Re: SUDDEN CHANGE IN SYMPTOMS

Posted By CCF NEUROSURGERY MD on August 15, 1997 at 09:09:56:

In Reply to: SUDDEN CHANGE IN SYMPTOMS posted by Wayne Crouse on July 24, 1997 at 01:15:14:







: A mild stroke in January left me with numbness and spasticity on the left side. That condition remained without change until a couple of days ago. All of the muscles on my left side became much more knotted. Instead of discomfort, I now feel severe pain. Additionally, I pulled my left hamstring muscle making what I thought was a routine movement (stepping forward and bending over at the same time.) I can't imagine what is causing my condition to worsen. The only thing I've changed is my medication. I recently stopped taking Buspar. Could this be related to my muscle problems? Should I be concerned about the change in condition? Finally, what kind of treatment might be appropriate?
Thanks,
Wayne Crouse
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Dear Wayne,
You may be experiencing painful muscle spasms simply from stopping your
Buspar.  The spectrum of problems here would range from a new stroke to
simply the muscle spasms described above.  From what you have described,
the latter would be more likely.  
Your best bet would be to contact your primary physician or neurologist
and discuss exactly what kinds of symptoms you are having, namely what kind
of pain and where it is located.  Any new numbness, weakness or speech
difficultly would be suggestive for a new stroke.  
After this discussion with your physician he or she may be better able to
narrow down the possibilities and suggest an office visit if necessary.  It
sounds like you are having painful muscle spasms, possibly related to stopping
the Buspar.  If this is indeed the case your physician may opt to restart
the medication (or another)and may recommend some outpatient physical therapy
to stretch and strengthen your muscles.
Good luck.