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left side numb

I would like to know what you think about my problem.  Recently I had an abcessed tooth for which I was taking antibiotic.  Was feeling nauseated and dizzy so suspended the med.  However, a couple days later, I started going numb on my left arm.  Went to ER and had a Cat Scan of my brain and also an EKG and everything seemed ok.
However, since then my whole left side has went numb.  Of course with  Christmas yesterday, can't get in touch with my Dr.  What could be causing this numbness and tingling?
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Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with your doctor.

Without the ability to examine you and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of your symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

I would strongly suggest that you go to see your doctor or your nearest ED. Although this could be something benign, it is always important to rule out bad things before you decide that it is nothing.

My concern with your symptoms would be a small stroke, resulting in numbness of the Left side of your body. I am especially concerned since you give a history of a tooth infection. Whenever there is a tooth infection that is untreated, there is a risk of the bacteria going in to the blood stream and attaching to the valves inside the heart. The bacteria can then grow there in to a vegetation, and parts of it can break of and go to the brain, resulting in a stroke.

All of this may be far fetched, since I am unable to examine you. But I would strongly suggest that you seek medical help as soon as possible.Sometimes a stroke, if it is very new, may not show up on a CT scan. It may take time to show up or can be seen on an MRI.

I hope this helps. Good Luck!
Helpful - 1
Avatar universal
Thank you so much for your comments.  You were absolutely correct.  He did have a small stroke. The numbness is slowing going away.  Was in the hospital for 5 days but you were right on.  When they did a MRI you could see the damage from the stroke.  This was a wake up call.  Thanks much.
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