[47F] With metallic taste and symptoms post-injury
Patient Description
A 47-year-old female reports feeling very ill with a metallic drainage in the back of her throat following an injury resulting in a black eye and stitches. The metallic taste developed gradually over a few days. She has no history of similar symptoms and has not been around anyone with similar symptoms. The injury caused immediate swelling and bruising around both eyes, with colors ranging from dark purple, blue, black, and a little yellow. She experiences dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches that come and go, nausea, vomiting, and ringing in her ears. There is no confusion or memory problems reported. She has sensitivity to light and noise and a constant runny right nostril. Her medical history includes congestive heart failure diagnosed about a year ago, and she is currently taking Lasix. No known drug allergies. She has a follow-up appointment scheduled after her hospital visit.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on your symptoms and recent injury, here are some possibilities:
-
Post-Traumatic Sinus Issue: The metallic taste and drainage could be related to sinus issues following your injury. Trauma can sometimes lead to sinus infections or other nasal issues.
- Treatment may involve decongestants or antibiotics if an infection is present.
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Concussion: Your dizziness, headaches, and nausea could suggest a mild concussion, especially after a head injury.
- Rest and avoiding strenuous activities are typically recommended. Monitoring symptoms is important.
-
Orbital Fracture: The swelling and bruising around your eyes might indicate a fracture in the bones around your eye.
- Imaging tests like a CT scan are often used to diagnose this. Treatment varies based on severity.
What you can do
- Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest and avoid activities that could worsen your symptoms.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated, especially if you're experiencing drainage or nausea.
- Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share notes with your healthcare provider.
- Follow-Up: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and management.
What you should look out for
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Worsening headaches or confusion
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Clear fluid drainage from your nose or ears
- Any new or worsening symptoms
Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.
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8 mo ago
