[31F] Experiencing dizziness, headaches, and blurred vision

Patient Description

A 31-year-old female reports experiencing dizziness, headaches, and blurred vision, primarily in the right eye, for several months. The blurred vision occurs in minutes-long episodes multiple times a day and is accompanied by a sensation of eye twitching and pins and needles numbness around the eye socket and down the right side of the face. She has a history of aura migraines with visual disturbances and sensory symptoms, including speech loss and tingling sensations. The patient has noted improvement in symptoms when following a keto diet and experiences anxiety related to the anticipation of headache or migraine episodes. She consumes caffeine but does not use recreational drugs, drink alcohol, or take any medications. There is a family history of migraines, and she suspects a thyroid issue, although she has not been diagnosed with any thyroid condition. No known allergies or adverse reactions to medications have been reported.

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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:

  • Migraine with Aura: This is a type of migraine that includes additional neurological symptoms. Auras are usually visual but can also involve feeling pins and needles. Migraines are often associated with other symptoms like dizziness, blurred vision, and fatigue.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve the symptoms of migraines and prevent future attacks. Lifestyle changes, such as stress management and avoiding triggers, can also help.
  • Anxiety Disorder: Chronic anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. It can also exacerbate symptoms of other conditions, like migraines.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.
  • Thyroid Disease: You mentioned suspecting a thyroid issue. Both hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can cause fatigue and other symptoms. However, they usually don't cause the specific neurological symptoms you're experiencing.

    • Treatment depends on the specific thyroid condition and may involve medication, surgery, or radioactive iodine therapy.

Please remember that these are just possibilities, and you should consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They may refer you to a neurologist or other specialist for further evaluation.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they happen, and anything that seems to make them better or worse. This can help your healthcare provider identify patterns and potential triggers.
  3. Try to manage your stress levels. Stress can exacerbate many of the symptoms you're experiencing. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing can help.
  4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can improve your overall health and potentially reduce your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • A sudden, severe headache, often described as the "worst headache of your life"
  • Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body
  • Sudden vision changes, especially in one eye
  • Any new or worsening symptoms

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 accurate information.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of migraine with aura?

Migraine with aura often includes visual disturbances such as seeing flashes of light or zigzag patterns, as well as sensory symptoms like tingling or numbness. These symptoms typically precede the headache phase of a migraine.


How can anxiety contribute to physical symptoms like headaches and dizziness?

Anxiety can lead to physical symptoms due to the body's stress response, which may include headaches, dizziness, and muscle tension. Chronic anxiety can also heighten the perception of pain and exacerbate existing conditions like migraines.


What are the potential signs of a thyroid disorder?

Thyroid disorders can present with a variety of symptoms. Hyperthyroidism may cause weight loss, increased heart rate, and anxiety, while hypothyroidism can lead to fatigue, weight gain, and depression. However, they typically do not cause neurological symptoms like those described.


How can lifestyle changes help in managing migraine symptoms?

Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, managing stress, staying hydrated, and avoiding known migraine triggers (like certain foods or caffeine) can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.


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