[38F] Experiencing severe nausea, headache, and other symptoms

Patient Description

A 38-year-old female reports severe constant nausea rated 8/10 in intensity, which started during sleep and has persisted for approximately 4 hours. The nausea is not related to meals. She also experiences a throbbing, consistent headache behind her left eye, rated 9/10 in intensity, which she has experienced before. Accompanying symptoms include moderate shakiness in the torso, numbness in the skin described as a loss of sensation and itchiness lasting for a week, and unusual thirst. The patient does not report any relief from the nausea and has not identified any alleviating factors for her symptoms.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, the following conditions might be considered:

  • Migraine: Migraines are a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. They can be accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. The numbness and tingling you're experiencing could be part of what's known as a migraine aura.

    • Treatment typically involves over-the-counter or prescription medications to relieve pain and prevent future migraines. Lifestyle changes, such as stress management and avoiding certain foods, can also help.
  • Dehydration: Your symptoms of thirst, shakiness, and nausea could be signs of dehydration, which can occur if you're not drinking enough fluids or if you're losing fluids through sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea.

    • Treatment involves rehydrating your body by drinking fluids or, in severe cases, receiving fluids intravenously.
  • Anxiety: Physical symptoms like shakiness, nausea, and numbness can sometimes be caused by anxiety or panic attacks.

    • Treatment often involves a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.

Please note that this is not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms in person.

What you can do

Here are some general suggestions that might help you feel better:

  1. Stay hydrated: Make sure you're drinking enough water, especially if you're feeling thirsty.

  2. Rest: Try to get plenty of sleep and avoid activities that might worsen your headache.

  3. Over-the-counter medication: Non-prescription drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with headache pain.

  4. Relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and other relaxation exercises can help manage symptoms of anxiety.

What you should look out for

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

  • Severe headache that comes on suddenly
  • Headache accompanied by a high fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties
  • Headache after a head injury, especially if the headache gets worse
  • Chronic, progressive headache that's accompanied by other symptoms, such as loss of appetite or weight loss.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a migraine and how can they be managed?

Migraines often present with severe, throbbing headaches, usually on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Management includes medications to relieve pain and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle changes like stress management and avoiding known triggers.


How can dehydration cause symptoms like nausea and shakiness?

Dehydration can lead to symptoms like nausea and shakiness because the body lacks sufficient fluids to function properly, affecting blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Rehydrating by drinking fluids or receiving intravenous fluids in severe cases can alleviate these symptoms.


Can anxiety cause physical symptoms such as numbness and nausea?

Yes, anxiety can manifest physically, causing symptoms such as numbness, tingling, nausea, and shakiness. These symptoms occur due to the body's 'fight or flight' response, which can be managed through therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques.


What are some effective ways to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration?

To stay hydrated, drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot weather or when exercising. Consuming foods with high water content, like fruits and vegetables, and avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol can also help prevent dehydration.


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