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What Causes Sudden Clenching Feeling In The Brain With Pressure In The Body?

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Posted on Mon, 13 Feb 2017
Question: I am 89 years old and healthy, but I had a strange feeling riding home on the CCRC bus. It felt like suddenly my brain clenched like a fist and my body tensed, and then it was gone in less than 30 seconds. I am feeling cautious and uneasy wondering if it was a brief or small stroke. But everything is normal now. Should I worry or get a follow up with a doctor?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (54 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Stroke unlikely.

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

Judging from that description I wouldn't say that to be a typical presentation for stroke or a TIA (transient ischemic attack). Usually stroke is manifested by symptoms such as weakness or numbness of the limbs on one side, balance and coordination issues, double vision or vision loss etc. That whole tensing of the body is not typical, as it doesn't correspond to a specific brain area.

So if you are feeling well now I wouldn't rush to the doctor for this one single episode. If it is repeated then perhaps a visit is advisable even if again short-lasting, not so much for the possibility of stroke than for the possibility of a seizure.

I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Olsi Taka (47 minutes later)
Thank you very much. It was so unusual it worried me, but I think your analysis is right and I will see what happens later.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (2 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
You're welcome!

Detailed Answer:
I hope things will work out for the best.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Olsi Taka

Neurologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 3672 Questions

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What Causes Sudden Clenching Feeling In The Brain With Pressure In The Body?

Brief Answer: Stroke unlikely. Detailed Answer: I read your question carefully and I understand your concern. Judging from that description I wouldn't say that to be a typical presentation for stroke or a TIA (transient ischemic attack). Usually stroke is manifested by symptoms such as weakness or numbness of the limbs on one side, balance and coordination issues, double vision or vision loss etc. That whole tensing of the body is not typical, as it doesn't correspond to a specific brain area. So if you are feeling well now I wouldn't rush to the doctor for this one single episode. If it is repeated then perhaps a visit is advisable even if again short-lasting, not so much for the possibility of stroke than for the possibility of a seizure. I remain at your disposal for other questions.