[42F] Experiencing headache, dizziness, light sensitivity, and weakness

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, you're experiencing symptoms that could be related to a few different conditions:

• Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe pain, often on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and dizziness. The exact cause is unknown, but it's often related to changes in the brain and influenced by genetic factors.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers and other medications to manage symptoms, as well as lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers.

• Tension headache: This is a common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching sensation all over the head. It's often described as a feeling of a tight band around the forehead or back of the head and pressure at the temples or back of the head.

  • Treatment usually involves over-the-counter pain relievers and rest.

• Eye strain: This can occur when your eyes get tired from intense use, such as driving long distances or staring at computer screens and other digital devices. Eye strain can cause a variety of symptoms, including sensitivity to light, headache, and dizziness.

  • Treatment typically involves resting your eyes and making changes to your work habits or environment.

What you can do

While you should definitely seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment, here are some things you can do in the meantime:

1. Rest in a dark, quiet room. This can often help with migraines and tension headaches.
2. Apply a warm compress to your forehead or the back of your neck. This can help relieve tension headaches.
3. Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help with the pain.
4. Avoid activities that strain your eyes, like reading, using a computer, or watching TV, especially in low light.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• A sudden, severe headache that's different from past headaches
• Headache with a fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or speaking difficulties
• Headache after a head injury, especially if the headache gets worse
• A chronic headache that's worse after coughing, exertion, straining or a sudden movement
• New headache pain if you're over 50

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 appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.