategies that may help alleviate some of your discomfort.
Explanation:
After an overdose, particularly with stimulants like Dexedrine, Ritalin, and Klonopin, it's possible for the nervous system to be affected, leading to symptoms like difficulty walking, abnormal gait, and pain or tingling sensations in your legs. The heavy, clumsy feeling in your legs and the worsening symptoms in the evening could indicate neurological involvement, as your doctor suggested.
These effects can stem from various factors, including:
- Medication Side Effects: Both stimulants and benzodiazepines can impact motor control and may cause residual effects after an overdose.
- Nerve Irritation or Damage: This could explain the tingling and painful sensations, particularly if any nerve pathways were affected during the incident.
- Muscle Fatigue or Spasticity: The heaviness you’re feeling may be related to muscle fatigue or tightness following your ordeal.
Next Steps:
-
Keep a Symptom Diary: Document your symptoms daily, noting any changes in pain, strength, or ability to walk. Include when symptoms worsen or improve, as this information can be invaluable for your neurologist.
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Monitor Your Pain Levels and Activities: Take note of your routines, such as when you start to feel discomfort or weakness. This will help you identify patterns and triggers.
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Engage in Gentle Movement: As you're able, try to do light stretching and mobility exercises during the day. Gentle movement can help maintain flexibility and reduce discomfort. Consider physical therapy if recommended by your doctor.
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Address Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen could help with mild pain. However, consult with your doctor for personalized pain management, especially due to your medication regimen.
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Prioritize Rest and Recovery: Given that symptoms seem to worsen in the evening, ensure you allow adequate rest during the day to conserve energy for later. Establish a calming nighttime routine to help with sleep and recovery.
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Prepare for your Neurologist Visit: Bring all your medications and a list of your symptoms, including how they've changed since the overdose. Be open about your recovery journey, as this context will help your neurologist understand your situation more fully.
Remember that it’s essential to stay positive but also vigilant about your health as you move through recovery. Please take care of yourself and reach out if you have more questions or need further support.
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