[44F] Experiencing gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms

Patient Description

A 44-year-old female presents with a 3-day history of an upset stomach characterized by nausea and a constant urge to defecate, although stools are normal. She also reports a constant, dull, sour stomach pain. Additionally, she has been experiencing a headache for a couple of hours, described as a pressure above both ears and around the eyes, rated 5 out of 10 in severity. The patient has blurred vision and dry mouth with a strange taste, both symptoms starting today. She also notes that her cheeks become hot and red, correlating with the worsening of stomach pains. The patient has been feeling fatigued but does not have a fever or chills. She has a history of hypertension and depression since 2012, managed with Atenolol and Wellbutrin XL. No known drug allergies. The patient has been married for 21 years and denies any recent changes in sexual partners or unprotected sex.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Dehydration: This can cause headaches, blurred vision, dry mouth, and fatigue. It can also cause stomach upset and a constant feeling of needing to use the bathroom.

    • Treatment typically involves rehydration with water or oral rehydration solutions.
  • Migraine: This is a type of headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head. It's often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last for hours to days, and the pain can be so severe that it interferes with your daily activities.

    • Treatment typically involves pain relievers and other medications to manage symptoms, as well as lifestyle changes to manage triggers.
  • Side effects of medication: Both Atenolol and Wellbutrin XL can cause headaches, blurred vision, dry mouth, and stomach upset. It's also possible that these medications are interacting with each other in a way that's causing your symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
  • Anxiety or stress: These can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including headaches, blurred vision, dry mouth, stomach upset, and a constant feeling of needing to use the bathroom. They can also cause flushing and fatigue.

    • Treatment typically involves stress management techniques, therapy, and medication if necessary.

What you can do

  1. Ensure you're drinking enough water and staying hydrated. This can help with headaches, blurred vision, dry mouth, and stomach upset.
  2. Rest and try to manage any stress or anxiety you may be experiencing. This can help with headaches, blurred vision, dry mouth, stomach upset, and a constant feeling of needing to use the bathroom.
  3. Consult with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and the medications you're currently taking. They may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication if necessary.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention include:

  • Severe headache or headache that gets progressively worse
  • Sudden or severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Sudden, severe vision changes or loss of vision
  • Confusion or difficulty speaking
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness

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.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


Can dehydration cause symptoms like headaches, blurred vision, and dry mouth?

Yes, dehydration can lead to symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, and dry mouth. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking enough fluids throughout the day.


What are common side effects of Atenolol and Wellbutrin XL?

Common side effects of Atenolol include fatigue, dizziness, and stomach upset, while Wellbutrin XL can cause dry mouth, headaches, and nausea. It's important to discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider.


How can stress or anxiety manifest physically in the body?

Stress or anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including headaches, stomach upset, dry mouth, and a constant urge to use the bathroom. It can also lead to flushing and fatigue.


What are the signs that a headache might be a migraine?

A migraine is often characterized by a severe throbbing or pulsing pain, usually on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. It can last for hours to days and may interfere with daily activities.


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