[56F] Experiencing cognitive difficulties and various neurological symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, several conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Migraines: These are severe headaches often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. They can cause cognitive difficulties, including trouble with memory and concentration. The fact that you have a history of migraines and that your father also had migraines suggests this could be a possibility.

  • Treatment typically involves medication to relieve symptoms and prevent future migraines. Lifestyle changes, such as stress management and regular exercise, can also help.

• Post-Concussion Syndrome: This condition can occur after a head injury, such as the fall you experienced. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, cognitive difficulties, and changes in vision.

  • Treatment typically involves rest and symptom management. Cognitive therapy may also be beneficial.

• Cervicogenic Headache: This is a type of headache caused by issues in the neck, often due to injury or strain. The pain is usually felt in the back of the head and may be accompanied by neck pain and stiffness.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, medication, and possibly nerve blocks.

• Medication Overuse Headache: This is a type of headache that can occur when pain medication is used too frequently. It's possible that your use of Tylenol could be contributing to your headaches.

  • Treatment involves reducing or stopping the overused medication under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

• Giant Cell Arteritis: This is an inflammation of the arteries in the head and neck. It can cause headaches, jaw pain, vision problems, and cognitive difficulties. It's more common in people over 50.

  • Treatment typically involves high-dose corticosteroids.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also be causing your symptoms.

What you can do

Given the severity and persistence of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. They can perform a physical examination and possibly order tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
2. If you have a neurologist, consider scheduling an appointment with them as well.
3. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This can help your healthcare provider in their assessment.
4. Continue to take your prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
5. Try to rest and avoid activities that worsen your symptoms.

What you should look out for

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

• Sudden, severe headache
• Sudden loss of vision or double vision
• Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body
• Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.