[28F] Experiencing severe migraines and high abdominal contractions

Patient Description

A 28-year-old female is experiencing severe migraines, rated 9 out of 10, with pain radiating from the back of the neck to the base of the skull, pressure on the left temple and eye, and jaw pain. She also reports high abdominal contractions that are sharp and squeezing, occurring every 5-10 minutes without relief upon eating or drinking. These symptoms are accompanied by lightheadedness, visual disturbances, and weakness. The patient has a history of Hashimoto's thyroid disease, Reynaud's phenomenon, anemia, and a past C-section. She is currently on Levoxyl 137 mcg and has a Mirena IUD. Allergies include gluten, vinegar, bee stings, and spinach. No new medications have been reported.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. It can be accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. Your description of severe headache, pressure on your left temple and eye, and seeing spots or squiggles that throb along with your pulse are typical of a migraine.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve the symptoms of a migraine attack and prevent future attacks.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause symptoms like high abdominal contractions.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In some cases, prescription medications or surgery might be needed.
  • Hashimoto's disease: This is an autoimmune disorder that can cause chronic fatigue and weakness. Given your medical history of Hashimoto's disease, it's possible that your current symptoms of fatigue and weakness could be related to this condition.

    • Treatment typically involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine, which you're currently taking.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all possible conditions that could be causing your symptoms. It's also possible that these symptoms could be related to a new or worsening condition.

What you can do

  1. For your migraines, try to rest in a quiet, dark room. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen might help. If these don't provide relief, please see a healthcare provider. They can prescribe stronger medications if needed.

  2. For your high abdominal contractions, try to avoid foods and drinks that trigger your symptoms. This might include fatty or fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol. Also, try to eat smaller meals and avoid eating 2 to 3 hours before bedtime.

  3. For your fatigue and weakness, try to get plenty of sleep and eat a healthy diet. Regular physical activity might also help. If these strategies don't provide relief, please see a healthcare provider. They can check to see if your symptoms might be related to your Hashimoto's disease or another condition.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion or difficulty understanding speech
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Severe or worsening headache
  • Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination

Remember, this advice is intended to be helpful and informative, but it's not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are common triggers for migraines and how can they be managed?

Common triggers for migraines include stress, certain foods and drinks (like caffeine and alcohol), hormonal changes, and lack of sleep. Managing migraines often involves identifying and avoiding these triggers, using over-the-counter pain relievers, and in some cases, prescription medications. Keeping a headache diary can help identify specific triggers.


How can Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) be identified and treated?

GERD can be identified by symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and high abdominal contractions. Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes like avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after eating. Over-the-counter antacids or prescription medications may also be used to reduce stomach acid.


What are the symptoms of Hashimoto's disease and how is it managed?

Symptoms of Hashimoto's disease include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and muscle weakness. It is managed with daily use of synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine to normalize hormone levels. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important to adjust medication as needed.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of anemia?

To manage symptoms of anemia, it is important to consume a diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid. Foods like lean meats, leafy greens, and fortified cereals can help. Additionally, taking iron supplements as prescribed by a healthcare provider and addressing any underlying causes of anemia are crucial.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback