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Hi, I Have A Very Subtle Tightness In My Neck
Brief Answer:
These are not worrisome for stroke symptoms
Detailed Answer:
I would not worry about this be "early" symptoms of stroke since it is much more explainable but some form of cervical nerve root compression or other phenomenon. However, your history of chest pain with an angiogram is also something that tips my radar in the direction of a possible coronary artery ischemic manifestation.
However, if an actual CORONARY angiogram was performed and found to be unremarkable and if EKG and any other heart testing that a carrdiologist would typically do to rule out heart disease came up NEGATIVE then, you would be unlikely to have such a problem.
Back to the nerve root compression of the spinal nerves in the neck. The most LIKELY spinal nerve that COULD give such symptoms would be C3 since its DERMATOMAL (sensory) distribution is that of the neck and lower part of the jaw. Often, when compression is significant not only will there numbness/tingling feelings but also a burning type of pain. if you are only having the numbing or tingly sensations at this point then, perhaps it is merely a MILD compression of the nerve root.
BTW, funny little known fact about the group of problems known as HIGH CERVICAL RADICULOPATHIES (referring to the spinal nerves C1, C2, and C3) is that they have a tendency to send pain to the OPPOSITE side of where they are being compressed....or perhaps just the same side as where they are being pinched. The explanation to this lies in how those nerve pathways get circuited through the brain. The only reason I mention this is in case someone decides to do an X-ray...or better yet an MRI of the cervical spine and they ONLY were to see for example some arthritic disease in the high cervical spinal region but on the RIGHT side that they not AUTOMATICALLY OR IMMEDIATELY tell you that there is no way you could be having symptoms on the left side because in fact, it is possible. It may also be the radiologist's recommendation to get a SPIRAL CT of the cervical spine to read in conjunction with the MRI which is reasonable to do since other things that are more subtle about arthritic degeneration may not be as easily seen by the MR scanner. Also, electrical studies could be performed of the neck and left arm to try and detect conduction defects, however, this is invasive and not terribly comfortable for most people so I always like starting with the less invasive modalities of diagnosing the problem and climbing the ladder as necessary depending upon what you find through both testing AS WELL AS PHYSICAL OR NEUROLOGICAL EXAMINATION.
I guess I forgot to mention that I would recommend having a specialist doctor manage the ordering of the tests AFTER they've done a good neurological examination on you to see whether you're also having any symptoms of muscle weakness and such.
Also, there are possible metabolic concerns that could be looked into which can lead to early symptoms of numbness, tightness, tingling sensations and those would be things such as nutritional deficiencies such as B12, folate, and Vitamin D deficiencies. Although most instances of such deficiencies would tend to manifest in a more DISTAL and SYMMETRIC pattern (i.e. finger tips, toes, both sides of the body, etc.) I have seen instances of complaints only occurring on one side of the body in unexpected locations of the face or neck in association with very low levels of such nutritional elements which when corrected caused improvements in the clinical picture and indeed in some cases, resolution.
I wouldn't necessarily bet on that as a possibility, however, blood tests are not that costly and easy to perform. I would also say that things such as THYROID DYSFUNCTION and other glandular or endocrinological problems could occur and give similar symptoms.
Here's a reasonable article to read on cervical radiculopathies that explains a few other things aside from those I've mentioned that you might find helpful.
https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/pain-management-cervical-radiculopathy
But, I think the place to start digging for GOLD or drilling for OIL....or just FINDING THE ANSWER (HA!) starts with first ruling out the possibility of coronary artery disease. Once that has been accomplished then, the next step is to get a set of either radiographs of the neck but as a neurologist I would much prefer an MRI of the cervical spine and I would look for specific involvement of the C3 spinal nerve in this case either on the right OR the left. If your doctor can see something there that correlates then, the question is what to do about it. I wouldn't contemplate surgery of any kind in your case without much more evidence of symptomatology that develops over time and more proof that any arthritis seen in that area actually corresponds to your symptoms.
I think a conservative plan of neck exercises, stretches, and physical therapy guided by a professional may be all you really need.
And then, there are the labs that could always be obtained. That's how I would approach and handle things if you were on THIS SIDE of the Atlantic Ocean! Cheers!
If I've provided useful and helpful information to your questions could you do me a favor by CLOSING THE QUERY and taking a moment to provide some kind words of criticism and perhaps even stamp with a 5 STAR rating if you feel inclined? They'll give me either more peanuts in my Lunch pail next shift....OR....let me out an extra 10 minutes to be in the SUNSHINE and make MORE vitamin D so I can come back in ready to answer more questions! LOL
Do not forget to contact me in the future at: www.bit.ly/drdariushsaghafi for additional questions, comments, or concerns having to do with this topic or others.
This query has utilized a total of 55 minutes of professional time in research, review, and synthesis for the purpose of formulating a return statement.
These are not worrisome for stroke symptoms
Detailed Answer:
I would not worry about this be "early" symptoms of stroke since it is much more explainable but some form of cervical nerve root compression or other phenomenon. However, your history of chest pain with an angiogram is also something that tips my radar in the direction of a possible coronary artery ischemic manifestation.
However, if an actual CORONARY angiogram was performed and found to be unremarkable and if EKG and any other heart testing that a carrdiologist would typically do to rule out heart disease came up NEGATIVE then, you would be unlikely to have such a problem.
Back to the nerve root compression of the spinal nerves in the neck. The most LIKELY spinal nerve that COULD give such symptoms would be C3 since its DERMATOMAL (sensory) distribution is that of the neck and lower part of the jaw. Often, when compression is significant not only will there numbness/tingling feelings but also a burning type of pain. if you are only having the numbing or tingly sensations at this point then, perhaps it is merely a MILD compression of the nerve root.
BTW, funny little known fact about the group of problems known as HIGH CERVICAL RADICULOPATHIES (referring to the spinal nerves C1, C2, and C3) is that they have a tendency to send pain to the OPPOSITE side of where they are being compressed....or perhaps just the same side as where they are being pinched. The explanation to this lies in how those nerve pathways get circuited through the brain. The only reason I mention this is in case someone decides to do an X-ray...or better yet an MRI of the cervical spine and they ONLY were to see for example some arthritic disease in the high cervical spinal region but on the RIGHT side that they not AUTOMATICALLY OR IMMEDIATELY tell you that there is no way you could be having symptoms on the left side because in fact, it is possible. It may also be the radiologist's recommendation to get a SPIRAL CT of the cervical spine to read in conjunction with the MRI which is reasonable to do since other things that are more subtle about arthritic degeneration may not be as easily seen by the MR scanner. Also, electrical studies could be performed of the neck and left arm to try and detect conduction defects, however, this is invasive and not terribly comfortable for most people so I always like starting with the less invasive modalities of diagnosing the problem and climbing the ladder as necessary depending upon what you find through both testing AS WELL AS PHYSICAL OR NEUROLOGICAL EXAMINATION.
I guess I forgot to mention that I would recommend having a specialist doctor manage the ordering of the tests AFTER they've done a good neurological examination on you to see whether you're also having any symptoms of muscle weakness and such.
Also, there are possible metabolic concerns that could be looked into which can lead to early symptoms of numbness, tightness, tingling sensations and those would be things such as nutritional deficiencies such as B12, folate, and Vitamin D deficiencies. Although most instances of such deficiencies would tend to manifest in a more DISTAL and SYMMETRIC pattern (i.e. finger tips, toes, both sides of the body, etc.) I have seen instances of complaints only occurring on one side of the body in unexpected locations of the face or neck in association with very low levels of such nutritional elements which when corrected caused improvements in the clinical picture and indeed in some cases, resolution.
I wouldn't necessarily bet on that as a possibility, however, blood tests are not that costly and easy to perform. I would also say that things such as THYROID DYSFUNCTION and other glandular or endocrinological problems could occur and give similar symptoms.
Here's a reasonable article to read on cervical radiculopathies that explains a few other things aside from those I've mentioned that you might find helpful.
https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/pain-management-cervical-radiculopathy
But, I think the place to start digging for GOLD or drilling for OIL....or just FINDING THE ANSWER (HA!) starts with first ruling out the possibility of coronary artery disease. Once that has been accomplished then, the next step is to get a set of either radiographs of the neck but as a neurologist I would much prefer an MRI of the cervical spine and I would look for specific involvement of the C3 spinal nerve in this case either on the right OR the left. If your doctor can see something there that correlates then, the question is what to do about it. I wouldn't contemplate surgery of any kind in your case without much more evidence of symptomatology that develops over time and more proof that any arthritis seen in that area actually corresponds to your symptoms.
I think a conservative plan of neck exercises, stretches, and physical therapy guided by a professional may be all you really need.
And then, there are the labs that could always be obtained. That's how I would approach and handle things if you were on THIS SIDE of the Atlantic Ocean! Cheers!
If I've provided useful and helpful information to your questions could you do me a favor by CLOSING THE QUERY and taking a moment to provide some kind words of criticism and perhaps even stamp with a 5 STAR rating if you feel inclined? They'll give me either more peanuts in my Lunch pail next shift....OR....let me out an extra 10 minutes to be in the SUNSHINE and make MORE vitamin D so I can come back in ready to answer more questions! LOL
Do not forget to contact me in the future at: www.bit.ly/drdariushsaghafi for additional questions, comments, or concerns having to do with this topic or others.
This query has utilized a total of 55 minutes of professional time in research, review, and synthesis for the purpose of formulating a return statement.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Brief Answer:
These are not worrisome for stroke symptoms
Detailed Answer:
I would not worry about this be "early" symptoms of stroke since it is much more explainable but some form of cervical nerve root compression or other phenomenon. However, your history of chest pain with an angiogram is also something that tips my radar in the direction of a possible coronary artery ischemic manifestation.
However, if an actual CORONARY angiogram was performed and found to be unremarkable and if EKG and any other heart testing that a carrdiologist would typically do to rule out heart disease came up NEGATIVE then, you would be unlikely to have such a problem.
Back to the nerve root compression of the spinal nerves in the neck. The most LIKELY spinal nerve that COULD give such symptoms would be C3 since its DERMATOMAL (sensory) distribution is that of the neck and lower part of the jaw. Often, when compression is significant not only will there numbness/tingling feelings but also a burning type of pain. if you are only having the numbing or tingly sensations at this point then, perhaps it is merely a MILD compression of the nerve root.
BTW, funny little known fact about the group of problems known as HIGH CERVICAL RADICULOPATHIES (referring to the spinal nerves C1, C2, and C3) is that they have a tendency to send pain to the OPPOSITE side of where they are being compressed....or perhaps just the same side as where they are being pinched. The explanation to this lies in how those nerve pathways get circuited through the brain. The only reason I mention this is in case someone decides to do an X-ray...or better yet an MRI of the cervical spine and they ONLY were to see for example some arthritic disease in the high cervical spinal region but on the RIGHT side that they not AUTOMATICALLY OR IMMEDIATELY tell you that there is no way you could be having symptoms on the left side because in fact, it is possible. It may also be the radiologist's recommendation to get a SPIRAL CT of the cervical spine to read in conjunction with the MRI which is reasonable to do since other things that are more subtle about arthritic degeneration may not be as easily seen by the MR scanner. Also, electrical studies could be performed of the neck and left arm to try and detect conduction defects, however, this is invasive and not terribly comfortable for most people so I always like starting with the less invasive modalities of diagnosing the problem and climbing the ladder as necessary depending upon what you find through both testing AS WELL AS PHYSICAL OR NEUROLOGICAL EXAMINATION.
I guess I forgot to mention that I would recommend having a specialist doctor manage the ordering of the tests AFTER they've done a good neurological examination on you to see whether you're also having any symptoms of muscle weakness and such.
Also, there are possible metabolic concerns that could be looked into which can lead to early symptoms of numbness, tightness, tingling sensations and those would be things such as nutritional deficiencies such as B12, folate, and Vitamin D deficiencies. Although most instances of such deficiencies would tend to manifest in a more DISTAL and SYMMETRIC pattern (i.e. finger tips, toes, both sides of the body, etc.) I have seen instances of complaints only occurring on one side of the body in unexpected locations of the face or neck in association with very low levels of such nutritional elements which when corrected caused improvements in the clinical picture and indeed in some cases, resolution.
I wouldn't necessarily bet on that as a possibility, however, blood tests are not that costly and easy to perform. I would also say that things such as THYROID DYSFUNCTION and other glandular or endocrinological problems could occur and give similar symptoms.
Here's a reasonable article to read on cervical radiculopathies that explains a few other things aside from those I've mentioned that you might find helpful.
https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/pain-management-cervical-radiculopathy
But, I think the place to start digging for GOLD or drilling for OIL....or just FINDING THE ANSWER (HA!) starts with first ruling out the possibility of coronary artery disease. Once that has been accomplished then, the next step is to get a set of either radiographs of the neck but as a neurologist I would much prefer an MRI of the cervical spine and I would look for specific involvement of the C3 spinal nerve in this case either on the right OR the left. If your doctor can see something there that correlates then, the question is what to do about it. I wouldn't contemplate surgery of any kind in your case without much more evidence of symptomatology that develops over time and more proof that any arthritis seen in that area actually corresponds to your symptoms.
I think a conservative plan of neck exercises, stretches, and physical therapy guided by a professional may be all you really need.
And then, there are the labs that could always be obtained. That's how I would approach and handle things if you were on THIS SIDE of the Atlantic Ocean! Cheers!
If I've provided useful and helpful information to your questions could you do me a favor by CLOSING THE QUERY and taking a moment to provide some kind words of criticism and perhaps even stamp with a 5 STAR rating if you feel inclined? They'll give me either more peanuts in my Lunch pail next shift....OR....let me out an extra 10 minutes to be in the SUNSHINE and make MORE vitamin D so I can come back in ready to answer more questions! LOL
Do not forget to contact me in the future at: www.bit.ly/drdariushsaghafi for additional questions, comments, or concerns having to do with this topic or others.
This query has utilized a total of 55 minutes of professional time in research, review, and synthesis for the purpose of formulating a return statement.
These are not worrisome for stroke symptoms
Detailed Answer:
I would not worry about this be "early" symptoms of stroke since it is much more explainable but some form of cervical nerve root compression or other phenomenon. However, your history of chest pain with an angiogram is also something that tips my radar in the direction of a possible coronary artery ischemic manifestation.
However, if an actual CORONARY angiogram was performed and found to be unremarkable and if EKG and any other heart testing that a carrdiologist would typically do to rule out heart disease came up NEGATIVE then, you would be unlikely to have such a problem.
Back to the nerve root compression of the spinal nerves in the neck. The most LIKELY spinal nerve that COULD give such symptoms would be C3 since its DERMATOMAL (sensory) distribution is that of the neck and lower part of the jaw. Often, when compression is significant not only will there numbness/tingling feelings but also a burning type of pain. if you are only having the numbing or tingly sensations at this point then, perhaps it is merely a MILD compression of the nerve root.
BTW, funny little known fact about the group of problems known as HIGH CERVICAL RADICULOPATHIES (referring to the spinal nerves C1, C2, and C3) is that they have a tendency to send pain to the OPPOSITE side of where they are being compressed....or perhaps just the same side as where they are being pinched. The explanation to this lies in how those nerve pathways get circuited through the brain. The only reason I mention this is in case someone decides to do an X-ray...or better yet an MRI of the cervical spine and they ONLY were to see for example some arthritic disease in the high cervical spinal region but on the RIGHT side that they not AUTOMATICALLY OR IMMEDIATELY tell you that there is no way you could be having symptoms on the left side because in fact, it is possible. It may also be the radiologist's recommendation to get a SPIRAL CT of the cervical spine to read in conjunction with the MRI which is reasonable to do since other things that are more subtle about arthritic degeneration may not be as easily seen by the MR scanner. Also, electrical studies could be performed of the neck and left arm to try and detect conduction defects, however, this is invasive and not terribly comfortable for most people so I always like starting with the less invasive modalities of diagnosing the problem and climbing the ladder as necessary depending upon what you find through both testing AS WELL AS PHYSICAL OR NEUROLOGICAL EXAMINATION.
I guess I forgot to mention that I would recommend having a specialist doctor manage the ordering of the tests AFTER they've done a good neurological examination on you to see whether you're also having any symptoms of muscle weakness and such.
Also, there are possible metabolic concerns that could be looked into which can lead to early symptoms of numbness, tightness, tingling sensations and those would be things such as nutritional deficiencies such as B12, folate, and Vitamin D deficiencies. Although most instances of such deficiencies would tend to manifest in a more DISTAL and SYMMETRIC pattern (i.e. finger tips, toes, both sides of the body, etc.) I have seen instances of complaints only occurring on one side of the body in unexpected locations of the face or neck in association with very low levels of such nutritional elements which when corrected caused improvements in the clinical picture and indeed in some cases, resolution.
I wouldn't necessarily bet on that as a possibility, however, blood tests are not that costly and easy to perform. I would also say that things such as THYROID DYSFUNCTION and other glandular or endocrinological problems could occur and give similar symptoms.
Here's a reasonable article to read on cervical radiculopathies that explains a few other things aside from those I've mentioned that you might find helpful.
https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/pain-management-cervical-radiculopathy
But, I think the place to start digging for GOLD or drilling for OIL....or just FINDING THE ANSWER (HA!) starts with first ruling out the possibility of coronary artery disease. Once that has been accomplished then, the next step is to get a set of either radiographs of the neck but as a neurologist I would much prefer an MRI of the cervical spine and I would look for specific involvement of the C3 spinal nerve in this case either on the right OR the left. If your doctor can see something there that correlates then, the question is what to do about it. I wouldn't contemplate surgery of any kind in your case without much more evidence of symptomatology that develops over time and more proof that any arthritis seen in that area actually corresponds to your symptoms.
I think a conservative plan of neck exercises, stretches, and physical therapy guided by a professional may be all you really need.
And then, there are the labs that could always be obtained. That's how I would approach and handle things if you were on THIS SIDE of the Atlantic Ocean! Cheers!
If I've provided useful and helpful information to your questions could you do me a favor by CLOSING THE QUERY and taking a moment to provide some kind words of criticism and perhaps even stamp with a 5 STAR rating if you feel inclined? They'll give me either more peanuts in my Lunch pail next shift....OR....let me out an extra 10 minutes to be in the SUNSHINE and make MORE vitamin D so I can come back in ready to answer more questions! LOL
Do not forget to contact me in the future at: www.bit.ly/drdariushsaghafi for additional questions, comments, or concerns having to do with this topic or others.
This query has utilized a total of 55 minutes of professional time in research, review, and synthesis for the purpose of formulating a return statement.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you for the very detailed answer. I appreciate it. I just want to add a few things before I close the incident. In Nov 2018 I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Since then I have radically changed my lifestyle, eliminated high glycemic foods completely and increased exercise. I have restored my glucose levels to that of a non diabetic (daily measurements with glucometer) lost over 25 kg since November. The results are visible and generally I feel great. The one thing that bothers me is that my cholesterol is still very high. 247 in March 2019. This is why I am worried about stroke. I am now 80 kg, glucose levels consistently low, triglycerides also greatly improved but hdl and ldl still not great, although hdl: triglyceride ratio is ok at less than 2
Thank you for the very detailed answer. I appreciate it. I just want to add a few things before I close the incident. In Nov 2018 I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Since then I have radically changed my lifestyle, eliminated high glycemic foods completely and increased exercise. I have restored my glucose levels to that of a non diabetic (daily measurements with glucometer) lost over 25 kg since November. The results are visible and generally I feel great. The one thing that bothers me is that my cholesterol is still very high. 247 in March 2019. This is why I am worried about stroke. I am now 80 kg, glucose levels consistently low, triglycerides also greatly improved but hdl and ldl still not great, although hdl: triglyceride ratio is ok at less than 2
Brief Answer:
Congratulations on making those DIFFICULT changes
Detailed Answer:
You deserve a lot of credit in making all of those changes in favor of improving your health. And thank you for the additional information which could be of some relevance.
Honestly, even though you were diagnosed with diabetes which we know can still have associated consequence of neuropathy and other issues DESPITE BEST EFFORTS at strict control and management. However, in this case your presentation of the paresthesias in the neck and jaw are much more consistent with a radiculopathy compared to a neuropathy. And so, even though the presence of your DM diagnosis is important and the metabolic importance of the indices you mention cannot be ignored in terms of cholesterol fractions and lipids I do not think they are impacting or causing the stated symptoms.
As far as being concerned over stroke. I understand your concerns over wanting to get better numbers for your HDL and LDL. Medications are available that perform that job but of course, DIET AND EXERCISE are even a more preferred way of achieving those goals if possible. Ingestion of substances high in Omega 3 fatty acids is probably my best line of suggestion when it comes to improving your HDL and lowering your LDL. I recently read some studies looking at things such as TURMERIC, ALPHA LIPOIC ACID, and a few other strains of plants, spices, etc. While none of those substances will harm you if taken in reasonable amounts or doses....I can't absolutely stand behind them since the studies were not actually double blinded and compared to known standards and controls.
Your risk for stroke will be lowest if you avoid or stop smoking, control diabetes, control hypertension, become cardiovascularly conditioned at a good body weight. Straight out numbers having to do with TOTAL CHOLESTEROL and even some of the fractions that have been commonplace to talk about for decades are starting to be questioned in terms of absolute importance or prognostic values. More and more nutritionists are taking closer looks and asking their patients to become more in tune with the FATTY ACID or LIPID content of food and beverage (milk shakes, smoothies, etc.). And so, perhaps the era of CHOLESTEROLMANIA may be turning a corner...I don't know....just something I'll throw out there for consideration.
I think if you make the changes STICK that you've been able to at least implement for the past 7-8 months and fine tune your diet and exercise to become more healthful in terms of increasing your fresh fruit and vegetable portions daily, MORE SALADS, good proteins, limiting fatty acids and lipids overall in the diet, drinking much more water and much less of everything else....getting refreshing sleep, taking time daily to pause and think POSITIVELY about yourself, your surroundings, and how you're going to approach the day......well, then, in my opinion, no matter what else the experts want to say....you've lowered your risks for stroke and heart attack to the lowest levels possible.
You will NEVER be able to elminate the risk nor even control the biggest risk factor of all....AGE! So, it goes....
Well done and keep it up!
Once again, if the present information has been worthwhile and helpful would you consider CLOSING THE QUERY and providing some concluding remarks of POSITIVE feedback with even a 5 STAR rating if deserving? Your moments involved in this activity are very greatly appreciated.
Do not forget to contact me in the future at: www.bit.ly/drdariushsaghafi for additional questions, comments, or concerns having to do with this topic or others.
This query has utilized a total of 83 minutes of professional time in research, review, and synthesis for the purpose of formulating a return statement.
Congratulations on making those DIFFICULT changes
Detailed Answer:
You deserve a lot of credit in making all of those changes in favor of improving your health. And thank you for the additional information which could be of some relevance.
Honestly, even though you were diagnosed with diabetes which we know can still have associated consequence of neuropathy and other issues DESPITE BEST EFFORTS at strict control and management. However, in this case your presentation of the paresthesias in the neck and jaw are much more consistent with a radiculopathy compared to a neuropathy. And so, even though the presence of your DM diagnosis is important and the metabolic importance of the indices you mention cannot be ignored in terms of cholesterol fractions and lipids I do not think they are impacting or causing the stated symptoms.
As far as being concerned over stroke. I understand your concerns over wanting to get better numbers for your HDL and LDL. Medications are available that perform that job but of course, DIET AND EXERCISE are even a more preferred way of achieving those goals if possible. Ingestion of substances high in Omega 3 fatty acids is probably my best line of suggestion when it comes to improving your HDL and lowering your LDL. I recently read some studies looking at things such as TURMERIC, ALPHA LIPOIC ACID, and a few other strains of plants, spices, etc. While none of those substances will harm you if taken in reasonable amounts or doses....I can't absolutely stand behind them since the studies were not actually double blinded and compared to known standards and controls.
Your risk for stroke will be lowest if you avoid or stop smoking, control diabetes, control hypertension, become cardiovascularly conditioned at a good body weight. Straight out numbers having to do with TOTAL CHOLESTEROL and even some of the fractions that have been commonplace to talk about for decades are starting to be questioned in terms of absolute importance or prognostic values. More and more nutritionists are taking closer looks and asking their patients to become more in tune with the FATTY ACID or LIPID content of food and beverage (milk shakes, smoothies, etc.). And so, perhaps the era of CHOLESTEROLMANIA may be turning a corner...I don't know....just something I'll throw out there for consideration.
I think if you make the changes STICK that you've been able to at least implement for the past 7-8 months and fine tune your diet and exercise to become more healthful in terms of increasing your fresh fruit and vegetable portions daily, MORE SALADS, good proteins, limiting fatty acids and lipids overall in the diet, drinking much more water and much less of everything else....getting refreshing sleep, taking time daily to pause and think POSITIVELY about yourself, your surroundings, and how you're going to approach the day......well, then, in my opinion, no matter what else the experts want to say....you've lowered your risks for stroke and heart attack to the lowest levels possible.
You will NEVER be able to elminate the risk nor even control the biggest risk factor of all....AGE! So, it goes....
Well done and keep it up!
Once again, if the present information has been worthwhile and helpful would you consider CLOSING THE QUERY and providing some concluding remarks of POSITIVE feedback with even a 5 STAR rating if deserving? Your moments involved in this activity are very greatly appreciated.
Do not forget to contact me in the future at: www.bit.ly/drdariushsaghafi for additional questions, comments, or concerns having to do with this topic or others.
This query has utilized a total of 83 minutes of professional time in research, review, and synthesis for the purpose of formulating a return statement.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Brief Answer:
Congratulations on making those DIFFICULT changes
Detailed Answer:
You deserve a lot of credit in making all of those changes in favor of improving your health. And thank you for the additional information which could be of some relevance.
Honestly, even though you were diagnosed with diabetes which we know can still have associated consequence of neuropathy and other issues DESPITE BEST EFFORTS at strict control and management. However, in this case your presentation of the paresthesias in the neck and jaw are much more consistent with a radiculopathy compared to a neuropathy. And so, even though the presence of your DM diagnosis is important and the metabolic importance of the indices you mention cannot be ignored in terms of cholesterol fractions and lipids I do not think they are impacting or causing the stated symptoms.
As far as being concerned over stroke. I understand your concerns over wanting to get better numbers for your HDL and LDL. Medications are available that perform that job but of course, DIET AND EXERCISE are even a more preferred way of achieving those goals if possible. Ingestion of substances high in Omega 3 fatty acids is probably my best line of suggestion when it comes to improving your HDL and lowering your LDL. I recently read some studies looking at things such as TURMERIC, ALPHA LIPOIC ACID, and a few other strains of plants, spices, etc. While none of those substances will harm you if taken in reasonable amounts or doses....I can't absolutely stand behind them since the studies were not actually double blinded and compared to known standards and controls.
Your risk for stroke will be lowest if you avoid or stop smoking, control diabetes, control hypertension, become cardiovascularly conditioned at a good body weight. Straight out numbers having to do with TOTAL CHOLESTEROL and even some of the fractions that have been commonplace to talk about for decades are starting to be questioned in terms of absolute importance or prognostic values. More and more nutritionists are taking closer looks and asking their patients to become more in tune with the FATTY ACID or LIPID content of food and beverage (milk shakes, smoothies, etc.). And so, perhaps the era of CHOLESTEROLMANIA may be turning a corner...I don't know....just something I'll throw out there for consideration.
I think if you make the changes STICK that you've been able to at least implement for the past 7-8 months and fine tune your diet and exercise to become more healthful in terms of increasing your fresh fruit and vegetable portions daily, MORE SALADS, good proteins, limiting fatty acids and lipids overall in the diet, drinking much more water and much less of everything else....getting refreshing sleep, taking time daily to pause and think POSITIVELY about yourself, your surroundings, and how you're going to approach the day......well, then, in my opinion, no matter what else the experts want to say....you've lowered your risks for stroke and heart attack to the lowest levels possible.
You will NEVER be able to elminate the risk nor even control the biggest risk factor of all....AGE! So, it goes....
Well done and keep it up!
Once again, if the present information has been worthwhile and helpful would you consider CLOSING THE QUERY and providing some concluding remarks of POSITIVE feedback with even a 5 STAR rating if deserving? Your moments involved in this activity are very greatly appreciated.
Do not forget to contact me in the future at: www.bit.ly/drdariushsaghafi for additional questions, comments, or concerns having to do with this topic or others.
This query has utilized a total of 83 minutes of professional time in research, review, and synthesis for the purpose of formulating a return statement.
Congratulations on making those DIFFICULT changes
Detailed Answer:
You deserve a lot of credit in making all of those changes in favor of improving your health. And thank you for the additional information which could be of some relevance.
Honestly, even though you were diagnosed with diabetes which we know can still have associated consequence of neuropathy and other issues DESPITE BEST EFFORTS at strict control and management. However, in this case your presentation of the paresthesias in the neck and jaw are much more consistent with a radiculopathy compared to a neuropathy. And so, even though the presence of your DM diagnosis is important and the metabolic importance of the indices you mention cannot be ignored in terms of cholesterol fractions and lipids I do not think they are impacting or causing the stated symptoms.
As far as being concerned over stroke. I understand your concerns over wanting to get better numbers for your HDL and LDL. Medications are available that perform that job but of course, DIET AND EXERCISE are even a more preferred way of achieving those goals if possible. Ingestion of substances high in Omega 3 fatty acids is probably my best line of suggestion when it comes to improving your HDL and lowering your LDL. I recently read some studies looking at things such as TURMERIC, ALPHA LIPOIC ACID, and a few other strains of plants, spices, etc. While none of those substances will harm you if taken in reasonable amounts or doses....I can't absolutely stand behind them since the studies were not actually double blinded and compared to known standards and controls.
Your risk for stroke will be lowest if you avoid or stop smoking, control diabetes, control hypertension, become cardiovascularly conditioned at a good body weight. Straight out numbers having to do with TOTAL CHOLESTEROL and even some of the fractions that have been commonplace to talk about for decades are starting to be questioned in terms of absolute importance or prognostic values. More and more nutritionists are taking closer looks and asking their patients to become more in tune with the FATTY ACID or LIPID content of food and beverage (milk shakes, smoothies, etc.). And so, perhaps the era of CHOLESTEROLMANIA may be turning a corner...I don't know....just something I'll throw out there for consideration.
I think if you make the changes STICK that you've been able to at least implement for the past 7-8 months and fine tune your diet and exercise to become more healthful in terms of increasing your fresh fruit and vegetable portions daily, MORE SALADS, good proteins, limiting fatty acids and lipids overall in the diet, drinking much more water and much less of everything else....getting refreshing sleep, taking time daily to pause and think POSITIVELY about yourself, your surroundings, and how you're going to approach the day......well, then, in my opinion, no matter what else the experts want to say....you've lowered your risks for stroke and heart attack to the lowest levels possible.
You will NEVER be able to elminate the risk nor even control the biggest risk factor of all....AGE! So, it goes....
Well done and keep it up!
Once again, if the present information has been worthwhile and helpful would you consider CLOSING THE QUERY and providing some concluding remarks of POSITIVE feedback with even a 5 STAR rating if deserving? Your moments involved in this activity are very greatly appreciated.
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This query has utilized a total of 83 minutes of professional time in research, review, and synthesis for the purpose of formulating a return statement.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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