[43F] Experiencing a Range of Neurological and Physical Symptoms

Question

Been to many doctors and although I have some positive autoimmune results, the doctor I saw said it was fine. Help!

Patient Description

A 43-year-old female has been experiencing a variety of symptoms including fatigue, finger and toenail abnormalities, Raynaud's phenomenon in fingers and toes, numbness in hands, muscle weakness, tremors, and balance issues. She also reports cognitive changes, feeling mentally withdrawn, and speech difficulties, which have led to her being on disability. The numbness, muscle weakness, tremors, and balance issues have been worsening over the past year. Additionally, she experiences constipation and occasional shortness of breath. The patient has been taking Zoloft (50mg daily) and recently discontinued Adderall (30mg twice daily). She has no known pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses not already mentioned.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Autoimmune Disease: Autoimmune diseases occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body's cells. There are many types of autoimmune diseases, and they can affect many different types of body tissue. Given your symptoms of fatigue, Raynaud's phenomenon, numbness in your hands, muscle weakness, and tremors, it's possible that you have an autoimmune disease such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

    • Treatment typically involves managing symptoms and preventing complications, and can include medications to suppress the immune system, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
  • Neurological Conditions: Your symptoms of balance issues, tremors, and difficulty finding words could be related to a neurological condition such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.

    • Treatment can involve medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
  • Mental Health Conditions: Your feelings of withdrawal and changes in your mental state could be related to a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety.

    • Treatment often involves a combination of medication and therapy.

What you can do

It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan. They may want to conduct further tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. In the meantime, here are some general suggestions:

  1. Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. This can help manage symptoms of fatigue and muscle weakness.
  2. Try to keep your hands and feet warm to prevent Raynaud's attacks. This could involve wearing gloves or thick socks, or using hand warmers.
  3. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These can help manage symptoms of anxiety and improve your mental state.
  4. Stay hydrated and include plenty of fiber in your diet to help manage constipation.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Sudden, severe headache
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
  • Sudden vision changes in one or both eyes
  • Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am an AI and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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8 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is Raynaud's phenomenon and how can it be managed?

Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition where small blood vessels in extremities like fingers and toes constrict excessively in response to cold or stress, leading to color changes, numbness, and pain. Management includes keeping warm, avoiding stress, and sometimes medication to improve blood flow.


What are common symptoms of autoimmune diseases?

Common symptoms of autoimmune diseases include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and fever. Specific symptoms depend on the type of autoimmune disease, such as Raynaud's phenomenon in lupus or joint stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis.


How can neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis be diagnosed?

Neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis are diagnosed through a combination of medical history, neurological exams, and imaging tests such as MRI. Sometimes, additional tests like lumbar puncture or blood tests are needed.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of fatigue and muscle weakness?

Lifestyle changes to manage fatigue and muscle weakness include maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients, regular physical activity tailored to your ability, adequate rest, and stress management techniques like yoga or meditation.


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5 Comments


Anonymous#22206

8 mo ago

Hello, I also have similar issues and am taking 30mg of Adderall 2x a day. Was curious how or if you found out what may be the cause I hope you get better cause I can't even drive at this point

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Anonymous#22155

8 mo ago

I'm sorry. Unfortunately it isn't due to taking Adderall. This started while I was taking it. I have many strange things and have not found the best doctors.

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Leo#3962

8 mo ago

Would you mind sharing any lab test abnormalities that you've had? Or any MRIs of your head? This sounds most like an autoimmune process that's damaging your nervous system

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Anonymous#22155

8 mo ago

Sure!

Anti-Centromere Protein B (CENP) IgG Positive. Results: 11.0 Normal Range 7 and under ANA IgG Positive (50.60 are the results) Normal Range is under 20

ANA by HEp-2 (titer) 1:640 (normal range 1:80 and under- pattern is speckled

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Anonymous#23658

7 mo ago

I think you should look into CREST syndrome for at least some of your symptoms, especially given that your anti-centromere protein B is positive.

My initial diagnosis from my first Rheumatoligist was Scleroderma, Tenosynovitis, Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease, and Lupus. I also have Rheumatoid Arthritis/Inflammatory Arthritis as well as fibromyalgia, plantar fasciitis, and small fiber neuropathy. My 2nd and current rheumatologist says I just have inflammatory arthritis, which doesn’t make any sense. He is a pain in the ass to deal with and I honestly want to find a new Rheumatoligist. My blood work has always shown what my initial diagnosis was. I’m currently on Plaquenil and Humira as well as prednisone. I’ve taken several other immunosuppressants previously. The Humira is new. Just started and have 4 shots done. Anyways, since I’m getting discrepancies from my current Rheumatoligist it’s hard to say if he still considers me having CREST.

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