When Fans Made Her Tremble: Doctor Links Strange Symptoms to Common Deficiencies

In a rare clinical presentation, a 40-year-old woman reported feeling vibrations in various body parts near electrical appliances such as fans, washing machines, or even cars. She had been experiencing these symptoms for the past six months. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, Neurologist at Apollo Hospital, popularly known as the Hyderabad doctor, recently shared the case on his X (formerly Twitter) account. He mentioned that the woman also had trouble sleeping whenever a fan was switched on, even in nearby rooms.

She consulted numerous doctors and was prescribed several medications, but nothing seemed to help. Her symptoms were often brushed off during consultations, leaving her severely distressed and disappointed.

Connecting the Dots

Dr. Kumar carefully reviewed her case, went through her history, and finally identified a common deficiency—along with stress and anxiety—as the main culprit. Her symptoms were indicative of Peripheral Neuropathy (nerve involvement in hands and feet) and Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). Blood tests were advised, and the results revealed deficiencies of Vitamin B12 and Iron, which were likely the underlying causes of Peripheral Neuropathy and RLS, respectively.

Can a nutritional deficiency cause such symptoms?

Vitamin B12 is a crucial nutrient for the formation of the myelin sheath, a protective covering that helps nerves send signals effectively. Deficiency of this vitamin can lead to impaired function of nerves, causing them to misfire due to lack of proper covering. This can result in symptoms like numbness, tingling, or vibrations, and sometimes loss of sensations can also occur. Ultimately, it leads to peripheral neuropathy, which is likely the case in this woman’s condition. ^[1]

Similarly, iron deficiency plays a significant role in the development of Restless Leg Syndrome—an overwhelming urge to move the legs. It disrupts the brain’s dopamine system, which helps control movement, leading to bizarre sensations like crawling, creeping, or even electrical-like feelings. ^[2]

RLS is often found in combination with Peripheral Neuropathy.

Revisiting her unusual symptoms

Her main symptom—the perception of vibration or internal tremor, a feeling of movement and shaking within the body—is not unusual, according to the doctor. It is considered a functional symptom, often amplified by stress, anxiety, or hyper-awareness of bodily sensations. In her case, the presence of appliances may have acted as psychological triggers rather than the actual cause of vibration.

As part of her treatment, she was prescribed supplements of Vitamin B12 and Iron, along with reassurance that her condition was not a serious neurological disorder—a much-needed support to calm her anxiety.

Dr. Sudhir mentioned in his post that he would continue updating her case once she returns for follow-up.

Why this case matters

Something as simple as a nutritional deficiency can lead to major health issues. In a country where such deficiencies are so common, it’s important to get regular health checkups and reviews done. Any kind of persistent symptom, no matter how unusual, should never be overlooked.

References:

1. Badar, Ahmed. “Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Vitamin B12 Deficiency: An Autobiographical Case Report.” Cureus, January 21, 2022. Accessed May 25, 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8858590/ 

2. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Restless Leg Syndrome” Mayo Clinic, February 25, 2025. Accessed May 25, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/restless-legs-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20377168 

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Pooja Bansal/MSM/SE)