[54M] Experiencing prolonged post-viral symptoms with joint pain and neurological concerns

Patient Description

A 54-year-old male has been experiencing a constellation of symptoms for the past two months, reminiscent of a prolonged recovery phase from a viral infection. The patient describes a persistent feeling of lightheadedness, akin to having a fever without the actual fever, which notably worsens after eating. This is accompanied by aching joint pain in the hands, feet, knees, and hips, not related to any previous injuries. Additionally, the patient reports profuse sweating after meals, significant enough to dampen clothing, and an episode of pronounced hand trembling lasting about an hour. Nightly awakenings due to hand numbness and daytime sensations of reduced blood flow in the hands have been troubling. The patient also notes a recent decrease in vision. There is a history of routine excessive alcohol consumption, which ceased several months ago upon the onset of these symptoms. Currently, the patient is on Lisinopril 20mg daily for hypertension and takes a Vitamin D supplement of 5000 IU/day. There are no known allergies to medications, and the patient denies any family history of autoimmune or neurological diseases.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few possible conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

  • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): This condition affects circulation and can cause lightheadedness, sweating, and trembling. It's often associated with conditions that cause joint pain, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. However, POTS usually causes symptoms to worsen upon standing, which you did not report.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and medications to manage symptoms.
  • Autoimmune conditions: Certain autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, can cause joint pain and other symptoms. However, these conditions typically cause other symptoms as well, such as fatigue and weight loss.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
  • Neurological conditions: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis or peripheral neuropathy can cause numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, as well as vision changes. However, these conditions typically cause other symptoms as well, such as muscle weakness and balance problems.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency: This can cause a range of neurological symptoms, including numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, lightheadedness, and vision changes. However, this is typically associated with a diet low in animal products or certain digestive conditions.

    • Treatment typically involves B12 supplementation.
  • Alcohol withdrawal: If you were consuming alcohol in excess and recently stopped, some of your symptoms could be due to alcohol withdrawal. This can cause a range of symptoms, including sweating, trembling, and changes in vision.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and support to maintain abstinence from alcohol.

What you can do

Given the range and duration of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests, and possibly imaging studies or other diagnostic tests. They can also provide appropriate treatment based on the underlying cause of your symptoms.

In the meantime, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, ensuring you get enough sleep, and avoiding alcohol and other substances that can worsen your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe headache
  • Sudden or severe changes in vision
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Weakness or numbness on one side of your body
  • Loss of consciousness

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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8 mo ago


People Also Ask


What could be causing my joint pain and numbness in the hands?

Joint pain and numbness in the hands could be caused by autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, neurological conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, or vitamin deficiencies like Vitamin B12 deficiency. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.


Why do I experience profuse sweating and trembling after meals?

Profuse sweating and trembling after meals could be related to conditions like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) or could be symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. It's advisable to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.


Could my symptoms be related to my past alcohol consumption?

Yes, your symptoms could be related to past alcohol consumption, especially if you recently stopped drinking. Alcohol withdrawal can cause symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and changes in vision. It's important to seek medical advice to manage these symptoms effectively.


What should I do if my vision continues to decrease?

If your vision continues to decrease, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Vision changes can be a sign of neurological conditions or vitamin deficiencies, and a healthcare provider can perform the necessary tests to determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment.

1 Comments


Leo#17

8 mo ago

Sometimes a peripheral vascular disease such as PAD (arterial disease) can cause pain in the limbs because of reduced blood flow. Similarly, the lightheadedness and fatigue can be caused by reduced perfusion of your brain and other important body parts. A doctor can do a detailed physical exam and order a test like an ultrasound if necessary. I also agree that some of your symptoms can be due to alcohol withdrawal, in which case they will get better with time. Are you in any support groups?

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