Normal MRI, ECG and bloodwork, but severe symptoms: Hyderabad neurologist shares why a 24-year-old techie suffered despite normal test results

A 24-year-old techie was suffering from heart palpitations, hand tremors, breathlessness and an inability to exercise for three months. She underwent medical investigations which required bloodwork, an ECG, an echocardiogram and brain imaging. But doctors found "zero" structural abnormalities. Her symptoms were even dismissed as something that was "all made up". However, Hyderabad-based senior neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar identified the underlying condition.

Taking to X, the doctor explained how severe workplace stress had affected her brain function and why normal medical reports did not mean her symptoms were made up.

24-year-old techie's case

Dr Sudhir Kumar took to X and shared the patient's experience, writing, "My heart & brain feel broken, but every test says I am fine." The 24-year-old had experienced several troubling symptoms for three months, including "headiness & head vibrations", palpitations, shortness of breath and hand tremors or shivering. She was also unable to exercise.


Severe workplace stress had affected her daily functioning and quality of life. She underwent extensive medical investigations, which did not show any result. She shared how she was told that it was all made up and there was nothing wrong with her.

What is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)?

The neurologist diagnosed her with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Explaining the condition, he compared the brain to a computer, where the "software" can malfunction even when the "hardware" remains intact.

In simpler terms, chronic stress disrupted her brain networks and signals without causing any visible structural damage. Hence, her MRI scans and other reports looked normal. The expert further added that FND symptoms are "authentic, involuntary" and linked to disruptions in brain circuits responsible for self-agency and threat processing. They are "not made up" or simulated.

Her recovery process

Dr Sudhir Kumar created a structured treatment plan for her in consultation with a mental health professional. The therapy was focused on stress regulation, reassessing perceived threats and gradually getting back to exercising. The neurologist reported an "excellent response", with "complete symptom resolution". The woman was able to return to work and resume her active lifestyle.