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Confusion, memory loss, fatigue and tingling in arms.

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I have been having multiple issues for several months.
I have been battling fatigue for years but it got significantly worse around 9-2014.
In 11-2014 I began having tingling both arms and also episodes of confusion/ memory loss
In 12-2014 The tingling became constant and I began having cramps in my hands especially when trying to hold objects.
In 1-2015 The tingling spread to my face, tongue, and back of my head. I also began having pain in both shoulders and elbows. I also began having these episodes of extreme disorientation, I don't know how else to describe it other than it feels like something snaps in my head then I feel like i am about to black out, it last a few seconds and then goes away.
In 2-2015 My neck started feeling very stiff, I started having crushing fatigue where I just could not stand up. If I sit or stand for more than 30 mins my neck, back of head and shoulders feel like they are on fire. I also have Nickel sized lumps that come and go on the back of my neck (just below my hair line on the left side) and another on the front of my right shoulder. They seem to swell up on my worst days. All of this on top of the previous symptoms.

I saw my doctor in early Jan. He ran some test and everything came back normal except for High WBC, Slightly low Vit. D, and Positive ANA. He put in referrals to a Rheumatologist and Neurologist. These appts are months away.

Last week I felt so bad that I went to the emergency room. The doctor there basically just told me that I was going to have to wait until I got to the Neurologist. (Although, I did go there by my self and I am pretty sure I did not describe my symptoms very well and left a lot out)
I did break down the next day and take a steroid that was in my medicine cabinet to help with the inflammation in my neck. I did seem to help alot with my neck and the tingling, however its already coming back.

I don't know what else to do. I don't feel like I am going to make it several months to these specialists and I am really not sure which one I should be badgering to get me in quicker. Should I be trying something else? Is it ok to take steroids even though I don't know what is going on?

Category: Neurologist, Medical

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Category: Pediatric Neurologist
 27 Doctors Online

Hi,
Thank you for your query at DoctorSpring.com
I understand your concern
I have noted your symptoms. I agree that you need to see a rheumatologist as well as neurologist to confirm the diagnosis and start the appropriate treatment.
Possibilities include:
1. Collagen vascular disease or vasculitis- In this condition, antibodies are found in the blood, and can affect multiple body systems including nervous system. Positive ANA points to a collagen vascular disease. Further tests may include anti-dsDNA, ANCA, C reactive protein, rheumatoid factor, etc.
2.Vasculitis refers to inflammation of blood vessels and can cause similar symptoms.
These illnesses respond to steroids. However, they should be taken only after confirmation of the diagnosis.
3. Multiple sclerosis- it is a condition that affects brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. MRI of brain and spine would help confirm the diagnosis.
This can also be treated with high dose steroids in the initial period. But it should be started only after confirming the diagnosis.
I hope it helps.
Feel free to discuss further
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist


Dr. Sudhir Kumar
Category: Pediatric Neurologist
Experience: 
Senior Residency, Fellowship: DM, Neurology, CMC, Vellore, 2001
Junior Residency: MD, Internal Medicine, CMC, Vellore, 1998
Medical School: MBBS, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 1995
Dr. Sudhir Kumar and 4 other Medical Specialists are ready to help you

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