[38F] Experiencing concentration and memory difficulties
Patient Description
A 38-year-old female has been experiencing significant difficulty concentrating and memory issues for the past year. She reports feeling unable to multitask and often forgets simple tasks, such as counting money or remembering conversations. These symptoms occur daily and are accompanied by memory loss, which has been ongoing for about three years. She also experiences occasional blurry vision, numbness and tingling in her hands and feet over the past year, and some muscle weakness.
Her medical history includes syringomyelia, diagnosed at age 18. She is currently taking Tizanadine 4mg as needed, Topiramate 50mg twice daily, Maxalt 10mg as needed, and Suboxone 8-2mg daily. She also takes vitamin B complex and shilajit resin. There have been no recent infections, injuries, or illnesses, and no significant life changes or stressors. There is a family history of ADHD and dementia. She reports no changes in mood, emotional state, or menstrual cycle. No known drug allergies.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Your symptoms could be related to several factors:
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Cognitive and Memory Issues:
- These could be related to your syringomyelia, which can sometimes affect neurological function.
- Medication side effects, particularly from Topiramate, which is known to affect concentration and memory in some people.
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Blurry Vision, Numbness, and Tingling:
- These symptoms might also be linked to syringomyelia, as it can affect nerve function.
- It's important to consider medication effects or other neurological conditions.
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Unifying Diagnosis:
- A comprehensive neurological evaluation might help determine if these symptoms are interconnected, possibly due to changes in your syringomyelia or medication effects.
What you can do
Cognitive and Memory Issues:
- Consult a Neurologist: It's important to discuss these symptoms with a specialist who can evaluate your syringomyelia and medication regimen.
- Medication Review: Talk to your doctor about the possibility of adjusting your medications, especially Topiramate, to see if it helps with concentration and memory.
Blurry Vision, Numbness, and Tingling:
- Regular Monitoring: Keep track of when these symptoms occur and any potential triggers.
- Eye Examination: Consider seeing an eye specialist to rule out any vision-specific issues.
General Tips:
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep to support overall brain health.
- Symptom Journal: Use MDandMe to track your symptoms, which can help your healthcare provider understand your condition better.
What you should look out for
- Worsening Symptoms: If you notice an increase in severity or frequency of symptoms, seek medical attention.
- New Symptoms: Be alert for any new symptoms like severe headaches, changes in coordination, or significant mood changes.
- Medication Side Effects: Report any concerns about your medications to your healthcare provider promptly.
Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.
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3 mo ago