[44F] With persistent headaches and skin pustules
Patient Description
A 44-year-old female reports experiencing persistent headaches for the past 2-3 weeks, described as aching behind the left eye, with a constant presence from waking to sleeping. The headache intensity is rated as 7/10 and is exacerbated by head movement, stress, light, and loud noises. Temporary relief is achieved with Tylenol, Aleve, and Rizatriptan, lasting only about 2 hours. The patient also reports confusion regarding task prioritization during headaches. Additionally, the patient has been dealing with painful pustules on the buttocks, legs, and arms since June/July. These pustules resemble boils or lesions. Around the onset of the headaches, the patient experienced an episode of stomach pain, diarrhea, followed by sweats and chills for two days. No recent infections or exposure to new environments or substances are noted.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Your symptoms could be related to a few different issues:
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Chronic Headaches:
- The persistent headaches, especially with pressure behind the eye, could be related to tension headaches or migraines. Migraines can cause sensitivity to light and sound and may be accompanied by nausea or confusion.
- Sinus issues could also cause pressure and headaches, especially if you feel it when moving your head.
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Skin Pustules:
- The pustules on your legs, buttocks, and arms might be related to a skin infection like folliculitis or boils, which can be painful and persistent.
- An underlying condition affecting your immune system could also be contributing to both the skin issues and headaches.
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Systemic Symptoms:
- The episode of stomach pain, diarrhea, sweats, and chills could suggest an infection or inflammatory process.
What you can do
Headaches:
- Continue using over-the-counter pain relief like Tylenol or Aleve, but be cautious about overuse.
- Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to manage stress.
- Ensure you are staying hydrated and getting enough rest.
Skin Pustules:
- Keep the affected areas clean and dry.
- Avoid picking or squeezing the pustules to prevent infection.
- Consider using warm compresses to alleviate pain and promote drainage.
General Health:
- Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or patterns using a journal like MDandMe.
- Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated to support your immune system.
What you should look out for
- If your headaches worsen or you experience new symptoms like vision changes, seek medical attention.
- If the skin pustules become more painful, red, or swollen, or if you develop a fever, consult a healthcare provider.
- Persistent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.
Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.
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2 mo ago