Seeking Answers for Unexplained Symptoms
At the age of 16, I first experienced an alarming issue: the right side of my arm and the corresponding area of my back went entirely numb. Now, at 24 years old, this unsettling situation has escalated. Over time, I've noticed unsettling numbness extending throughout my entire back, chest, lower left arm, and abdomen. I do suffer from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), but I find it difficult to accept that all of this could merely be attributed to anxiety, as suggested by both my physician and the emergency room staff. I'm at a loss and perplexed by these symptoms; I have lost sensation to the extent that I cannot even detect pain or any physical feeling anymore.
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 12:30:53 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that experiencing persistent and widespread numbness can be deeply concerning and confusing. Your symptoms, which have progressed from localized numbness to a more widespread issue, deserve careful consideration. While anxiety can indeed manifest physically, it’s important to ensure that all possible medical causes are explored.
Explanation
Numbness can arise from various factors, including nerve compression, neurological conditions, vitamin deficiencies, or circulatory issues. Given your history, it could be a combination of factors where anxiety may play a role, but it is essential to rule out other medical causes.
Next Steps
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of when the numbness occurs, its duration, any triggering factors, and other accompanying symptoms (e.g., weakness, pain, changes in coordination). This will be useful information for any healthcare professional.
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Consistent Monitoring: If you notice any rapid changes, such as increased numbness, difficulty walking, or weakness, pay close attention. These changes can be indicators to seek further evaluation.
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Healthy Lifestyle Choices:
- Stay Active: Engage in regular, gentle physical activity. This can help improve circulation and alleviate some symptoms.
- Balanced Diet: Ensure your diet includes foods rich in vitamins B12, D, and other essential nutrients that support nerve health. Consider a consultation with a dietitian if needed.
- Manage Anxiety: While it's important to address physical symptoms, also consider practicing stress-reduction techniques (like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga) to help manage anxiety.
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Seek Follow-Up Care: Given the history and progression of your symptoms, consider requesting a referral to a neurologist. They can conduct further testing (like an MRI, EMG, or nerve conduction studies) to explore potential neurological causes.
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Communicate Openly: When discussing your concerns with healthcare professionals, be sure to express how these symptoms are affecting your daily life and mental well-being so they can better understand the urgency of addressing your situation.
Understanding your symptoms and seeking answers is important, and you should feel empowered to advocate for your health. If you need further assistance or clarification, feel free to reach out.
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