[47F] Experiencing a range of neurological and vascular symptoms post-concussion

Patient Description

A 47-year-old female has been experiencing a constellation of symptoms including severe headaches, blurred vision, memory issues, and numbness in various parts of the body for the past few years, following multiple concussions. The patient describes two types of headaches: a moderate pressure headache and a severe stabbing pain, which is often preceded by numbness in the back of the head, loud ringing in the ears, visual disturbances, and numbness in the mouth. The patient also reports constant fatigue, which began after her most recent concussion approximately 2.5 years ago. Additionally, she experiences constant thirst despite adequate fluid intake and has had difficulties with venipuncture, with technicians struggling to find a vein and to draw blood. The patient has a long-standing diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and was diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome two years ago. Currently, she is not on any medication as her headache medication was discontinued over 1.5 years ago.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible unifying diagnoses include:

  • Post-Concussion Syndrome: This condition can occur after a concussion and can include a variety of symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and problems with concentration and memory. The numbness and tingling you're experiencing could be related to nerve damage from your concussions.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches, and sometimes cognitive therapy.
  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: This is a group of disorders that affect connective tissues, which are tissues that support the skin, bones, blood vessels, and other organs. Symptoms can include overly flexible joints, stretchy skin, and abnormal scar formation. It's possible that some of your symptoms could be related to this condition.

    • Treatment typically involves managing symptoms and preventing complications.
  • Chronic Dehydration: Constant thirst and feeling dehydrated despite drinking lots of water could indicate chronic dehydration. This can also cause dry mouth and fatigue.

    • Treatment involves rehydration, drinking plenty of fluids, and addressing the underlying cause.
  • Vision Problems: Your blurred vision and visual disturbances could be due to a variety of conditions, including migraines, eye strain, or more serious conditions like glaucoma. You mentioned an upcoming eye exam, which should provide more information.

    • Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms or figure out what's going on:

  1. Rest and avoid activities that make your symptoms worse, especially activities that could lead to another concussion.
  2. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. If you're feeling constantly thirsty despite drinking lots of water, try adding a pinch of salt to your water or drinking a rehydration solution.
  3. For your vision problems, avoid straining your eyes and make sure to attend your upcoming eye exam.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

  • If your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms
  • If your headaches become more frequent or severe
  • If you notice any sudden changes in your vision or memory

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I am an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

8 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is post-concussion syndrome and how is it treated?

Post-concussion syndrome is a condition that can occur after a concussion, characterized by symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Treatment typically involves rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and sometimes cognitive therapy.


How does Ehlers-Danlos syndrome affect the body?

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of disorders affecting connective tissues, leading to symptoms like overly flexible joints, stretchy skin, and abnormal scar formation. Management focuses on symptom relief and preventing complications.


Why might someone feel constantly thirsty despite drinking enough water?

Constant thirst despite adequate fluid intake could indicate chronic dehydration, which might be due to an underlying condition affecting fluid balance. Treatment involves rehydration and addressing the root cause.


What could cause blurred vision and visual disturbances?

Blurred vision and visual disturbances can result from various conditions, including migraines, eye strain, or more serious issues like glaucoma. An eye exam can help determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback