[37F] Experiencing left side facial and leg burning sensation with additional symptoms

Patient Description

A 37-year-old female has been experiencing a burning sensation on the left side of her face, described as feeling like her cheek is on fire, for the past two days. This sensation occasionally extends to her left leg. She also reports body weakness, balance issues described as swaying while walking, and occasional confusion. The patient has a family history suggestive of high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation, which she monitors at home but has not been formally diagnosed. She is not currently on any medications and has no known allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions may be causing your symptoms:

  • Trigeminal Neuralgia: This is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain. The symptoms include severe, sudden facial pain that feels like a shock or burn.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce nerve pain, and in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

  • Multiple Sclerosis: This is a disease of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). Symptoms can include numbness or weakness in one or more limbs, tingling or pain, and unsteady gait or lack of coordination.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms.

  • Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Given your potential risk factors of high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation, these are serious conditions that could cause symptoms like facial numbness, confusion, and balance problems. A stroke is a medical emergency.

    • Treatment involves immediate medical attention. Medications and therapies will depend on the cause and severity of the stroke.

Please remember that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also be causing your symptoms.

What you can do

Given the severity and sudden onset of your symptoms, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. Please go to the nearest emergency department or call an ambulance. If you are diagnosed with a chronic condition like Trigeminal Neuralgia or Multiple Sclerosis, your doctor will be able to provide a treatment plan to manage your symptoms.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:

  • Sudden severe headache
  • Trouble speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a visit to a healthcare professional.

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6 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by sudden, severe facial pain that feels like an electric shock or burning sensation. The pain typically affects one side of the face and can be triggered by activities such as eating, talking, or touching the face.

How is multiple sclerosis diagnosed and treated?

Multiple sclerosis is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, neurological exams, MRI scans, and sometimes spinal fluid analysis. Treatment focuses on slowing disease progression and managing symptoms, often involving medications like corticosteroids, disease-modifying therapies, and physical therapy.

What are the risk factors and symptoms of a stroke or TIA?

Risk factors for stroke or TIA include high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Symptoms can include sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body, confusion, trouble speaking, vision problems, and loss of balance or coordination.

How can high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation affect my health?

High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems, while atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke and heart failure. Both conditions require monitoring and management to reduce the risk of serious health complications.

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