OpenHealth Q&A

Seeking Guidance for Ongoing Neurological Sensations

Hello everyone, I’m a 20-year-old male and I’m reaching out because I’ve been grappling with some perplexing neurological sensory issues for several years now and really could use some advice. My journey began about five or six years ago when I started experiencing strange tingling in my forehead. Initially, these sensations were infrequent, only appearing for a few minutes and then disappearing, never sticking around for more than a few days at a time. Oddly enough, the tingling often occurred after heading a soccer ball during practice and would last for several days, which ultimately led me to develop a fear of heading the ball, prompting me to quit playing soccer entirely. Then, in the spring of 2021, after a minor head bump at home while helping my grandma, I again felt strange, and this time the tingling sensation persisted for several months. I visited doctors multiple times, underwent blood tests and neurological exams, but each time was sent home with no answers as the tests returned normal. For a period, my symptoms faded and seemed to vanish altogether. Fast forward to the summer of 2023, a similar situation unfolded where I bumped my forehead in a specific area, and once again, I felt a shift in my well-being and the tingling returned. This time, however, the tingling did not dissipate. Instead, it spread across my face, developing into neuropathic-like symptoms including buzzing, burning, electrical jolts, and even sensations resembling bugs crawling on my skin. These purely sensory symptoms are in constant flux, moving around my face and scalp, often being quite overwhelming. Despite experiencing temporary relief at times, these neurological sensations seem to be progressively worsening. New sensations have emerged, such as feelings of coldness or a chilling breeze, which exacerbate the discomfort considerably. Lately, the sensations have started affecting other areas of my body, notably my back, which was previously unaffected, and I’ve even noticed that my hands turn an alarming shade of red when exposed to hot water, although it doesn’t cause pain. While these sensations do not occur simultaneously throughout my body and shift around unpredictably, they are profoundly debilitating, often plunging me into deep feelings of despair. At their most intense, the sensations have caused me severe emotional distress and even thoughts of self-harm, which I want to emphasize is not a reflection of any motor function issue — I do not experience paralysis or weakness and can sense touch, heat, and cold normally. I’ve undergone numerous tests, including two MRIs of my brain, and all have yielded normal results. I have consulted with neurologists, psychologists, and more, but no one seems to have pinpointed the root cause of my distressing symptoms. Despite my blood tests being fine and MRIs clear, the response I often receive is that it’s all in my head. Since the onset of these sensations in summer 2023, I’ve had episodes where symptoms seem to diminish, allowing me to experience a semblance of normalcy, but they invariably return without warning. While my life continues to be disrupted by these sensory issues (I've even had to withdraw from university), I know that my happiness is closely tied to the severity of these sensations. On days when the sensations subside, my mood significantly improves. I’m desperate to regain my life back, as the constant barrage of buzzing, tingling, stabbing, and cold sensations is unbearable. Therefore, I’m reaching out for any insights or advice that could shed light on this situation. Could this possibly be Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN), even though I haven’t been tested for it yet? Any help or suggestions would be immensely appreciated.

Answers (1)

2/4/2026, 7:01:07 PM

OpenHealth AI

I understand how distressing and debilitating your neurological sensations must be, especially after enduring these symptoms for several years and feeling a lack of answers from various professionals. Your experiences with tingling, buzzing, and other sensory disturbances can be overwhelming, and it’s important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of what you’re going through.

Summary of Main Points:

1. Repeated Neurological Sensations: You've experienced persistent and evolving neurological symptoms, primarily tingling and other unusual sensations.
2. Consultations and Tests: You've had extensive medical evaluations, including MRIs and blood tests, all returning normal results.
3. Emotional Impact: Your symptoms have significantly affected your life and mental well-being, contributing to feelings of despair.

Explanation:

These sensations can be related to various conditions; however, given the history of head impacts and the nature of your symptoms, it's worth considering potential causes such as Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN) or other neuropathic conditions that might not show on standard neurological tests but can cause sensory disturbances. Other possibilities include post-concussion syndrome or a functional neurological disorder, where symptoms are real and distressing but may not have a clear structural cause.

Actionable Steps:

1. Revisit Your Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment with a neurologist who specializes in neuropathic pain or SFN. Discuss your full symptom history, emphasizing the impact of head bumps and the evolution of your symptoms. Request more specific tests for SFN, such as a skin biopsy or autonomic testing, if not previously done.

2. Symptom Diary: Keep a daily log of your symptoms, noting their intensity, duration, triggers, and any accompanying factors (like emotional stressors). This will help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns or potential triggers.

3. Mental Health Support: Given the emotional distress you're experiencing, consider seeking support from a mental health professional who specializes in chronic illness or chronic pain management. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques can be beneficial in coping with persistent symptoms.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments:

   • Stress Management: Incorporate relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, into your routine to help manage stress and anxiety related to your symptoms.
   • Regular Physical Activity: Engage in gentle physical activities that you enjoy, which can improve your overall mood and may help reduce symptom severity.
   • Dietary Considerations: Ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for nerve health.

5. Educate Yourself: Learn more about conditions like SFN or other related neuropathies. Understanding your symptoms and potential treatments can empower you and provide you with a clearer path forward.

Moving Forward:

Your concerns are valid, and it's essential to continue seeking answers and support. Make sure to stay proactive about your health and advocate for yourself in medical situations. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there are pathways to improve both your symptoms and overall quality of life.