[21F] With eye discomfort and transient neck pain post-cold

Patient Description

A 21-year-old female reports experiencing a weird feeling in her eye for about a week, which began suddenly after recovering from a cold. The eye feels watery at times but shows no redness or significant discharge. The patient has not noticed any real changes in vision, though there is some concern due to worry. The sensation in the eye is intermittent throughout the day. Additionally, the patient has experienced brief, shocking neck and shoulder pain while working, occurring twice, with a severity of about 5 out of 10. There have been no recent injuries or accidents. Slight headaches are noted, but there is no sensitivity to light, although wearing sunglasses indoors seemed to provide some relief. The patient spends a significant amount of time on screens, which may contribute to symptoms, but some improvement is noted with reduced screen time. The patient has seasonal allergies but no other pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses and is not currently taking any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Post-Viral Syndrome: After recovering from a cold, it's not uncommon to experience lingering symptoms such as eye discomfort or mild headaches. This can be due to residual inflammation or irritation from the virus.

    • Treatment typically involves supportive care, such as rest and hydration, and symptoms usually resolve on their own over time.

  • Digital Eye Strain: Given your frequent screen use, digital eye strain could be contributing to the weird feeling in your eye. This condition can cause eye discomfort, headaches, and watery eyes due to prolonged screen time.

    • Treatment involves taking regular breaks from screens, using artificial tears, and ensuring proper lighting and screen settings.

  • Muscle Tension or Strain: The quick, shocking pain in your neck and shoulder could be due to muscle tension or strain, possibly from posture or repetitive activities.

    • Treatment includes stretching, applying heat or cold packs, and practicing good posture.

What you can do

While these symptoms are not typically life-threatening, it's important to monitor them and take steps to alleviate discomfort:

  1. Reduce Screen Time: Try to take regular breaks from screens using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
  2. Use Artificial Tears: Continue using lubricating eye drops to help with eye discomfort.
  3. Practice Good Posture: Ensure your workspace is ergonomically set up to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders.
  4. Stay Hydrated and Rested: Make sure you're drinking plenty of water and getting enough rest to support your recovery.
  5. Track Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share insights with your healthcare provider if needed.

What you should look out for

While your symptoms are likely not serious, you should seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Significant changes in vision or persistent eye pain
  • Severe or worsening headaches
  • Persistent or worsening neck and shoulder pain
  • Any new or concerning symptoms

Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and personalized advice.

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1 mo ago

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People Also Ask

What is digital eye strain and how can it be managed?

Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a condition resulting from prolonged screen use. It can cause symptoms like eye discomfort, headaches, and watery eyes. Management includes taking regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule, using artificial tears, and ensuring proper lighting and screen settings.

Can a cold cause lingering eye discomfort or headaches?

Yes, after recovering from a cold, it's common to experience lingering symptoms such as eye discomfort or mild headaches. This can be due to residual inflammation or irritation from the virus, often referred to as post-viral syndrome. These symptoms typically resolve on their own with rest and hydration.

What might cause sudden neck and shoulder pain without injury?

Sudden neck and shoulder pain without injury could be due to muscle tension or strain, often related to posture or repetitive activities. It can be managed with stretching, applying heat or cold packs, and practicing good posture.

How can I reduce the impact of screen time on my eyes?

To reduce the impact of screen time on your eyes, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Additionally, use artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated, adjust your screen settings for optimal lighting, and take regular breaks to rest your eyes.

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