[28F] Experiencing sharp hand, feet, and back pain with tingling and numbness

Patient Description

A 28-year-old female presents with a 4-day history of sharp pain in the hands, feet, and upper back, rated 8/10 in severity. The pain is described as constant and sharp. Additionally, the patient reports a tingling sensation and numbness in the hands and feet, with the extremities 'falling asleep.' There is also a recent onset of bowel and bladder control loss. The patient has a history of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) diagnosed two years ago. Current medications include two different dosages of Lithium, Sertraline, and Atorvastatin. No known drug allergies. No recent injuries, weight loss, fever, numbness, weakness, or coordination problems have been reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, several conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition results from damage to the peripheral nerves, often causing weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also cause tingling in these areas. Peripheral neuropathy can result from traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes and exposure to toxins.

    • Diagnosis usually involves neurological examinations, nerve function tests, blood tests, and possibly a nerve biopsy.
    • Treatment typically involves managing the condition causing your neuropathy and relieving symptoms with medications and therapy.
  • Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. It amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain and spinal cord process painful and nonpainful signals.

    • Diagnosis is usually made by a healthcare provider based on a comprehensive physical exam and your symptom history.
    • Treatment often involves a team approach, including your doctor, a physical therapist, and possibly other health professionals.
  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS): This is a potentially disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). It can cause pain and tingling in various parts of the body.

    • Diagnosis usually involves a neurological exam, MRI, and other tests.
    • Treatment typically focuses on speeding recovery from attacks, slowing the progression of the disease and managing symptoms.
  • Vitamin B12 Deficiency: This can cause neurological problems, such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.

    • Diagnosis usually involves blood tests.
    • Treatment typically involves vitamin B12 injections or pills.

Please remember that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Consult a healthcare provider: They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.
  2. Keep a symptom diary: This can help you and your healthcare provider understand your symptoms better.
  3. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet: This can help manage your symptoms and overall health.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Sudden, severe pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Sudden, severe headache
  • Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden loss of vision

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of peripheral neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes, and exposure to toxins. It often results in weakness, numbness, and pain in the hands and feet.


How is fibromyalgia diagnosed and treated?

Fibromyalgia is diagnosed based on a comprehensive physical exam and the patient's symptom history. Treatment often involves a team approach, including medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes to manage pain and improve quality of life.


What are the early symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Early symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can include fatigue, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, vision problems, and difficulty with coordination and balance. These symptoms can vary widely among individuals.


How can a Vitamin B12 deficiency affect the body?

A Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological problems such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, as well as fatigue, weakness, and cognitive disturbances. It is typically treated with vitamin B12 injections or supplements.


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