Concern About Unusual Sounds in My Neck
At 32 years old, I am grappling with several health concerns stemming from a mild traumatic brain injury (mtbi) I sustained in 2009. Though I have been diagnosed with nerve damage, I continue to experience a range of troubling symptoms, including frequent migraines, sensitivity to light, persistent headaches, a diminished sense of smell, and bouts of unsteadiness when walking. I particularly experience dizziness upon standing, accompanied by a rapid heartbeat. Furthermore, upon lying down or stretching, I sometimes perceive a strange liquid-like sound at the base of my skull, reminiscent of a syringe being emptied, rather than a rhythmic pulsing. Additionally, I deal with ongoing discomfort in my neck and shoulders. I’m attempting to avoid self-diagnosing via the internet, but these symptoms are becoming increasingly concerning. Recently, I consulted with my primary care physician, who performed a brief neurological examination and reported no alarming signs. I find it challenging to articulate my physical sensations and overall body awareness, making it difficult to seek clarity regarding my condition. I'd greatly appreciate any insights or suggestions regarding the noise I’m hearing and whether it might relate to my existing symptoms. Thank you in advance for your assistance!
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 10:10:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your concerns; navigating symptoms after a mild traumatic brain injury can be quite challenging. I understand that you're particularly worried about the unusual sounds in your neck alongside other symptoms you've been experiencing.
Main Points:
You are noticing a strange sound at the base of your skull, along with dizziness, migraines, and muscle discomfort. While it can be difficult to connect all these symptoms, it’s vital to approach them systematically.
Explanation:
The sound you're describing could stem from various sources, such as:
- Cervical Spinal Issues: Sometimes, the joints or muscles in the neck can produce sounds, known as crepitus, especially if there's any tightness or tension.
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: This can cause sounds in the ear area, especially when changing positions or lying down.
- Nerve-related Symptoms: Given your history of nerve damage, these noises might relate to changes in your neuromuscular function.
Your other symptoms, such as dizziness when standing and a rapid heartbeat, might point to issues like orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing), which could be related to nerve function as well.
Next Steps:
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Track when you hear the noises, your other symptoms, and any triggers. This information can help you articulate your experience better when discussing it with your doctor.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you're well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet. This can sometimes help with dizziness and overall bodily functions.
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Manage Stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation. Stress can exacerbate muscle tension, which might contribute to the discomfort in your neck and shoulders.
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Gentle Stretching: Consider gentle neck and shoulder stretches to relieve tension, but avoid any movements that increase pain. Physical therapy could be a beneficial option if you haven’t tried that yet.
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to patterns, especially regarding when the dizziness and sounds occur. If these symptoms worsen or you develop new ones, prioritize discussing this in detail with your healthcare provider.
Please remember, while it’s good to be vigilant about your health, many symptoms can be managed effectively with appropriate lifestyle changes and support. If anything feels especially alarming or if your symptoms significantly change, it’s important to reach out for further medical evaluation.
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