[25M] Experiencing vision abnormalities and body twitches post-Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Patient Description

A 25-year-old male has been experiencing significant vision changes and body twitches for the past two years, which began after being diagnosed with Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The vision changes include an initial period of clear vision upon waking, which lasts for about 30 minutes, followed by the onset of floaters, flashes, and random colors that persist throughout the day. These symptoms affect both eyes. Additionally, the patient reports sporadic body twitches that occur throughout the day, with an increase in frequency during episodes of anxiety. Specifically, sneezing triggers eyelid twitching. The patient also experiences double vision when tired and has reported severe eye pain. There is no current fever, and the patient has not experienced any severe headaches, neurological deficits, or sudden loss of vision. The patient does not have any known allergies, adverse reactions to medications, or any pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses related to these symptoms. No medications are currently being taken.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS): This can occur after treatment for a tick-borne disease like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. It's characterized by persistent symptoms, such as muscle twitching and vision changes. However, the exact cause of PTLDS is not yet known.
- There is no specific treatment for PTLDS. The symptoms are usually managed individually.
Anxiety: Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including muscle twitching. It's possible that your anxiety is contributing to your symptoms.
- Treatment for anxiety can include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, and lifestyle changes.
Floaters: Floaters are small specks or clouds moving in your field of vision. They are usually not harmful and are a common part of the aging process. However, a sudden increase in floaters can sometimes indicate a more serious eye condition, such as a retinal detachment.
- Treatment for floaters is usually not necessary unless they significantly interfere with vision.
Migraine: Migraines can cause visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or blind spots, and can be accompanied by severe headaches.
- Treatment for migraines can include medication to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to help manage your symptoms:

Try to manage your anxiety. This could include techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and regular exercise.
Make sure you're getting enough sleep. Fatigue can worsen symptoms of anxiety and can also contribute to visual disturbances.
Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet. This can help to manage your symptoms and improve your overall health.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

If you notice a sudden increase in floaters, especially if accompanied by flashes of light or loss of peripheral vision.
If you experience a sudden, severe headache.
If you experience sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body, difficulty speaking, or confusion. These could be signs of a stroke.

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important that you consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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9 mo ago

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