[34F] Experiencing chronic neurological and pain symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are several possible conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

• Chronic Migraine: This condition is characterized by headaches that occur on 15 or more days per month for at least three months. The headaches have the features of migraine headache on at least 8 days per month. The symptoms you've described, including one-sided headache, sensitivity to touch on the scalp, and seeing flashing lights, are common in migraines. The medications you're taking (Emgality and Rizatriptan) are also commonly used to treat migraines.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medications to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines, as well as lifestyle changes to avoid migraine triggers.

• Meniere's Disease: This is a disorder of the inner ear that can lead to dizzy spells (vertigo) and hearing loss. In most cases, Meniere's disease affects only one ear. It can cause severe dizziness, a roaring sound in your ears (tinnitus), hearing loss that comes and goes, and the feeling of ear pressure or pain. It usually affects just one ear and is a common cause of hearing loss.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery to manage symptoms.

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ): These are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. It can also cause referred pain in the ear, face, and neck, as well as headaches and tinnitus.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery to manage symptoms.

• Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: These are inflammations caused by a viral infection that result in dizziness and loss of balance. It's often associated with an upper respiratory infection, such as the flu. Symptoms can include dizziness, loss of balance, and tinnitus.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to control dizziness and inflammation, as well as physical therapy to help improve balance.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms based on the information you've provided, but they are not definitive diagnoses. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

1. Continue taking your prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
2. Try to identify any triggers for your symptoms, such as certain foods, stress, lack of sleep, etc., and avoid them if possible.
3. Practice good sleep hygiene, which includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding caffeine and electronic screens before bedtime.
4. Consider physical therapy, which can help manage symptoms of vertigo and improve balance.
5. If you smoke, consider quitting, as smoking can worsen symptoms of vertigo and tinnitus.

What you should look out for

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

• A sudden, severe headache
• Sudden hearing loss
• Symptoms that are progressively worsening
• Symptoms that are not improving with treatment
• New symptoms, such as weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or difficulty walking.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.