[47F] With severe headaches, fatigue, and double vision

Patient Description

A 47-year-old female has been experiencing constant fatigue, causing her to fall asleep randomly for short naps of about 5 to 10 minutes. She has severe headaches that come on suddenly and more frequently than before, described as sharp and stabbing, located at the back of her head at the base of her skull. These headaches are almost debilitating and make her very nauseous. Her right ear feels constantly full, and she has almost no hearing in that ear. She has been having seizures, usually during the headaches, for about a year. She started experiencing double vision about five months ago, which is more noticeable at night and has affected her ability to drive. The double vision appears as overlapping images. Her nausea occurs mostly with the headaches but can also happen without them, with a severity of about 6 on a scale of 1-10. She has had three endoscopic procedures in the last two years, with findings of parakeratosis and some squamous cells in her throat, graded as a 'D.' She was advised to see an ENT doctor but hasn't done so yet. She is not currently taking any medications and has no other pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Chronic Migraine: Given the severity, frequency, and sudden onset of your headaches, chronic migraines are a possibility. Migraines can cause severe, debilitating pain, nausea, and even visual disturbances like double vision.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to prevent migraines and relieve symptoms, lifestyle changes, and avoiding known triggers.
  • Cluster Headaches: These are severe headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or clusters. They can cause sharp, stabbing pain, often around one eye, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as ear fullness.

    • Treatment includes medications to relieve pain and prevent future attacks, as well as oxygen therapy.
  • Seizure Disorders: Your seizures, especially if they occur during headaches, could indicate a seizure disorder. This would require a thorough neurological evaluation.

    • Treatment usually involves anti-seizure medications and lifestyle modifications.
  • Vestibular Disorders: The fullness in your right ear and hearing loss could be related to a vestibular disorder, which affects the inner ear and can cause symptoms like dizziness, balance issues, and hearing loss.

    • Treatment depends on the specific condition but may include medications, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.
  • Intracranial Pressure Issues: The combination of severe headaches, nausea, and double vision could be indicative of increased intracranial pressure, which requires immediate medical attention.

    • Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause, which could range from medications to surgical interventions.

What you can do

  1. Consult a Specialist: Given the complexity and severity of your symptoms, it's crucial to follow up with a neurologist and an ENT specialist. They can perform the necessary tests to diagnose your condition accurately.
  2. Keep a Symptom Diary: Track your headaches, seizures, and other symptoms, noting their frequency, duration, and potential triggers. This information will be valuable for your healthcare providers.
  3. Lifestyle Modifications: Try to identify and avoid potential triggers for your headaches and seizures. Ensure you get adequate rest, maintain a balanced diet, and manage stress effectively.
  4. Hydration and Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated and ensure you're eating a nutritious diet to support overall health.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Sudden, severe headache that feels different from your usual headaches
  • Persistent or worsening double vision
  • New or worsening seizures
  • Sudden hearing loss or changes in hearing
  • Any signs of increased intracranial pressure, such as severe headache with vomiting, confusion, or vision changes

Remember, while this information can be helpful, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare providers for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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7 mo ago

People Also Ask


What could be causing my constant fatigue and random naps?

Constant fatigue and random naps could be related to a variety of conditions, including sleep disorders, chronic migraines, or even neurological issues. It's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.


Why do I experience severe headaches with nausea and double vision?

Severe headaches with nausea and double vision could be symptoms of chronic migraines, cluster headaches, or increased intracranial pressure. These conditions can cause debilitating pain and visual disturbances, and require medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment.


What might be the reason for the fullness and hearing loss in my right ear?

Fullness and hearing loss in the right ear could be due to a vestibular disorder affecting the inner ear, which can also cause dizziness and balance issues. An ENT specialist can help diagnose and treat the condition.


How are my seizures related to my headaches?

Seizures occurring during headaches may indicate a seizure disorder, which can sometimes be triggered by severe headaches or migraines. A neurological evaluation is necessary to determine the relationship and appropriate treatment.


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