Yeah. I don’t know what to say about it.
I literally went from the person who would hop a flight to anywhere to a person who can’t shop for groceries. I can’t even seem to do Instacart or whatever it is. I need to go get a mani/pedi not because I am the kind of person who gives a shit about those things, back when I was a real person. But because I need stimulation to my numb legs.
I HATE to ask for advice because it annoys the shit out of me but I don’t have a doctor and have no idea what to think about this. I never expected to not be able to feel my legs. My response is I will just sit down and die. Is that who I am now? I’ve saved all my life to go anywhere and do anything I want to. And I am going to just sit here and die alone in the shack? I waited to die after Banjo did? WTF is wrong with me?
I literally can’t feel my body from the torso down. I haven’t had a doctor in years. So I do not know who to see about this. I’ve actually been to TWO DOCTORS who didn’t seem to really care. What I am learning is that you can only have one symptom or the fucking doctors get all confused. Wherever I go next I will have one symptom. Like, oh hey, I CAN’T FEEL MY LEGS. Is that normal or am I being whiney? Or perhaps you could help? If you know that is not too much trouble.
Sorry. You guys are my chosen family. I know I am asking for advice. But please don’t scare me in comments. Good vibes only please.
I believe you need to see an actual back specialist who can test you for spinal issues, disc problems, sciatica, etc. The sooner you can get there the better. Think of it that the doctor can help you walk again. Much love and big prayers to you 💟
I mean who is a back specialist. What are they called? How do I Google that? I dunno.
Neurologist, look at the Mayo Clinic in Jax or MUSC in Charleston. Also consider an endocrinologist. The neurologist can work on the back. If a neurologist ever does surgery the incision is small. The endo is fabo with the hormones. Both will give life back. Dr. Kwan used to be at MUSC; he’s an endo god!
Thinking of you Love.
I second a neurologist first. Endocrinologist second. Spinal issues and nerve damage would be dealt with by a neuro. The nerve stuff could be a symptom of a metabolic issue, then you see an endo.
That sounds scary. Sorry you have to deal with this!
Does she need a referral or can she simply call a neurologist/endocrinologist?
Your recommendations are solid. Hormones are so so so important. I really like Biote but most endocrinologists would prefer prescription hormones.
It depends on the insurance, some don’t require referrals
This was my first thought too, Babs RS & TT — that it could have to do with the back & spine, especially where you sit all day with the laptop. Did it by any chance start with pain going down through your butt and the back of your legs, and then later become numb? I’ve had a lot of disc trouble, and that was how mine went. A neurosurgeon was the right doctor for my case. My situation was herniated discs. I chose surgery and it fixed the problem instantly. However, I had one time where PT fixed it. Where you aren’t having luck with primary care doctors, I wonder what would happen if you went to the ER and said I can’t feel my legs? That certainly feels like a valid reason to go the ER and might get you more rapid testing such as an MRI. However, I also know that your last experience wasn’t good there.
I’ve been away from my keyboard and not able to comment, but I was heart-broken reading your story of falling in the dark and having the UTI at the same time. I just wanted to reach out and give you the biggest hug. I commend you that in the middle of all that you had going on, you managed to “bring it” to this blog…. like a real housewife. All the drama of your situation and then the fights with the commenters. And keeping this forum going the whole time. This is why we love & appreciate you!!
I hope you get a good diagnosis soon!
I am worried
Perhaps a neurologist is a possibility? I wish I lived closer so I could help you find one. Surely the readers know one in your area?
I am worried too.
A neurologist can run a variety of tests to determine what is happening here. A neurosurgeon is a back specialist but typically harder to get into. You are near a large teaching medical center ?
Just sending you big hugs TT, a neurologist yes even start with a physical therapist…wish we lived closer to help you out. Please let us all know how you are making out.
You need a neurologist and a neurosurgeon. Please go to ER. Praying you make a full recovery.
I don’t want to go to the ER. That is a shit ton of money. Can’t I just go to a doctor?
Also, I am sorry for bothering everyone with my problems but um NOT BEING ABLE TO FEEL YOUR LEGS is kind of a big deal.
Its a whole lot of money, but you can worry about that later and if you don’t have insurance, there is charity care and emergency medicaid that the hospital social worker can apply for. Your life is more precious than money. Unfortunately in the US we all have to consider money when taking care of ourselves.
You need an extensive work up, scans etc a doctors visit won’t cut it.
I’m not going to the ER.
I recently had spine surgery. Different set of issues, but I was referred to my spine specialist /who is also neuro, thru a good urgent care. I was going in repeatedly for pain in arms, numbness. turns out i had ruptured discs in my neck.
All urgent cares are not equal, but good ones can give referrals the way a primary care provider does.
If ER is a no-go, this would be significantly less expensive, and you may get a good referral (versus you trying to find the right type of doctor online). They can do some imaging, steroid injections, etc….
I hope you find answers you deserve soon. It does sound neuro/spine nerve damage to me.
Lindsay
I would avoid the ER at all costs. It would be at least 1 k out of pocket and maybe 6 times that much with tests. All they will do is refer you anyways.
Urgent care has been a good option for us. Maybe they could refer you to a primary care physician that could coordinate things. You need that.
Since you haven’t been to a doctor in a while, I was thinking you could be an undiagnosed diabetic with neuropathy. That would explain a whole host of symptoms you have described over the years.
I’m in a similar boat. Moved and haven’t been to a doctor in almost 2 years. I’m worried about what they’ll find, but best to just do it.
Tamara can you walk? Is it numbness or tingly? its most likely circulatory or neurological. Do you have an urgent care near you? Can you drive? Having numbness has several causes, MS, vascular disease, neuropathy from diabetes….just giving my input working in healthcare for many years. Do you have diabetes? high blood pressure? On any medications? You in pain? Will want to ask if you can walk, go to bathroom, get around…. I want to assume you have some numbness but have some feeling otherwise I would be calling 911 if its that extreme….
I can walk. My legs are numb.I can drive. I have never been diagnosed with diabetes I take not meds. The only pain I have is residual from the big fall. I can get to the bathroom. I even got the trash out today. But, I a can’t feel my feet underneath me and am TERRIFIED about falling again. I has happened TWICE since the big fall and once I was on the phone with someone.
Have you tried a podiatrist yet? If your problem includes foot numbness, they might have some answers or at least be able to provide more guidance if your numbness goes beyond just loss of foot sensation.
I would go to urgent care and have a work up done, it could very well be diabetes, you wouldn’t know you had that until you had some sort of symptom. A urine and blood test can tell if it is that, or an infection, etc. If it isn’t that they can refer you to another dr for your next step. I would not mess around with that, it could be a pinched nerve or spasm. Just go, go now.
Urgent care is a good start. Less than the ER and they can refer you. Take care!
My husband fell and has numbness on his left side. He was tested for stroke, heart issues and through scans, shows degeneration in his spine in both the cervical and lumbar areas. They are now pinching nerves which has made his leg and arm “numb”. He had a special fall that resulted in both areas being affected. I bet your initial fall has done something similar. He has also lost balance several times because of the weakness.
I’ll tell you what his best friend, the ER doc said. Give it a month and if it continues, see neurologist. Nerve issues are their speciality, not just our head. I wish you success in figuring this out! Good vibes/good vibes/such good vibes.
Tamers, it might be diabetes. Or a nerve issue. You may want to start with a neurologist and also look into going to an endocrinologist
Whether you go to the ER or find a caring doctor, please go soon. If the issue is pressure on your nerves, you don’t want it to stay numb… you want to get the answers and see what they can do to relieve that pressure to give your nerves a fighting chance to bounce back. Too much numbness for too long is not good and can lead to nerve damage. I’m not trying to scare you, I just want you to be as healthy as possible and I think you are still in the range to be able to solve it.
As a physician, I will please recommend that you call 911 and head to the ER. I apologize that you have had bad experiences with doctors, there are a spectrum of people in every profession. Not been able to feel your legs could be anything, your brain, your spine, your muscles, electrolyes, UTI or psychogenic but its better to be safe rather than sorry and to please take care of your self dear. I pray you feel better soon.
Thanks. No ER for me during Covid.
Please go to an Urgent Care center, sometimes called Immediate Care center, not the ER. They can do diagnostic tests at Urgent Care. If they do not have the necessary tests on site, they may tell you to go to the ER but please start with an Urgent Care center. There was a wait when I wanted to see a Neurologist, it can be hard to get a fast/timely appointment and you would most likely need a referal from a primary care doc to see one.
I went to the ER. I told them I was having trouble walking. At that point I didn’t know my legs were numb. I got a script for a UTI and for the SECOND FUCKING TIME no one care that at that time I was “having trouble walking.” I didn’t realize that my legs were numb. But I have told two fucking doctors that I am struggling to walk an they just blew me off. It seems you can only have one symptom.
If you haven’t had a head injury and the numbness is not accompanied by dizziness or confusion, it could be a pinched nerve or slipped disc. Go to urgent care, tell them it began after falling and came on suddenly and affects both legs. Please go soon! Don’t put it off!
I went to an Urgent care I sat on a hard chair for five hours and left with a script for my UTI . That was $250.
Can you bring an advocate? I advise my female friends who go alone to important medical appointments (knee consultation/surgery, hip surgery, just for example) to bring advocates – someone who pushes for the next question, the next answer, clarifies, and takes notes. It is a well-known issue that doctors brush of female patients because they think it’s “mental” whether they recognize their bias or not and when you are in pain, you are less likely to fully advocate for yourself because you’re in pain/distracted/etc/etc. I trust you can source your medical care, so that’s my only input – if you can, bring an advocate to hold them to task.
I am so sorry about that experience. Unfortunately we have to advocate for your care in the ER, in life in general. If its a nerve issue, the earlier it is dealt with the better to avoid permanent nerve damage. I am worried.
Use a tight fitting mask, hopefully you will have your own room. If this got worse after your last fall, if could be a nerve and you might need surgery. You don’t seem to have time for an outpatient work up.
Sending hugs
It started after the fall? Maybe before? Maybe that is why? I dunno.
I’m really scared. Otherwise I would not be bothering you guys. This is really scary.
We’re scared for you. Covid really messed our lives up in so many ways. No amount of worrying will change the outcome, so please get help soon!
Walking helps but wish too that doctors would get that if you have two conflicting symptoms there might be more than one problem. I have avoided the doctors for 8 years after bad news. Living on the edge. The doctors told my grandpa back in the 80’s that he had bladder cancer and if he didnt get removed he would die or at the very least never be able to pee right again. He said fuck it and never went back to the doctors and died peacefully at home into his late 80’s, this was in his fifties after his triple bypass from smoking two packs a day. He did quit smoking though. Told me he still craved one everyday. He was in pearl harbor in ww2 and I can still recite his navy song! Don’t know why I just told you all that. But hope it’s nothing too serious! Take care!
So very worried for you. Please take the advice to go to either urgent care or the ER. I know you don’t want to and you’re scared of Covid but it’s better than falling repeatedly. Neurological problems don’t fix themselves, sadly. You have a lot of people here who genuinely care. Please take care of yourself. ❤️
Go to a walk in, that is a good place to start. If you have something to take to calm you down before you get there, take it (valium, klonopin), dont drive yourself. No one hate on me, I know who I am talking to! It will take the edge off so you are not shaking scared. You do not need a referral to go to a walk in. They can help you figure out what to do next. They can do an x ray or refer you for one at first, or get you to a specialist. I went in once thinking for sure I had a blood clot in my leg, and they got me right upstairs for an ultrasound. (no blood clot) but it was such a relief to get it done right away. If you cannot walk at all, go to the ER, that is reason enough.
I kind sort of walk. I got the trash out today. Last night I got it all to the can. Today I got it to the street. My neighbors used to do that for me. I told them that was not necessary for the old lady next door. It’s not that hard.Now it is HARD.
TBC numbness is not the same as paralyzed. I had numbness in my hands for months before a proper diagnosis but I could function. The primary doc passed me off to my oncologist who knows nothing about nerves. He assumed it was my cancer meds and told me to stop taking them, numbness didn’t improve. Finally I was referred to a neurologist and got some answers. If you are paralyzed, call 911. If you can walk slowly and drive, go to Urgent/Immediate care, they will take care of you. Sending hugs!
I’m sorry to keep commenting, but I’m just going to throw another idea out there… would you ever call 911? I mean not being able to feel your legs seems like a valid reason to ask for help. I know it’s more money , but they might navigate getting you into the ER faster than showing up at the window and waiting while they triage everyone else ahead of you.
It would also be good to have them rule out a stroke, MS, and other scary stuff.
This has been ongoing for DAYS. Since July 4th actually. So no.
We all love ypu TT and most of us have been around here for a long time and seen your decline. You will probably get mad and scream at me for this but you’ve asked for help and there are very good suggestions here especially about urgent care. But you have shot each one of those down because you don’t want to go or had a bad experience . But in reality I think you are terrified to find put what is really going on. We can’t make you go if you want help go to the urgent care now! It will take you months to get into a specialist . We all love you bur only you can get your ass into the car and GO
I’m so glad you can walk and drive! Perhaps it’s peripheral neuropathy? I’m agreeing with the oth the others here a trip to a good urgent care center or driving to a teaching hospital ER for assessment.
Try a shrink
Wow !
# empathetic much ?
Symptoms of nerve damage & you suggest a shrink ? You have quite the nerve ! Enjoy WLS it reeks of Windex amonnia & copious amounts tears!
I agree. I had to trad that twice to make sure if was reading it right
Sounds like it could be a herniated disc . You need an orthopedist. I would try for a large orthopedic group if possible ( only bc they will have specialist for every part of the body- hand docs, spine docs… ). I think you will Probably need an MRI to really see what’s going on .
thank you guys for being so helpful. I was worried you would all scream at me to do things but all the advice has been extremely helpful. i just need to find neurologists in Smyrna GA
TT, the reason everyone is telling you to go to Urgent care or ER is because it will send you to the top of the list with a specialist. Just trying to schedule on your own will take months to get in. This happened to my hubby two weeks ago. He injured his shoulder. When he tried to get in to a specialist, the wait was two months. We spent an afternoon at an Urgent care and he got a referral and was in in two days. I just Googled the average wait time at an Urgent care. Mornings and around dinner time are the worst. I think some allow you to get in the line before you get there online. Best
Please also get your blood work done to rule out other issues that could be exacerbating your symptoms. I have a PPO, but I still had to go to my family doc and get a referral first. Take care of yourself though. Also with UC you can make appts and just hang out in the car till they are ready. But I know, there not cheap.
Oy. I have no idea what I just did.
But Look at POTS and Transverse Myelitis.
Both are rarely considered initially and require a neurological diagnosis. but a lot of drs don’t even consider either.
Sweetie. I am old. I had the dreaded I’VE FALLEN AND I CAN’T GET UP MOMENT! Also thanks to all for not mentioning that part, y;all are the best. But I can assure you it was not funny.
I am terrified of storms and it was the worst one I have ever survived. And lightning hit the pole at the end of my driveway. THE WHOLE NIGHT WAS TERRIFYING.
Oh I am certain it was. Forgive my seemingly chaotic posts. I suffered a stress induced seizure / stroke about 7 wks and I’m still a wee bit less than 100%. But my one of my daughters first symptoms was not being able to feel her legs. And drs tend to write that off as ‘all in your head’.
I don’t comment much but I am wondering if it started a month or two after being sick or having a big stress? Something similar happened to me once after being ill and it turned out to be a virus attacking my nerves. I was so scared because I was numb but thankfully I worked with someone who knew what it was and got me on all of the right supplements to kill the virus. It worked really well. I wish you a speedy recovery and try not to get too scared. You can treat whatever it is once you know!
So, I am not exactly sure if the numbness in the fall caused my fall. Or if the fall caused the numbness.
Everything is really hard right now. I’m sorry. And thanks for the help.
Hey TT, I have had MANY back issues including a spinal fusion. If is a back problem, 99% of the time you start with physical therapy. I think in Georgia you can go to a physical therapist without getting a dr.’s prescription. If you can find a good physical therapist, go in for just a consult. You can usually get an appointment in a few days.They might be able to give you somethings to do to help your back while you wait for an appointment with a dr. (and they know all the good dr.’s).
my back is WAY better. I just need to feel my feet.
I agree with Momof3. It does sound like a herniated disc, probably from your fall. Trying to see a doctor in a large orthopedic center would be a great plan. They’d be more inclined to understand what you’re going through and want to figure out the best way to fix it. It’s horrible to be uninsured right now when you could use a good insurance plan.
I looked up McKenzie Physical Therapists in your area because the McKenzie Method of handling disc injuries worked for me and someone else I know. They taught me the complete opposite of what every other PT had taught me, and for the first time, it worked. Try Resurgens Orthapedics in Austell which I believe is near you. Looks like they have a lot of diagnostic options too. Good luck!! I know I keep posting… I have been down this road 4 or 5 times myself.
For those who missed it I fell on July 4th and hit myself super hard on a cast iron bathtub. While some thought it was something to mock. So yay??? The question here is what came first the chicken or the egg? Did I fall because of a neurological issue? Or do I have a neurological issue now because of the fall. Or maybe I am just batshit crazy.
No, you’re not. I posted a reply about what happened to my husband up there thread, but I think you’ll miss it. Long and short, he fell, he started to experience numbness. Through scans and X-rays, they found that he has degenerated discs in his upper and lower spine that are on some nerves. His is so odd. The advice he received from the ER (he passed out and hit his head causing a concussion, so we had to go!) was to wait a month and if it was still there, go to primary for referral to neurologist. Our bodies are like the AT&T coverage map with nerves and if they are impinged, tingles happen. Yours is dangerous, because it’s BOTH LEGS! Don’t feel crazy. No one feels wonderful when they are misdiagnosed and shuffled. He’s losing his mind and it’s hard to witness. I hate it for both of you.
Good vibes, lady
Tamara,
I know that you are also concerned about the cost. Take your travel money and go to a doctor. The travel money does you no good if you aren’t able to travel due to a physical problem. Can you call one of your siblings and have them take you? I don’t think they live close, but if they knew how worried you are, they might be able to come help you get some care.
a laugh for us all because can we PLEASE lighten up. I will be fine. You know unless I am an amputee…
Anyway Tiffany, (yes that one) sends me emails. And also, I am so fancy that I was like, WHY ARE THE SENDING shit about SILVER? THAT IS FOR THE POORS. PS I am poor.
However many years ago I went to Vegas with some young girl who was an Internet friend at the time. THIS WAS YEARS AGO. And I wanted to buy some dumb thing the mean girls at my school were wearing. The salesgirl look at me like I was dog shit. Instead I bought a four thousand dollar gold bracelet.
I’m not sure why I am sharing this… but I kind of might be dying. So it is perhaps a deathbed confessional of sorts,. I will die with all my gold bangles on!
I know someone will Uber me to where I need to go. I just don’t know where to go. I’ve already mention.ed it at Urgent Care they suck and I am not giving them another $250 for nothing but a UTI antibiotic
I typed a comment, was about to post and it disappeared.
I know it’s scary. I have cervical, thoracic and lumbar spinal issues – protruding discs, bulging discs, herniated discs, stenosis, moderate to severe arthritis. Every Dr I’ve seen has asked if I was in a bad wreck. I actually was not. My husband broke his back some yrs ago. We have both yet to have surgery. You need an orthopedic surgeon, who is not knife happy.
I went to an orthopedic surgeon yrs ago. Did not care for him. He handed me my MRI and scheduled me w/ a Dr to start radio frequency ablations (burning the nerves). I did that but was not happy because I still did not understand what was wrong. I went to my husband’s Dr who does his epidurals – very caring Dr. He spent time explaining what my MRI showed. I began going to him. He sent me for multiple opinions w/surgeons. He did not want me going to anyone who is knife happy. Back surgery is something you do not want unless absolutely necessary. Surgery can alleviate some pain, but cause other pain (my husband was told this when he sought multiple opinions when he broke his back). Fusing a disc can weaken discs above and below the affected disc. You may not even need surgery. I get ablations now every 6 mos. They are a life changer!!! My husband gets epidurals. We both have pain that radiates – mine into my hips- his into his legs caused from our lumbar issues. I just don’t want anxiety to take over before you know what you are dealing with because it may be something you can treat with an epidural, ablation, etc. I hate to see you trying to keep tolerating the pain and possibly exacerbate the issue.
You really need an orthopedic surgeon to order a MRI to find out what’s going on. I wish you were closer to Nashville. I just don’t have a clue about Drs around ATL. Think one step at a time (I have to force myself to do this because I’m a big “what if” person). Reach out to us here. Hopefully someone in the group has experience w/Drs in your area.
Sorry – neurosurgeon not orthopedic surgeon. I’ve been dealing with my foot currently which is orthopedic.
I very much understand about not wanting to go to the ER because of possible exposure to Covid, especially with the current variant. I am immune-compromised, I had to go to the ER recently and when I told them that and cannot be near people, they put me in an area while I was waiting for my appointment away from the general crowd. You just need to inform them your health is fragile and cannot be near anyone, and they will/should be accommodating as they don’t wish to be responsible over the possibly of compounding your illnesses. If they give you a hard time over this, insist.
There is a general term for your symptoms – Hypoesthesia. It is a common side effect of various medical conditions that manifests as a reduced sense of touch or sensation, or a partial loss of sensitivity to sensory stimuli. In everyday speech this is generally referred to as numbness
It is diagnosed through the use of various imaging studies.
I live alone with a variety of daunting health problems and I know how alarming it is to start to see yourself not able to do all that is needed to take care of everything that is involved in living independently. I know it is hard, but you must investigate why you are having these frightening problems as it is doubtful it will go away on its own.
I’ve had my share of gaslighting doctors, but the good ones are out there, you just need to overlook the assholes and keep searching for the right people that will listen and help you.
And remember, you have a strong community here that cares deeply for you and support you.
I totally get not wanting to go to an ER or
Urgent care. What type of insurance do you have? Reading through all of these comments and replies looks like you were scheduling an appointment with a neurologist—that’s great. I’m not sure in your area what would be faster for an appointment—but an orthopedic surgeon also is fair game for this type of thing. Ultimately if it is a spinal issue anyways it would be an ortho that does your surgery. Try to get apt with neurologist and also an ortho at the same time and take whatever comes first!
I don’t have insurance.
I don’t want you to think I am closing comments because of you. It’s just I had all the suggestions I need.
And I appreciate everyone.
In other news I do not know how to make comments stop.
Divine intervetion. God knows you need the support in the comments. ❤🙏
Hi TT,
I don’t know your age, but you call yourself old.
I’m 67 and have been on Medicare for 3 years. I do pay extra each month for a supplement.
There hasn’t been anything, including surgeries, that Medicare hasn’t covered.
Good luck!!! Keep us informed if you can!
As someone who struggles with neuropathy due (and countless other issues), what you are describing sounds very similar. You need an MRI to determine the damage and to see if bulging/herniated discs are putting pressure on your spine. A GP can order an MRI, which would save you the cost of seeing a neurologist (who is considered a specialist). In addition, please look into Medicaid in your area. It’s actually fairly easy to qualify for and basically covers everything.
I live with chronic, debilitating pain and seeing a therapist has helped me manage my day to day life. I know it’s not for everyone, but it’s worth a shotll liv. Try to focus on what you do accomplish instead of what you should accomplish
Finally, listen to your body. If you can’t do something, don’t. Overdoing it helps nothing. I have been dealing with my issues for years and the pandemic gave me the opportunity to hide and not feel like I had to do much. Like you, as Covid started to subside, I also had trouble doing basic things, grocery stores gave me panic attacks, hell, everything gave me a panic attack. Vodka was my best friend. I’m slowly coming out of it and you will too. The fact that you are asking for help is proof of that.
Good luck TT, we’re all rooting for you.
I think it’s a back disc problem. About 20 years ago, I was home alone and couldn’t feel my leg. I thought I was paralysed. So scary. Called an ambulance, went to hospital. It was a slipped disc on the sciatic nerve. Perhaps when you fell you hurt your disc.
I’m sorry about what you’re going through, it sounds really scary. I agree with the recommendation to seek urgent care or, if possible, an appointment with a neurologist. I seem to recall you being sick not too long ago, possibly with Covid or maybe it was a different miserable virus? I mention it because your symptoms sound similar to what a friend went through after a bad cold and she was eventually diagnosed with Guillan-Barre syndrome. It started with numbness in her legs and in time, she could not feel her feet and was barely able walk. Long story short, she was hospitalized for a week or so but in time, made a full recovery. Whatever the issue may be, I hope that you get some answers and are feeling better soon. ♡
I’m going to go out on a limb here and suggest a chiropractor. My husband needs to get into his neurologist that he has been seeing for 6 years and the first available appointment is 3 months from now. Speciality doctors will require multiple visits and are so backlogged because of COVID. You may need one, but a chiropractor may offer some sort of pain management in the short term. Good luck Tamara!
I am in hospital and had spine surgery yesterday. My discs were so bad that they were compressing my spinal cord creating very low blood flow. Also they were pressing on the many nerves creating numbness & pain in many different areas.
Call a neurosurgeon’s office and ask the secretary who you should see. The doctor will probably get you an MRI right away. I think it was about $2000 out of pocket for MRI. Can you sign up for Obama care quickly?
Surgery was pretty easy and I had multiple discs to replace. Most numbness ends right away. Light immediately during operation as you get blood flow back!
Not sure if that helps. You have my email if you want reach out. Sending you my best Tamara!
Sorry for the comment, but have you thought about a chiropractor? You may have a disc that is impinging on your nerve that connects to your feet. Every disc correlates to a part of your body. It sounds like you may have your sciatic nerve impinged. It is No Joke! A good chiropractor can twist your body like wringing out a washrag (sounds awful) and get that disc back into place. I fell recently and was walking around like one leg was longer than the other. Luckily my ex has been cracking my back for 35 years, and I saw him Sunday and he cracked it. Sweet Relief!
We do worry about you. There is a chiropractor here that will do it for $35, no appointment necessary. I will email you the chiropractor’s number near you. Hugs. Big Hugs.
First take a deep breath. You need to go to a walk in clinic and explain that you believe you need a neurologist. Ask for an xray and the referral have them call that Dr to pave the way for you. Try to avoid the ER.
This is the process. It is a long, beurocratic nightmare to make you give up and take your money and leave you broken in health, wealth, depression and insane. This is the process I’m sorry to say. But you must follow through and stick with it. ASAPget you a primary care Dr and start a relationship. This will be your lifeblood.
At your age I sat down due to disability and damn near gave up. I was forced to get a primary 10y ago. Changed my life. I won’t try to diagnose you but I will say, you as me, have a sedentary isolated life and our bodies stiffen and develop these issues. Probably something very easily fixed. But you have no choice now. Your body and mind are telling you to get up and get to it.
I love you and my heart is hurting because I know the fear. But this is just the start. You will be fine, stronger, and living those dreams. God speed XO
That was such a kind response it brought tears to my eyes. I agree with you. I hope our dear TT received the love and guidance.
Applause
I hate giving advice, I really do. But I’m so sorry you’re suffering like this, so I’ll just put in my two cents. I would see a neurologist. If you have a GP, they can refer you, if you do not, you can get online and Google neurologists in your area and even check their patient reviews online to see what people say about them. If you see any you like, you can call their offices and find out if any can see an urgent case like yours and how soon. I don’t say any of this in a cavalier fashion, I know what an absolute f-ing pain any of that is. I’ve been suffering with a worsening of a long term GI issue and I can’t bring myself to go in for another work up, especially not during Covid, and also it seems futile since all testing and treatments for my issue never seem to help for any length of time. About the ER, I honestly wouldn’t go unless things become even worse and you need to call an ambulance. Walk in ER patients often just get triaged and then passed on to specialists. What you need is the specialist anyway, so why incur a huge ER bill when you can expend what limited energy you have getting to a specialist direct. I hope the wait time between finding someone and getting in is short. I wish none of this was happening to you
I agree!! I have a PCP who I trust. You can Google doctors in your area and see how people comment about them in order to narrow it down. Then just make notes about all your symptoms – I always take a list. They will refer you to the appropriate next steps.
May you find a solution to your problem soon🙏🏻
One thing that stood out to me the other day was that you said that you sit crossed-legged on the couch for hours at at time. I know that if I try that my legs go numb. Can you stop sitting that way and try to stretch your legs out several times a day? You may have cut off circulation or pinched a nerve. Wishing you the best.
Only adding on(probably repetitively) and with a bit of trepidation because of direct request for thoughts and like many who visit here, really do care about how you’re doing and for better or worse, appreciate your candor.
— Look up “peripheral neuropathy”
(check: e.g. Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic websites) (there are many more neuropathies than diabetic neuropathy,)
Your symptoms are consistent with one of the neuropathies (may be something else, but it’s a more likely place to start) On the good vibe front, not an uncommon condition, number of medications and other things that can help, people live with it long term)
— if Urgent Care is the only option, go in, say you need to be evaluated for peripheral neuropathy. This will also help to rule out other things that might be more easily addressed (e.g. Vit B12 deficiency, which can cause similar neuropathic symptoms)
Not sure if you have coverage to be referred to a neurologist, but the Urgent Care practitioner can run at least the blood work and do an initial neurological examination.
Please take care — also, can deeply and painfully relate to how hard it is for so many practical and other reasons to be able to take the proactive steps that are needed. It’s clear how many readers send positive momentum for you.
We tryin’ to be ” the — wind — beneath — your — wings.” As it were.
You need to describe your symptoms to the Urgent Care clinic the way you did here, “I can’t feel my feet and the whole bottom half of my body is numb and has been since … I have difficulty walking and I have recently fallen. ” Then they can do the blood work and tests to check for common conditions that could cause this and screen you for a few things.. They can also get you to the right doctor, you shouldn’t run to a nuero based off of people not qualified to diagnose you nor have examined you. You have to be exact with your symptoms – you are having some kind of neuropathy of unknown cause at this point.
Can you share (email maybe) your general area/borough? I’ll help do some research for you in areas that are closest to you. I know you’re in Atlanta somewhere but, having been there, I know how vague that could be (location wise)
I agree with the others about the potential for back issues or diabetes. If you’ve had underlying and non diagnosed diabetes for a while, it’s entirely possible that you’re experiencing numbness due to the diabetes. I have a confirmed diagnosis of diabetes and have had the numbness show up in my hands at night – it gets progressively worse so medication to offset the issue is critical. If this is a result of your fall, then that is also pretty critical but (to me) not as concerning as potential diabetes but… I’m not expert on back issues. I’ll do some digging if you don’t mind the help. I would also avoid the ER and random docs at all costs. It’s just too expensive
I don’t know if anyone has suggested it, but would a chiropractor help? They focus on the spine and everything surrounding it. Some chiropractors are a full service that has a physical therapist and massage therapist in the practice.
Good suggestion. I’m suffering as we speak with Sciatic Nerve pain. Am seeing an Orthopedic doctor as well as a Chiropractor. I look forward to a good recovery.
I suggested the same but comments tend to get lost here. Plus specialty doctors take MONTHS to get in to these days.
So I googled “Atlanta House Calls” and a few came up. The prices seem reasonable and services that can include referrals look appropriate too. I have never used these services but maybe it could help?
All I can do is worry for you Tamara. I hope it is not too serious.
Suggest you see your family dr.
Start with the symptoms that bother and concern you the most first.
Don’t start with other issues and then throw in oh and my legs feel numb etc and this is my main concern.
Try to be concise.
Since July 4th I’ve been experiencing the following :
1,2,3
A good FP will figure out what needs to be done re :
Bloods , EMG, MRI , refer on if necessary.
If I remember correctly, you had previously mentioned you were Choctaw, so for enrolled band members some Tribal Nations do offer medical assistance to their tribal members, some stipulate you need to be enrolled, living within their reservation boundaries, but my Nation, does not stipulate that, our culture has always been one that reveres and treats their Elders with respect, so we provide substantial assistance for our Elders, who suffered and did without many benefits during their lifetimes. Just a suggestion. Praying for you T. Love ya!
As your twin as an old fashioned well mannered well intentioned Italian Catholic gentleman of a certain age I beg you get a full battery of tests from your primary care physcian. Yes I know everyday aging sucks & we all go thru that but these symptoms are not good & you need to get these multiple medical issues resolved.I know its easy for me to say & for you hard to do but you MUST try ! Babysteps crawl if you have to.
Sorry for my over involed passionate fiercley concerned hohohomo sexual diatribe. # rant over
All my love
All my prayers
Every candle in this room
Always
Certainely you’re going to get lots of suggestions from all of us non physicians. Although we love you we are not qualified to diagnose your ailment. To that end we urge you to see a medical professional as soon as possible perhaps starting with the dreaded ER. From there the doctor can make recommendations to the right specialist. Keep an open mind into the fact that your issue may be a dual diagnosis including both mental and physical. You mentioned you’ve saved enough money to go anywhere you want so why no invest in good health. Meanwhile we’re all praying that your current situation is quickly addressed and that you receive the care you need. It’s scary but many of us have had to walk thru this valley to get to our mountain. Be encouraged.
I’m fortunate enough that my DR is one of my best friends and is very forward thinking. Prior to that I had a lot of luck with Nurse Practitioners. They seemed to be more thorough and take more time with me. I only mention the NPs because you had 2 DRs that didn’t seem to care.
Best of luck!! You really need to do something and be patient. It’s going to take time first to find the problem and 2nd to resolve it.
my advice, since you asked, is to give up drinking for a day, or a week or longer. once your brain unpickles, you might think clearer and your judgment will improve.
Advice given without judgment, only concern.
Thanks everyone. Especially the person who attempted to post a list of clinics/Doctors near me. It got hung up in moderation and I just left it there to refer to when I am awake in the fucking DAY TIME.
In other news, things are a bit better today. I have more feeling in my feet than I have had. I promise to do less whining and more recapping. OR AT LEAST TRY TO. I was mean to my sister today and I feel bad. She was just being concerned and trying to help and I just kind of lost it.
I’m glad you are a bit better!!
It’s possible you had a reaction to the macrobid used for the UTI
It can cause numbness or peripheral neuropathy
Just called sis back. We’re all good. She’s the best.
Also TT I am sure that we would all feel more comfortable about telling you our home remedies for this AFTER you get some good professional help. It is just too scary of a symptom to make uneducated guesses. Body trying to tell you something and all that.
Obviously there is an issue with your blood flow. Neuropathy comes to mind. You need to
see a Neurosurgeon ASAP NOT a Neurologist. I think the only way you are going to
be able to see one SOON is to go to the dreaded Emergency Room
at a local hospital, blow the horn for them to bring a wheel chair out
and tell them you cannot walk and had someone help you get in the car
and drive there. (You have to really put on a show for them to take
you seriously and that is a damn shame.) The trauma from the
fall could be responsible for this also as you have loss of
sensory nerve function. Demand to see a Neurosurgeon once you get in the hospital.
Prayers are with you. SERIOUSLY!!!!
OMG. I read through the very thoughtful posts and can see why you wanted to turn off the comments. I’m not sure anyone is hearing you say that you had a bad experience at the ER and urgent care. It’s possible the people who commented here haven’t been to the ER or Urgent Care recently. Unfortunately, I took my husband to Urgent Care and then was transferred immediately to the ER, diagnosed with a kidney stone, and sent home. THREE times until he was referred to a hospital 1.75 hours away for surgery. The hospitals closer didn’t have any available beds. It was an eye opening experience. I’ve been to the ERs with my Dad pre-COVID and it has changed a lot. For the much much worse.
My point is that being there over the 4th of July showed me that hospitals are way understaffed and those poor people doing their jobs are losing their love of their careers because of it. JMHO. Their empathy and warmth has been stomped out of them by having so m much expected from them (understaffed). I will only go to the ER if I have to. The ERs was full, it took 1.5 hours to see the triage nurse, he got a room and then it took 2.5 hours to get a pain killer. Just awful, truly. So, TT, I get it.
I’m not going to give you anymore advice because I think you stated pretty clearly you’re over it. Just wanted to let you know that I hear you. Again, good luck, let us know what you end up doing.
I hate that you are going through this! Another piece of advice. List all medications you take when seeing a doctor. I had a rare side effect from Lexapro which I’ve taken for awhile. Evidently as you age especially for women over 60 your electrolytes can be affected. I had dizziness and my left hand and foot kept getting that pins and needles feeling. I ended up in the hospital for 4 days as doctors tried to figure out what was wrong. I’m good now all levels normal. Not taking Lexapro! But I would never have thought of this kind of problem. Long story short- share everything so doctors can determine causes even rare ones like mine. And as many have already said get Urgent Care or the ER to refer you to a specialist! You have to advocate for yourself.
I have some feeling in my feet today. I’m hoping for a miraculous recovery. The comments here have been a mix of helpful and amusing. But right now I need to focus on preparing for my standing Tuesday night date with the hot captain from the land down under (where women blow and and plunder) I recently found out that blow is a misheard lyric but I’m still going with it because I can’t remember what it really is.. 🙂
I’m glad you called your sister!! Yeah!
My sister is the KINDEST person I know… unless you come for her. She wasn’t pissed at me at all. She gets it. We had a long talk about things nonrelated to my current health.
Women GLOW and men plunder, LOL
Men at Work, Land Down Under
Sending love from Anaheim,
*Mocha is Still missing*
Thank you. And I am so so SO sorry about Mocha. I hope Mocha shows up somewhere. I dealt with the death of Banjo but if he would have gone missing… I would have lost my mind. xoxoxoox ~tt
Also I thought is was blow…. LOL.
Im Australian and always thought it was blow.
THANK YOU! 🙂
T- You have some great readers, really great friends, people who have given great advice. Some could/are right on the money – Peripheral neuropathy, posture, spine issues, etc. I do know things will get better for yourself and perhaps in the future, you may want to look into some sort of health insurance, just not Kaiser. Coming out of left field, upon yourself feeling better, how about thinking about fostering some dogs/pups that need some love. I know this is a subject that is still very hard to think about, but, you can certainly help out some wonderful animals. Blessing to all.
I think foster care would be the way to go. Its short term so it gives you enough wiggle room if you need to travel have a medical emergency or just not a right fit for you. My dear friend does it ( she already has 3 fur babies of her own ) How it works shelters do outreach to rescue puppies from all over the country & send trucks to pick up crate & transfer to U.S.A then the foster clients take the dogs in ( after being given a clean bill of health washed & groomed etc ) to their home for an agreed upon time 3 weeks a month & after the dog has been socialized to living in a home they are then ready for adoption . Think about it. You are so good with children former students & Lawn Kid that a pup in need of companionship / love / attention / kindness would benefit both of you greatly. Off to bed start orientation at 2 p.m for new job. Thinking of you with sincere love twin
xo Marc
This 100% they also provide the food too!
Are either of your legs swollen and discolored, or are they warm to the touch anywhere? Are they discolored in addition to painful? These are signs of a blood clot and I’m concerned that you might have gotten one as a result of the fall you took and because your job requires you to be pretty sedentary. I have two genetic clotting disorders, and have had more clots than I care to remember. I had a scare myself recently when I fell of the carousel in Chattanooga’s Coolidge park … don’t ask! 😘 I am local [My punk lives in Smyrna!] and can drive you if you need or want someone to go with, or drive, you. If both legs feel the same, you can rule the possibility of a clot out.
I had numb legs from herniated discs , especially under my feet . Had surgery and as a result can’t feel some toes permanently. Maybe as a result , took a tumble down the stairs around the same time as your fall . Now the legs are numb again . I understand your whole “which came first” ? line of thinking .
I’m from Down Under and am neither glowing nor blowing at the moment .
Also found beta blockers is relieving my physical anxiety symptoms when leaving the house , which I rarely do cos my cat is dying .
I feel we are in some kind of sucky parallel universe .
I’m still anxious but at least I can breathe and not worry about a heart attack .
Yikes, friend. This is not something I’d wish on anyone. So sorry about your cat.
That sounds horrible. After falling/having schiatic/not sleeping well and being stressed out, I found a very good ostheopat that helped me so well. Then I had to take really good care, finish a bad relationship and take long walks in parks. All that helped..!
Is the numbness accompanied by pain? Is the numbness spreading day to day, going up your towards your hips, waist/belly?
Thought I had a pinched nerve around my shoulder blade. Even went to a chiropractor and acupuncturist No better.
If gets to you chest level, it’s an emergency.
Guillan-Barre Syndrome
Feel Better!!!!