[70M] With chronic neck pain and neurological symptoms

What might be happening

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

• Cervical Spondylosis: This is a general term for age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal disks in your neck. This condition can cause chronic, severe pain and stiffness in the neck, as well as headaches. It can also cause neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and tingling in the arms and hands if the spinal cord or nerve roots become compressed.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, medications to manage pain and inflammation, and in severe cases, surgery.

• Cervical Cord Compression: This condition occurs when the spinal cord becomes compressed, often due to degenerative changes in the spine (like those seen in cervical spondylosis). This could explain your neck pain, weakness, and unsteady gait.

  • Treatment can involve physical therapy, medications, and potentially surgery.

• Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain, often accompanied by other symptoms like visual disturbances (such as double vision) and confusion.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle changes to avoid triggers.

• Autonomic Dysfunction: This is a condition in which the autonomic nervous system, which controls functions like heart rate and blood pressure, doesn't work properly. This could potentially explain your tachycardia.

  • Treatment typically involves managing symptoms and underlying conditions.

• Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition, which involves damage to the peripheral nerves, could explain your pins and needles sensation and weakness. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including autoimmune diseases and certain medications.

  • Treatment typically involves managing the underlying cause and relieving symptoms.

Please remember that this is not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

What you can do

1. Consult with a healthcare provider: They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.

2. Manage your pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers, heat or cold therapy, and gentle exercises or stretching may help relieve your neck pain.

3. Stay active: Regular physical activity can help maintain muscle strength and flexibility, which can be beneficial for conditions like cervical spondylosis and peripheral neuropathy.

4. Monitor your symptoms: Keep a record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, severe pain in your neck, arms, or legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Difficulty breathing
• Sudden onset of severe headache, especially if accompanied by confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.