[35F] Experiencing muscle twitching, double vision, and facial pain

Patient Description

A 35-year-old female presents with a four-month history of constant muscle twitching in the calves that subsides with movement, and a one-month history of double vision that resolves when one eye is closed. She also reports intermittent numbness and tingling in her fingertips for six months, with a persistent numb spot on her right thumb. Additionally, she experiences episodes of shooting facial pain on the left side, described as electric shock-like, lasting for five months. The patient also feels a tingling sensation around her mouth that occasionally turns into a burning feeling. She has been feeling very fatigued. Her medical history includes Fibromuscular dysplasia diagnosed one month ago, and stable anxiety and depression managed with Escitalopram, Buspirone, and methylphenidate for 20 years. No known drug allergies. No recent head injuries or trauma reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS): This is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including muscle twitching, numbness or tingling in the fingers, facial pain, double vision, and fatigue. These symptoms can come and go, and they can vary in severity.

    • Diagnosing MS typically involves a neurological exam, MRI scans, and sometimes a spinal tap. Treatment usually involves medications to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
  • Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. It can also cause numbness and tingling in the fingers and muscle twitching.

    • Diagnosis is usually made based on a physical exam and a detailed medical history. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, exercise, stress management techniques, and healthy lifestyle habits.
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia: This condition causes severe facial pain that might feel like an electric shock. It's caused by irritation of the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain.

    • Diagnosis is usually based on the person's description of the pain. Treatment options include medications, nerve blocks, and sometimes surgery.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've described, and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

Here are some general suggestions:

  1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They may refer you to a neurologist for further evaluation.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when each symptom occurs, how long it lasts, and what you were doing when it started. This can help your healthcare provider identify patterns and make a diagnosis.
  3. Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help manage some of your symptoms.
  4. Continue taking your current medications as prescribed, and discuss any side effects with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms
  • You experience severe pain
  • You have difficulty walking or performing daily activities
  • You have changes in vision or difficulty speaking
  • You experience confusion or changes in behavior

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 a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


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

Common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) include muscle weakness, numbness or tingling in the limbs, double vision, fatigue, balance problems, and cognitive changes. Symptoms can vary widely among individuals and may come and go.


How is Trigeminal Neuralgia diagnosed and treated?

Trigeminal Neuralgia is typically diagnosed based on the description of the pain, which is often severe and electric shock-like. Treatment options include medications such as anticonvulsants, nerve blocks, and in some cases, surgical procedures to relieve pressure on the trigeminal nerve.


Can anxiety and depression medications cause muscle twitching or numbness?

While anxiety and depression medications like Escitalopram, Buspirone, and methylphenidate are generally not known to cause muscle twitching or numbness, side effects can vary. It's important to discuss any new or worsening symptoms with a healthcare provider to rule out medication-related causes.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms include regular low-impact exercise, stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring adequate sleep. These strategies can help reduce pain and improve overall well-being.


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