Is This Not a Cause for Concern?
Greetings, I am a 37-year-old female, weighing 196 pounds and standing at 5'2". I have type 2 diabetes and am currently not on any medications. Recently, I received a positive result for an ANA test with a speckled pattern, only to be told by my doctor that the test lacks significance. Additionally, my CT scan revealed several nonspecific lesions on my brain. After being admitted for symptoms resembling a stroke—though it was not classified as a stroke—my CT report indicated a mild irregularity in the C2 segment of the right vertebral artery. The report mentioned that while this finding could be an artifact, the possibility of narrowing or dissection could not be ruled out and suggested a follow-up MR angiogram for more detailed assessment. Unfortunately, my appointment with a neurologist is not until June, which has been a major source of stress for me. Should I feel this way? I did ask my primary care physician to arrange the MR angiogram, but I haven’t received a response regarding it. Why do they seem to be treating this situation lightly? I'm experiencing troubling symptoms—though no formal diagnosis has been made. I have tingling sensations in my hands and feet, occasional neck pain accompanied by tingling, episodes where my face feels numb, and visual disturbances similar to afterimages. I also experience weakness in both my arms and legs intermittently. My doctor attributes these symptoms to anxiety and stress and describes them as nonspecific. In light of my worries, I'm exploring options like Prenuvo and Ezra scans.
Answers (1)
4/4/2025, 8:10:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing significant anxiety regarding your health, especially after receiving concerning results from tests and experiencing various symptoms. It's completely understandable to feel stressed when faced with so many uncertainties. Let’s break down the key points and provide some actionable steps to help you navigate this situation.
Main Points:
- You have multiple concerning symptoms and test results that need follow-up.
- Your current stress and anxiety about your health are completely valid.
- It's important to advocate for your health and ensure necessary tests are performed.
Explanation: The positive ANA test can indicate autoimmune conditions, but it is indeed nonspecific, meaning it doesn’t necessarily point to a particular disease on its own. Your CT findings and symptoms suggest that further imaging, like an MR angiogram, is warranted to rule out any serious issues with your blood vessels, especially given the mention of irregularities in the vertebral artery.
Your symptoms, including tingling, numbness, and weakness, can stem from various causes, including potential neurological issues. While it's common for doctors to attribute some symptoms to anxiety, it’s essential to have a comprehensive evaluation to rule out any serious conditions.
Next Steps:
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Follow up on the MR Angiogram: Reach out to your primary care physician again, clearly expressing the urgency due to your symptoms. If you don’t receive a prompt response, consider asking for a referral to a different facility for the angiogram or express that you’re feeling significant anxiety about the timeline.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Document your symptoms daily—note their frequency, duration, and any triggers you observe. This can help you communicate more effectively with your healthcare team.
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Seek Immediate Attention if Symptoms Worsen: If you experience any severe symptoms, such as intense weakness, sudden changes in vision, or severe headaches, seek medical evaluation urgently.
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Find Support: Consider talking to a mental health professional about your anxiety, as it can be beneficial to have coping strategies and support while you wait for further evaluations.
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Research and Prepare for Your Neurology Appointment: Make a list of your symptoms, questions, and concerns to bring to your neurologist. This can help ensure that your visit is focused and effective when it occurs.
It’s important to advocate for your health and ensure that your voice is heard in the medical system. Taking proactive steps can help manage the uncertainty you're feeling. You deserve answers and clarity regarding your health.
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