[65M] Experiencing transient neurological and sensory symptoms

Patient Description

A 65-year-old male reports experiencing transient neurological and sensory symptoms, including numbness in the mouth with a strong metallic taste, tingling sensations in the arm and chest, and episodes of dizziness described as a feeling of eyes being crossed without actual crossing. These episodes last about 30 seconds and have been occurring almost every 30 minutes to 1 hour since morning. Speech is slightly affected during the onset of these events. The patient also notes some recent memory issues, specifically with recalling details surrounding these episodes. The patient has a significant medical history of aortic stenosis, with the aorta replaced in 1995 and part of the ascending aorta replaced in 2020, high blood pressure diagnosed around 2000, and gout diagnosed prior to that. Medications include daily Warfarin (6mg) and Allopurinol (300mg) taken at 7 pm. No known allergies to medications. The patient had a brain scan recently with no signs of issues and has not been treated for a past suspected stroke.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Sometimes called a "mini-stroke," a TIA is a temporary period of symptoms similar to those you'd have in a stroke. TIAs are often caused by a clot or blockage in the brain, and they don't cause permanent damage. They do, however, warn of the potential of a full stroke in the near future.

    • Treatment typically involves medications or surgery to reduce the risk of stroke. Medications include antiplatelet drugs or anticoagulants to prevent blood clots, and surgery may be used to clear an artery.
  • Seizure Disorders: Conditions that cause seizures can also cause symptoms like numbness and tingling, a metallic taste in the mouth, and memory problems. These symptoms can occur before a seizure (aura) or during a seizure.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to control seizures. In some cases, surgery or other therapies may be necessary.
  • Migraine: Migraines can cause a variety of symptoms, including numbness or tingling, dizziness, and memory problems. Some people also experience auras, which can include visual disturbances or other neurological symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future migraines. Lifestyle changes can also help.

What you can do

It's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. These symptoms can be a sign of a serious condition, such as a stroke, which requires immediate treatment. In the meantime:

  1. Try to stay calm. Stress can make symptoms worse.
  2. If you're alone, let someone know what's happening so they can check on you.
  3. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you've been evaluated by a healthcare professional.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Sudden severe headache
  • Trouble speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden vision changes
  • Sudden severe dizziness or loss of balance
  • Sudden severe chest pain or shortness of breath

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) and how is it different from a stroke?

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is often referred to as a 'mini-stroke' and involves temporary symptoms similar to a stroke, such as numbness or dizziness, due to a temporary blockage in the brain. Unlike a stroke, a TIA does not cause permanent damage, but it is a warning sign of a potential future stroke.


Can seizure disorders cause symptoms like numbness and a metallic taste in the mouth?

Yes, seizure disorders can cause a variety of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and a metallic taste in the mouth. These symptoms can occur as part of an aura, which is a warning sign before a seizure, or during the seizure itself.


How can migraines lead to neurological symptoms such as dizziness and memory problems?

Migraines can cause neurological symptoms due to changes in brain activity and blood flow. These symptoms can include dizziness, numbness, tingling, and memory problems. Some people experience auras, which are sensory disturbances that occur before or during a migraine.


What are the potential risks of untreated high blood pressure in relation to neurological symptoms?

Untreated high blood pressure can lead to serious health issues, including an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular problems. It can also contribute to the development of neurological symptoms by affecting blood flow to the brain, potentially leading to conditions like TIAs or strokes.


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