[28F] Experiencing right-sided body ache and vision issues

Patient Description

A 28-year-old female presents with a sudden onset of dull body ache primarily on the right side, rated 7 out of 10 in severity, persisting for five days. The ache is described as dull with occasional sharp pains and occurs randomly. The patient also reports a pressurized headache and vision issues for the past two days, accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound. There is occasional numbness on the right side of the body, but no difficulty speaking, changes in coordination, or balance issues. The patient denies any recent injuries, changes in activity levels, stress, new medications, or family history of neurological conditions. No nausea or vomiting is associated with the headache. The patient has no known allergies or current medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations:

  • Migraine with Aura: Migraines can cause severe headaches, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances known as auras. They can also cause numbness or tingling on one side of the body. Migraines can be triggered by stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks. Lifestyle changes, such as stress management and avoiding known triggers, can also help.

  • Tension Headache: These are common and can cause a dull, aching head pain and pressure. They can be associated with muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.

    • Treatment often includes over-the-counter pain relievers, relaxation techniques, and stress management.

  • Neurological Conditions: While less common, conditions such as multiple sclerosis or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) can cause similar symptoms, including numbness and visual disturbances.

    • Diagnosis would require a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, including imaging studies and possibly a referral to a neurologist.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis, here are some steps you can take in the meantime:

  1. Keep a Symptom Journal: Use MDandMe to track your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.
  2. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help reduce stress, which can be a trigger for migraines and tension headaches.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you're drinking enough water throughout the day, as dehydration can contribute to headaches.
  4. Rest in a Dark, Quiet Room: If you're experiencing sensitivity to light and sound, resting in a dark, quiet room may help alleviate your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Sudden, severe headache unlike any you've had before
  • Persistent numbness or weakness on one side of your body
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Changes in coordination or balance
  • Any new or worsening symptoms

Remember, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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1 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of a migraine with aura?

Common symptoms of a migraine with aura include severe headache, visual disturbances (such as seeing flashes of light or blind spots), sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes numbness or tingling on one side of the body.

How can tension headaches be distinguished from migraines?

Tension headaches typically cause a dull, aching head pain and a sensation of pressure around the forehead or back of the head and neck. They are often associated with muscle tension. Migraines, on the other hand, are usually more severe, can be accompanied by nausea, and often include visual disturbances or auras.

What lifestyle changes can help manage migraines?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage migraines include identifying and avoiding known triggers (such as certain foods or stress), maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying hydrated, practicing stress management techniques like yoga or meditation, and ensuring a balanced diet.

When should I seek medical attention for headache symptoms?

You should seek medical attention if you experience a sudden, severe headache unlike any you've had before, persistent numbness or weakness on one side of your body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, changes in coordination or balance, or any new or worsening symptoms.

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