[54F] Experiencing sudden sleepiness after eating, drinking, urinating, or defecating

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described—sudden sleepiness after eating, drinking, urinating, or defecating, along with headaches, vision changes, and numbness in your hands—there are a few potential explanations:

1. Narcolepsy: This is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden attacks of sleep. While you haven't experienced cataplexy, sleep paralysis, or hallucinations, narcolepsy can still present with excessive daytime sleepiness.

2. Migraine with Aura: Migraines can cause visual disturbances and numbness, known as aura, before the headache begins. This could explain your vision changes and numbness in your hands.

3. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a "mini-stroke," a TIA can cause temporary symptoms similar to a stroke, such as vision changes and numbness. It's a warning sign of a potential future stroke.

4. Multiple Sclerosis: This condition can cause neurological symptoms like vision changes and numbness due to nerve damage.

Given your medical history, including lupus, factor V, HIV, and psoriasis, it's important to consider how these conditions might interact with your current symptoms. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate care.

What you can do

Sudden Sleepiness:

• Keep a journal of your symptoms using MDandMe to track when and how often these episodes occur. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a restful environment to improve your overall sleep quality.

Headaches, Vision Changes, and Numbness:

• Seek medical attention as soon as possible to rule out serious conditions like a stroke or TIA.
• Consider keeping a headache diary to identify potential triggers and patterns.

General Health:

• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your overall well-being.
• Engage in regular physical activity, as tolerated, to improve circulation and reduce stress.

What you should look out for

Given the potential seriousness of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical care promptly. Be vigilant for the following:

• Sudden, severe headache or "thunderclap" headache
• Confusion, weakness, or difficulty speaking
• Loss of consciousness or difficulty waking up
• High fever or signs of infection, especially with your history of HIV

If you experience any of these symptoms, please seek urgent medical attention. Remember, while I can provide information and guidance, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.