OpenHealth Q&A

Strange Symptoms: Numbness, Body Twitches, and Unexplained Forehead Lump

A 31-year-old woman diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism is experiencing an unusual set of symptoms. **Current Medications:** - Tirosint 75 mcg three times a week - Topamax 100 mg daily - Nurtec as needed - Minoxidil 2.5 mg daily On Monday evening, a noticeable bump appeared on her forehead; it was unexpected since there had been no prior indication of it. Initially thinking it might be a bug bite that would resolve on its own, she soon realized it remained consistent. The bump is subtle but palpable when she touches it. Later that night, she began to feel discomfort in her left leg, which she suspected might be sciatica. However, the sensation evolved into a severe burning and tingling sensation, leading to profound numbness in her leg, hip, and foot, and, subsequently, in her left arm and hand. After attempting to alleviate discomfort by placing a pillow between her knees, she went to sleep. By the next day, the numbness persisted, extending to her neck and face, with the troubling nature being that it fluctuates between areas without relief. Eventually, similar sensations started in her right side affecting her arm, hand, hip, foot, and leg. Concerned, she contacted her primary care physician's office for a same-day appointment regarding her numbness. During the commute, she noticed her right hand twitching noticeably, akin to a heartbeat visible above her thumb, involving all fingers. Shortly afterward, her left hand also began slight twitching but to a lesser degree. At her appointment, she showcased her twitching hand to the doctor. Given her history of migraines, the ongoing headaches were mentioned, but since she frequently experiences migraines, it was considered an existing issue rather than related to her current symptoms. Notably, the hand twitching persisted throughout the day, starting around 2 PM and continuing unabated into the night around 9 or 10 PM. A blood test was conducted, and she was informed that arrangements for a brain MRI would be made for the following day. However, upon attempting to schedule the MRI, she was told there would be a two-week wait. Despite her doctor’s attempts to expedite the process, a stat order could not be approved. Although the option of visiting the emergency room was suggested, it was unclear if an MRI would be granted there. As of Friday, results from the earlier blood work had yet to arrive. Additionally, she began experiencing involuntary body jerks, including sudden movements of her arms and legs. She proceeded to the ER, where the necessity for an MRI was acknowledged, but the hospital confirmed they were unable to perform one through the emergency department. Instead, they conducted blood tests and a CT scan of the head, yielding no conclusive results, and she was discharged. That night, she experienced multiple tremors throughout her body. Upon examining her reflexes, the PCP noted signs of hyperreflexia, adding another layer of concern. Despite numerous tests and consultations, no concrete explanations have been provided regarding her condition, leaving her feeling uncertain. The PCP’s only response was a lack of knowledge, while a hospital doctor mentioned the possibility of electrolyte imbalances, though her blood work appeared normal. This absence of clarity regarding her symptoms is particularly stress-inducing, and she fears waiting weeks for an MRI might delay identifying the issue. With an existing autoimmune disorder, she worries about the possibility of conditions such as MS, prompting her to seek alternative recommendations rather than enduring prolonged uncertainty.

Answers (1)

6/28/2025, 2:40:57 PM

OpenHealth AI

I'm sorry to hear you're facing such distressing symptoms and uncertainties. Let's break down your situation while focusing on what you can do in the meantime.

Main Points:

1. You have experienced a range of concerning neurological symptoms (numbness, twitching, and tremors) alongside a recent forehead lump.
2. You are already under the care of your healthcare providers, but delays in diagnostic imaging are causing anxiety and uncertainty.

Explanation:

Your symptoms, including the sudden numbness and twitching, can stem from various factors, especially given your existing diagnosis of Hashimoto's disease, which indicates an autoimmune component. The lump on your forehead also requires evaluation, as it could be unrelated or part of a broader issue. The primary concerns are:

• Neurological symptoms (like numbness and twitching) can indicate nerve irritation or damage, which might be caused by various conditions, including autoimmunity.
• The forehead lump may require examination to rule out infections, cysts, or other benign conditions.

Next Steps:

1. Symptom Monitoring:

   • Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their duration, and the effects of any self-care measures you've taken. This will help healthcare providers assess your condition more accurately.

2. Maximize Comfort:

   • For the burning and tingling sensations, consider gentle stretching and positioning like placing cushions under affected areas, which may help reduce discomfort.
   • Use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or guided imagery to manage stress. Anxiety can worsen physical symptoms.

3. Immediate Follow-Up:

   • If your symptoms worsen (such as increasing numbness or difficulty moving), or if new symptoms like severe headaches or changes in consciousness arise, seek immediate medical attention.
   • Contact your healthcare provider about the urgency of getting the MRI, emphasizing the concerns over evolving neurological symptoms. If possible, inquire about options to expedite this process or alternate imaging methods.

4. Nutrition and Hydration:

   • Ensure you are well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, particularly those that support nerve health (such as B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids).
   • Monitor any potential changes in your condition with adjustments in diet.

5. Electrolyte Balance:

   • While your recent blood work appeared normal, consider consuming electrolyte-rich foods or drinks (like bananas for potassium, and nuts for magnesium) as part of your diet, and ensure adequate hydration.

Conclusion:

Your situation is understandably distressing, but focusing on managing your symptoms and maintaining communication with your healthcare providers can help. If your symptoms persist or worsen before getting definitive answers from the MRI or follow-up blood tests, consider exploring options at a different facility or a specialized care center that may offer quicker access to necessary diagnoses.

Take care, and I hope you find relief soon. Let me know if you have more questions or need further clarification on any aspect.