[40F] Experiencing stinging eyes, headache, and fatigue

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are some possibilities:

• Dry Eye Syndrome: This condition occurs when your tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes, leading to stinging, redness, or a gritty sensation. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, certain medical conditions, and some medications.

  • Treatment typically involves over-the-counter eye drops, prescription eye drops, or lifestyle changes such as taking breaks from looking at screens.

• Chronic Sinusitis: This is a common condition where the spaces inside your nose and head (sinuses) are swollen and inflamed for 3 months or longer, despite treatment attempts. This can lead to drainage down the back of the throat, nasal obstruction or congestion, pain and swelling around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead, and other symptoms such as fatigue.

  • Treatment can involve medications to treat infection and reduce inflammation, nasal irrigation, or in severe cases, surgery.

• Migraines: You have a history of chronic migraines, and it's possible that your headaches are related to this. Migraines can cause moderate to severe headaches that are throbbing or pulsing and are often accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light, noise, or smells.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers.

Please note that these are just possibilities, and it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Try using over-the-counter lubricating eye drops for your stinging eyes.
2. Stay hydrated and use a humidifier in your home to help with your nasal drainage and throat irritation.
3. Continue taking your prescribed medications and follow your doctor's advice for managing your chronic conditions.
4. Keep a symptom diary to track when your symptoms occur, how long they last, and any potential triggers. This can be helpful information to share with your doctor.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe headache or headache that comes on suddenly
• Fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking
• Symptoms that worsen or do not improve with treatment

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.