Prolonged Leg Discomfort for Several Months
Overview: I am a 19-year-old female weighing 147 pounds based on my last measurement. My current medications include sertraline at 150mg, mirtazapine at 7.5mg, Blisovi, and hydroxyzine which I take at a dosage of 25mg when necessary. Pain Location: The discomfort is mainly concentrated in my legs, encompassing the entire limb, with some secondary pain in my back. Physical Symptoms: There are no signs of swelling, bruises, or cuts, and there appears to be no discernible injury. Details: This issue has persisted for a number of months, although I cannot pinpoint an exact duration. The sensation is akin to an electric shock coursing through my leg or a constant vibration. When I place weight on my legs, it feels as though they might break. At times, the pain manifests as numbness or extreme tightness. Questions: Could weight loss alleviate this condition? I walk for eight hours daily for my job, a position I just started a few weeks ago. Previous Attempts: I have tried over-the-counter pain relievers and ensured I get adequate rest, but I feel uncertain about my next steps. What might be the underlying cause of this pain? Which specialist should I consult for proper evaluation?
Answers (1)
8/12/2025, 3:11:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant leg discomfort that impacts your daily life, which understandably can be concerning. This discomfort could be linked to various factors, including your activity level, anxiety, or even issues related to medication.
Understanding Your Condition
From your description, it seems you’re experiencing sensations that might include nerve-related symptoms (electric shock-like feelings, numbness) along with tightness. Given that you recently started a job requiring 8 hours of walking, it’s essential to consider both physical strain and any psychological factors, especially since you are taking medications for mental health conditions.
Key Considerations
- Muscle Fatigue and Overuse: Your new job may have led to muscle fatigue or strain, especially if your legs aren't used to that level of activity.
- Nerve Compression or Irritation: The sensations you've described might suggest nerve involvement, which can happen due to posture or repetitive motions.
- Medication Side Effects: Some medications can cause leg discomfort or unusual sensations.
Next Steps
To address your concerns, consider the following prioritized actions:
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Monitor and Document Symptoms: Keep a diary of when the pain occurs, what activities you were doing before it started, and any other symptoms. This may help in identifying triggers and patterns.
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Gradual Activity Modulation: Since your job requires extensive walking, try to incorporate short breaks to rest your legs and do light stretches. Gradually increase your walking duration to allow your body to adapt.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure that you’re well-hydrated and consume a balanced diet to support muscle and nerve health.
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Physical Relaxation Techniques: Engage in activities such as gentle yoga or stretching exercises which can help reduce muscle tightness and improve overall comfort.
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Evaluate Medication Impact: Reflect on your medication usage and any changes since you started your job. If you think this could be affecting your symptoms, consider discussing it with your healthcare provider.
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Consult a Specialist: Given the nature of your symptoms, it may be wise to consult a neurologist or an orthopedist. They can perform evaluations to rule out nerve issues or musculoskeletal disorders.
Conclusion
While weight loss could be beneficial for overall health, it’s not guaranteed to alleviate your leg discomfort. Focus on gently modifying your activity level and monitoring your symptoms. If discomfort persists or worsens, pursue a consultation with a specialist for a thorough assessment.
Take these steps, and remember, you're not alone in dealing with these symptoms. You’re taking positive actions, and there’s support available to help guide your next steps. Let me know if you need further clarification or additional information!
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