OpenHealth Q&A

You've described a series of concerning symptoms including numbness and tingling in your forehead and upper right head, along with a distinctive olfactory sensation. This situation demands careful attention, especially since it has lasted for four years without clear conclusions from medical evaluations. Let's break down your symptoms and outline some next steps to consider.

Key Points:

1. Persistent numbness and tingling, especially with a specific pattern, may indicate nerve involvement.
2. The olfactory symptoms (peculiar smell) are noteworthy and may not be related to a typical upper respiratory or ENT issue.
3. Low-normal vitamin B12 levels may contribute to neurological symptoms, but it's important to investigate further.

Explanation:

• Neurological Symptoms: Numbness and tingling can result from various conditions affecting the nerves, such as vitamin deficiencies, migraines, or even more complex issues like multiple sclerosis (MS). If structural issues (like herniated discs or lesions) have been ruled out, the next steps should focus more on functional and nutritional aspects.
• Olfactory Issues: The burnt rubber smell could suggest a neurological origin, including potential issues with how the brain processes smells. This kind of symptom can occur with migraines or irritations in nerve pathways.

Next Steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms:

   • Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including when they occur, their duration, triggers, and any associated activities. This information can help in identifying patterns and aiding healthcare providers in making a diagnosis.

2. Address Nutritional Aspects:

   • Since you have low-normal vitamin B12 levels, consider increasing your dietary intake of this vitamin. Foods rich in vitamin B12 include:
     • Meat (especially liver)
     • Fish
     • Dairy products
     • Eggs
   • If dietary modifications are not helping, discuss with your healthcare provider about the possibility of vitamin supplementation.

3. Explore Further Evaluations:

   • Consider asking your physician for a referral to a neurologist if you haven’t yet seen one. A neurologist can conduct tests focused on nerve function and may order MRIs to rule out conditions like MS or other neurological disorders.

4. Manage Stress and Seek Support:

   • Chronic symptoms can be stressful. Engaging in stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or counseling can be helpful. They may not treat the symptoms directly but can improve your overall well-being while you seek answers.

5. Follow-Up:

   • Make sure to have regular check-ins with your healthcare provider. If any symptoms magnify, such as increased numbness, worsening olfactory symptoms, or new symptoms (like vision changes or severe headaches), seek help immediately.

It’s understandable to feel frustrated with ongoing symptoms and unclear answers. By taking these steps, you can gather the necessary information and support to move towards a resolution. Please remember that you are not alone in this process, and seeking clarity on your health is a proactive and essential choice. Let me know how you would like to proceed or if you have any questions!