Multiple symptoms with crazy side affect

by D.John Schmitt
(Altoona, PA.)

47 yrs of age. Never smoked, never overweight, former college Division I athlete, high stress job. Over a period of the last year or so, have experienced bouts of numbness and tingling in upper and lower legs. Symptoms have worsened over the past 3-4 months with above symptoms coupled with intense shooting pain throughout legs and feet. Within last few weeks, left arm and shoulder have been having same problems. The craziest thing is that when I exercise vigorously, get heart rate elevated, the pain, tingling and numbness lessen dramatically? Any help would be greatly appreciated as to any possible diseases etc. that might have any ideas on. NOTE: Have had three blood relatives (half siblings on fathers side), die relatively young (47,46&30 yrs of age from brain tumors.)Any help greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Paraesthesia

Paraesthesia is the feeling of altered sensation and this is what you are describing. There are many causes for this including nutrient deficiencies such as Vitamin B12 deficiency, Folate deficiency, Zinc deficiency and others. Endocrine or hormone related disorders such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland) and diabetes. Multisystem conditions e.g. amyloidosis, connective tissue disorders, rheumatological conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and conditions where the spinal nerves are being compressed such as spinal stenosis, ankylosing spondylitis and tumours although rare. Nerve related conditions such as multiple sclerosis and others can also present in this way. Certain drugs can cause paraesthesia, but you don't mention taking any so I assume this isn't relevant.

The fact that your symptoms are improved with exercise is curious and I havent got a definite explanation for this. I think the important thing is to be examined by your doctor and have some further tests done, not only to find the underlying cause, but also to reassure too! Hope this helps and good luck.