[34F] Experiencing acute tingling and dizziness

Patient Description

A 34-year-old female reported an acute onset of tingling sensations starting at the back of the head and spreading to the extremities, described as pins and needles. The patient also experienced dizziness and a sensation akin to needing to lie down to avoid passing out, as well as a heavy feeling in the throat that made swallowing difficult. These symptoms occurred minutes after the patient fell down the stairs, though she did not hit her head or lose consciousness. The tingling was intense but has been subsiding. The patient has no known drug allergies, is not on any medications, and has no past medical history of chronic illnesses or conditions.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

  • Panic Attack: This is a type of anxiety disorder that can cause symptoms such as tingling, lightheadedness, feeling hot, and a sensation of a lump in the throat. Panic attacks often occur suddenly and can be very intense.

    • Treatment usually involves cognitive behavioral therapy and sometimes medications.
  • Hyperventilation Syndrome: This condition occurs when you breathe too quickly or too deeply. It can cause symptoms such as tingling, lightheadedness, and feeling hot.

    • Treatment involves learning to control your breathing.
  • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Also known as a mini-stroke, a TIA can cause symptoms such as tingling, difficulty swallowing, and dizziness. However, these symptoms usually occur on one side of the body.

    • Treatment involves medications to prevent a future stroke and sometimes surgery.
  • Orthostatic Hypotension: This is a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down. It can cause dizziness and lightheadedness.

    • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes and sometimes medications.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some steps you can take:

  1. If you're feeling lightheaded or dizzy, try to sit or lie down until the feeling passes.
  2. Stay hydrated and eat regular, balanced meals.
  3. Try to avoid sudden changes in position, such as standing up too quickly.
  4. If you're feeling anxious or stressed, try to find ways to relax, such as deep breathing or meditation.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms return or get worse
  • You experience weakness or numbness on one side of your body
  • You have difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • You have a severe headache or loss of vision

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a panic attack?

Common symptoms of a panic attack include sudden feelings of intense fear or discomfort, heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, a feeling of choking, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, and a fear of losing control or dying.


How can hyperventilation syndrome be managed at home?

Hyperventilation syndrome can often be managed at home by practicing slow, controlled breathing techniques, such as breathing into a paper bag or using diaphragmatic breathing. It's also helpful to identify and manage stressors that may trigger hyperventilation.


What is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) and how is it different from a stroke?

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is often called a mini-stroke and is caused by a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. Unlike a stroke, the symptoms of a TIA are temporary and usually resolve within 24 hours without causing permanent damage. However, a TIA is a warning sign of a potential future stroke.


What lifestyle changes can help manage orthostatic hypotension?

Lifestyle changes to manage orthostatic hypotension include staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, eating small frequent meals, rising slowly from sitting or lying positions, wearing compression stockings, and increasing salt intake if advised by a doctor.


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