Loss control of lower limbs after sneezing

[Serenity2009]

My husband had a couple occasions occur where he sneezed and lost control of his legs. He basically sneezed and then he collapsed to the floor. He was still conscious but he says that his legs went numb and that's why he fell back onto his butt..hard!!!! Today I heard him sneeze and when I came around the corner he was bent over and was walking like he was 105 years old with a cane. Not trying to be funny but he was struggling to walk for a couple of seconds after the sneeze. He was holding on to his legs with each step and said that there was pain. After a few minutes it passed. Just to give one background on my husband, he's 40 years old, 5'11" about 240 pounds(I think). He's been pretty athletic for most of his life, working out and training for a marathon as recent as a few years ago. He kinda become a little more lax when it comes to working out and running over the last year or two. Not sure if this info is pertinent but I thought it might shed some light on him health wise. What is causing this to occur? Is this common or should we be concerned?


Worried Wife

[Serenity2009]

Thanks..We will definitely make an appointment with the doctor.

Thanks again!

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
I can understand your concerns. Loss of balance after sneezing could be due to labrynthitis (inflammation of balance organs in ear) or due to inner ear afflictions or due compression of spinal nerves in lumbo-sacral region. It can also be a vasovagal reflex. Please consult your doctor regarding this. Your husband would need some detailed testing. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.