[28F] Experiencing migraines, joint and back pain, and unintentional weight loss

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible conditions that could explain your symptoms:

• Chronic Migraine: Your continuous, right-sided headaches accompanied by light sensitivity, confusion, and sometimes nausea could be indicative of chronic migraines. Chronic migraines are characterized by headaches occurring on 15 or more days per month for at least three months. The exact cause is unknown, but it can be triggered by various factors such as stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes.

  • Treatment typically involves preventive measures (like the Aimovig you're already taking) and pain-relieving medications.

• Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. It can also cause migraines and joint pain. Your history of fibromyalgia could explain your joint pain, back pain, and migraines.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, exercise, stress management measures, and healthy lifestyle habits.

• Endometriosis: This condition involves the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. While it primarily causes pelvic pain and menstrual irregularities, it can sometimes be associated with non-gynecological symptoms like low back pain.

  • Treatment options include pain relievers, hormone therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

• Unintentional weight loss, lightheadedness, and syncope (fainting or passing out) can be symptoms of many different conditions, ranging from metabolic disorders to cardiovascular diseases. It's difficult to pinpoint a specific cause without further testing.

What you can do

It's important to consult with your healthcare provider about your symptoms. They may want to adjust your current medications or suggest new ones to better manage your symptoms. They may also want to order some tests to investigate your unintentional weight loss and other symptoms.

In the meantime, here are some things you can do to manage your symptoms:

1. Keep a symptom diary: Note down when your migraines occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and develop a treatment plan.
2. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet: This is particularly important given your unintentional weight loss.
3. Regular exercise: While it might be difficult due to your pain, regular gentle exercise can help manage symptoms of fibromyalgia and improve overall health.
4. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: These can help manage pain and reduce stress, which can trigger migraines.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• A sudden, severe headache unlike any you've had before
• Headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or difficulty speaking
• A sudden, severe headache after a head injury
• A headache accompanied by shortness of breath

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.