Stress and 'Chemical Imbalance'

[Frodo10]

I have been in a usual state of good health until October 2002, when I experienced tingling over my entire body that lasted for three weeks (with no concurrent pain, weakness, or loss of sensation).  In December 2003, I experienced the onset of a rocking boat sensation that lasted for about four weeks.  The feeling was constant and accompanied by imbalance; where I felt as if I was being pushed and unable to walk straight.  I also experienced a feeling of sluggishness and "internal vibrations" (a sense of internal tremor that lasted for two weeks).  On occasion, I would feel pins and needles in my left foot and then in my arms (focusing on the medial two fingers) when I would wake up.  

Concerned with MS, I was evaluated at the UCLA Department of Neurology.  After an exam and MRI (with flare, contrast, etc.) of the brain and cervical spine, my neurologist said she did not see any indication of MS.  She related my symptoms to (1) stress and (2) chemical imbalance of the brain (b/c no focal syptoms (symptoms)).

Later, I experienced persistent (more than 20 times per day) muscle twitching under my right breast for about a week, twitching in my left thumb when it was flexed (one day), and lower right eyelid twitching (one week).  I still occasionally experience sensations of imbalance, but I generally feel back to normal.  

I have three questions: (1) do these symptoms relate to stress, (2) what exactly is "chemical imbalance" and can it be treated, and (3) would it be reasonable to seek a second opinion?

Thank you in advance for your insight.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS]

Stress can cause many different symptoms in the body. In the nervous system it can cause headache, snesory changes, muscle twitching, and even pseudoseizures (to name a few). I am not sure what your doctor meant by a chemical imbalance, but she was most likely hypothesizing that some of the normal brain balance was altered. What I mean by this is that we have many brian transmitters which are present in various regions of the brain and to varying degrees. As we learn more about these transmitters, we know they are related to certain diseases. For example, depression in some patients is related to an imbalanace of serotonin or levels.

If you are concerned about the persistent symptoms you could discuss this again with the original neurologist, or obtain a second opinion. I think it is perfectly reasonable to obtain a second opinion when a patient has persistent /new symptoms or concerns about the original diagnosis. Good luck.

[Frodo10]

I am a 27-year-old white male.

[kjam]

Good day! Just to let you know you're not alone! I have the exact same symptoms as you mentioned in your post... About a year ago I experienced pins and needles over my entire body. This lasted a week or two, but since then I've been left with odd sensations on the left side of my face, my left arm and my left leg. These sensations come and go on a regular basis. An MRI and blood work were all normal, and my second opinion neurologist said I'm "a mystery". I definitely have worry and anxiety issues, so perhaps that's the problem. I'm 26 and active and despite the nerve issues very healthy. Having no answers is pretty hard to handle. So good luck. If you ever find an answer let me know! ***@****

[mick1]

Had a dizzy 5 years ago, over the next 3 years had mri(clear), other funny eye tests that showed no malfunction and caloric test(23% weakness in right ear). had knee surgery 6 mths ago and on feb 20th had vertigo. now have similar symptoms as you, persistant feeling of motion as if somebody is pulling me back and forth. have had mri again which is clear and caloric test which still shows a 20% weakness in my right ear. i have been told this means that my lateral canal that controls horizontal movement is not working properly and now my brain is not compensating for the wrong signals being sent where as before the brain was. possibly you should go and see a ear, nose and throat specialist. am told that with vestibular rehab the brain should compensate again. good luck

[j0fitz]

A related discussion, seizures was started.

[tensee]

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[milly887]

A related discussion, anxitiy was started.