[41M] Experiencing reduced sense of smell and numbness

Patient Description

A 41-year-old male reports a significantly reduced sense of smell, only able to detect strong odors, and numbness affecting the nose, lips, fingers, feet, and pelvis. These symptoms have been present for approximately 2 years. Additionally, the patient experiences muscle weakness in the hands, arms, and legs, as well as intermittent blurry and filmy vision. The patient also reports moderate loss of high-frequency hearing, cold hands and feet, muscle cramps, fatigue, restless leg syndrome (RLS), and inflammation, particularly in the neck. The patient has a history of abdominal migraines, RLS, dizziness, and nausea diagnosed 15 years ago. No current medications are being taken, and there is no known history of drug allergies or adverse reactions to medications. The patient has not been exposed to recreational drugs or environmental toxins and has no family history of neurological or autoimmune diseases. The patient's sense of smell temporarily returns to normal following Ketamine treatments, lasting for 1-3 weeks post-treatment.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition is characterized by damage to the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord, often causing weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body. The numbness in your face, hands, feet, and pelvis, as well as the cold hands and feet, could be symptoms of this condition.
- Treatment typically involves managing the condition causing your neuropathy, relieving symptoms, and helping you manage day-to-day activities.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS is a potentially disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). It can cause a variety of symptoms, including vision problems, impaired coordination, and muscle weakness. The intermittent blurry vision and muscle weakness in your hands, arms, and legs could be symptoms of this condition.
- Treatment for MS is aimed at speeding recovery from attacks, slowing the progression of the disease, and managing symptoms.
Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain crucial hormones. Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages, but over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility, and heart disease. The fatigue, cold hands and feet, and muscle cramps could be symptoms of this condition.
- Treatment typically involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms 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 to manage your symptoms:

Keep a symptom diary: This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and triggers for your symptoms.
Stay active: Regular physical activity can help reduce symptoms of fatigue and muscle weakness.
Eat a balanced diet: This can help ensure you're getting the nutrients you need for overall health and well-being.
Stay hydrated: This can help prevent muscle cramps.
Get plenty of rest: This can help manage symptoms of fatigue.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Sudden or severe changes in your symptoms
New symptoms
Difficulty breathing
Severe pain

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. This information is intended to be educational and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.

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1 yr ago

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