[46F] With chronic tremors and neurological symptoms

Patient Description

A 46-year-old female has a lifelong history of tremors throughout her body, including internal and vocal tremors, which have been worsening over time. These tremors are constant, with exacerbations during periods of stress. Medication provides some relief. The patient also experiences low blood pressure, increased weakness, lightheadedness, and difficulty focusing vision. Lightheadedness is usually mild but has led to two falls. The patient reports a sensation of internal shaking, akin to a bowl of jello being shaken. There is no history of neurological tests or imaging studies. Family history includes similar symptoms in the patient's father and a condition in her son. The patient's medical history includes fibromyalgia diagnosed in 2004, low blood pressure diagnosed in 2022, depression, and otosclerosis. Current medications include Prozac, famotidine, topiramate, omeprazole, a multivitamin, montelukast, levothyroxine, Claritin, Tylenol, vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium, and albuterol as needed, although albuterol exacerbates the tremors. No known allergies and no history of exposure to environmental toxins or heavy metals.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, it seems like your symptoms could be related to a few different conditions:

  1. Essential Tremor or Familial Tremor: Given your family history and the nature of your tremors, it's possible that you have a condition like essential tremor, which is often hereditary. This condition can cause shaking in various parts of the body and may worsen with stress or certain medications.

  2. Fibromyalgia: Your history of fibromyalgia could be contributing to your overall symptoms, including the tremors and lightheadedness. Fibromyalgia is known for causing widespread pain, fatigue, and sometimes neurological symptoms.

  3. Low Blood Pressure: Your lightheadedness, especially when standing, could be related to your history of low blood pressure. This can cause dizziness and even falls if your blood pressure drops too low.

  4. Medication Side Effects: Some of the medications you're taking, such as Prozac or topiramate, can have side effects that include tremors or dizziness. It's important to discuss these with your doctor to see if they could be contributing to your symptoms.

What you can do

Tremors and Neurological Symptoms:

  • Consider seeing a neurologist for a comprehensive evaluation. They may recommend tests such as an MRI or blood work to rule out other conditions.
  • Keep a journal of your symptoms using MDandMe, noting any patterns or triggers, such as stress or medication changes. This can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

Lightheadedness and Low Blood Pressure:

  • Stay hydrated and consider increasing your salt intake slightly, but consult your doctor first, especially given your history of gastric bypass.
  • Stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions to help prevent dizziness.
  • Discuss with your doctor whether any of your medications could be adjusted to help with your blood pressure.

General Health:

  • Continue managing your fibromyalgia with any prescribed treatments and lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise and stress management techniques.
  • Ensure you're following any dietary recommendations post-gastric bypass to maintain your nutritional health.

What you should look out for

  • If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as severe dizziness, fainting, or significant changes in your tremors, seek medical attention promptly.
  • Be cautious of any side effects from your medications, and report any concerns to your healthcare provider.
  • Keep an eye on your mental health, as depression can sometimes worsen physical symptoms, and ensure you're receiving appropriate support and treatment.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

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1 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is essential tremor and how is it different from other types of tremors?

Essential tremor is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking, often in the hands, but it can also affect the head, voice, and other parts of the body. It is different from other tremors, such as those caused by Parkinson's disease, in that it typically occurs during movement rather than at rest and is often hereditary.


Can fibromyalgia cause tremors and other neurological symptoms?

Fibromyalgia is primarily known for causing widespread pain and fatigue, but it can also lead to neurological symptoms such as tremors, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties. These symptoms are thought to be related to the way the brain processes pain and other sensory information in fibromyalgia patients.


How can low blood pressure contribute to symptoms like lightheadedness and falls?

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can lead to insufficient blood flow to the brain, causing symptoms like lightheadedness, dizziness, and even fainting. This can increase the risk of falls, especially when standing up quickly or after prolonged periods of sitting or lying down.


What are the potential side effects of medications like Prozac and topiramate that could affect tremors?

Prozac (an antidepressant) and topiramate (an anticonvulsant) can have side effects that include tremors, dizziness, and other neurological symptoms. These side effects can vary from person to person, and it's important to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider to determine if medication adjustments are needed.


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