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What Causes Walking Difficulty, Speech Disorder, Vision Impairment And Dizziness?

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Posted on Mon, 13 Jun 2016
Question: mobility and walking issues-speech difficulties-balance-dizziness-numbness-visual problems-weakness-sleep issues-fatigue-anxiety-thought fogginess-natural light/artificial bright lights and strenuous activities heightens all symptoms. As I investigate I am fearing multiple scrosis


I am a diabetic..have been diagnosed with vestibular miagrains
doctor
Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
MS unlikely.

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

The list of symptoms you mention is a long one. If related to central nervous system it would correspond to more than one area, as different areas of the brain control different functions, such as speech, vision, coordination etc.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one such condition which can affect different areas. However in you case it is unlikely due to one factor which is age. Your age is not typical for MS. It usually manifests in younger patients, it is exceptional to diagnose it after the age of 50 (not impossible but very rare).
So it is other brain involving conditions which should be considered first. One such possibility would be stroke. Given your history of diabetes you are at a higher risk for developing small vessel disease, so subdivision of stroke which indicates damage to small blood vessels in a widespread manner. There are also many other conditions which can cause such widespread symptoms such as infections or inflammatory conditions.
On the other hand metabolic or hormonal issues may play their role as well such as thyroid hormone deficiency.
Last (though common) depression and anxiety may also manifest with similar sensations.
For that reason since symptoms can be justified by many different causes further investigation is needed. I would say a careful evaluation is necessary starting with a neurological physical exam for neurological signs as well as some routine blood tests (blood count, glucose, liver and kidney function, electrolytes, thyroid function, vitamin B12 level).
If the neurological exam shows indeed that there are neurological deficits (impairment of speech, motor strength, balance, coordination or vision) then a MRI will be necessary to look for brain lesions.
Further management will of course depends on the originating cause as suggested by test results.

I remain at your disposal for further questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Olsi Taka (1 hour later)
All of these symptoms well over a year (maybe longer).
There is minimal arthritis fingers/thumbs
Should be no hormone issues-hysterectomy 21 years ago
thyroid tests results unremarkable
currently taking B12 supplement
I believe I have had all your listed blood tests in the last 4 months
speech impairment involves periodic--slight stutter, inability to get words out, even some repeating.
I really don't think there were stroke(s)
How do you suggest I follow thru with family pactricianer? Or should I seek out a neurologist?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (18 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Read below.

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for the additional information.

I wouldn't completely rule stroke out that easily. As I said not the stroke involving one big vessel you may be familiar with by ads in the media, with paralysis of the limbs. Small vessel disease which I mention is of insidious onset with cognitive impairment over years.

Anyway since metabolic and endocrine issues have been excluded I definitely think you need to see a neurologist to have a neurological exam and if that confirms all the neurological signs you mention be prescribed a MRI. Whether to see neurologist directly or by being referred by family practitioner depends a little on the organisation of the health care referral system in your country, where I practice patients are always referred to me by their family practitioner.

Let me know if I can further assist you.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Olsi Taka (4 minutes later)
Thank you for your time in this matter. I will seek continued care.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (6 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
doctor
Answered by
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Dr. Olsi Taka

Neurologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 3673 Questions

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What Causes Walking Difficulty, Speech Disorder, Vision Impairment And Dizziness?

Brief Answer: MS unlikely. Detailed Answer: I read your question carefully and I understand your concern. The list of symptoms you mention is a long one. If related to central nervous system it would correspond to more than one area, as different areas of the brain control different functions, such as speech, vision, coordination etc. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one such condition which can affect different areas. However in you case it is unlikely due to one factor which is age. Your age is not typical for MS. It usually manifests in younger patients, it is exceptional to diagnose it after the age of 50 (not impossible but very rare). So it is other brain involving conditions which should be considered first. One such possibility would be stroke. Given your history of diabetes you are at a higher risk for developing small vessel disease, so subdivision of stroke which indicates damage to small blood vessels in a widespread manner. There are also many other conditions which can cause such widespread symptoms such as infections or inflammatory conditions. On the other hand metabolic or hormonal issues may play their role as well such as thyroid hormone deficiency. Last (though common) depression and anxiety may also manifest with similar sensations. For that reason since symptoms can be justified by many different causes further investigation is needed. I would say a careful evaluation is necessary starting with a neurological physical exam for neurological signs as well as some routine blood tests (blood count, glucose, liver and kidney function, electrolytes, thyroid function, vitamin B12 level). If the neurological exam shows indeed that there are neurological deficits (impairment of speech, motor strength, balance, coordination or vision) then a MRI will be necessary to look for brain lesions. Further management will of course depends on the originating cause as suggested by test results. I remain at your disposal for further questions.