[57F] Experiencing severe headache, eye pain, and hypertension

Patient Description

A 57-year-old female presents with a severe headache and eye pain that has persisted for 8 hours, and has been occurring intermittently for years. The pain is described as a dull ache in the front of the head, behind the eyes, and is somewhat alleviated by ice. The patient also experiences dizziness, weakness, and shortness of breath, rating the latter as 6 out of 10 in severity. These symptoms have been present for a few years. The patient has extremely high blood pressure readings, such as 200/110 and 161/90 mmHg, and believes that the headaches and eye pain are related to this condition. There is a self-suspected history of lupus and Sjogren's syndrome, which the patient attributes to kidney, liver, heart, and brain health issues, as well as the high blood pressure. The patient has not been formally diagnosed with these conditions due to financial constraints and is not currently on any medication. No known drug allergies are reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Hypertension: Your reported blood pressure readings are quite high. Hypertension can cause headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, and nausea. It can also cause damage to the blood vessels in your eyes, which may be contributing to your eye pain.

    • Treatment for hypertension often involves lifestyle changes and medication. It's important to regularly monitor your blood pressure.
  • Migraines: Migraines are a type of headache characterized by a throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head. They can cause nausea and sensitivity to light and sound, and can last for hours to days.

    • Treatment for migraines often involves pain-relieving medications and preventive medications.
  • Autoimmune diseases (Lupus and Sjogren's Syndrome): These conditions can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, and dry eyes. Lupus can also affect the kidneys and potentially cause high blood pressure.

    • Treatment for these conditions often involves managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups.
  • Anxiety: Chronic stress and anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, and nausea.

    • Treatment for anxiety often involves psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Please note that these are potential diagnoses based on the symptoms you've reported. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

What you can do

  1. Monitor your blood pressure regularly: If you have a home blood pressure monitor, use it to keep track of your blood pressure. If it remains high, seek medical attention.

  2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco can help manage hypertension and improve overall health.

  3. Manage stress: Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help manage stress and potentially alleviate some of your symptoms.

  4. Stay hydrated and rest: These can help manage headaches and fatigue.

  5. Seek medical attention: While it's understandable that financial constraints can make this difficult, it's important to seek professional medical help, especially given your high blood pressure readings and the severity and duration of your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • A severe headache or a headache that comes on suddenly
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Loss of balance or coordination
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fainting

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


Can high blood pressure cause headaches and eye pain?

Yes, high blood pressure can cause headaches and eye pain. It can lead to increased pressure in the blood vessels, which may result in headaches and damage to the blood vessels in the eyes, causing pain.


What are the common symptoms of lupus and Sjogren's syndrome?

Common symptoms of lupus include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and fever. Sjogren's syndrome often causes dry eyes and mouth, fatigue, and joint pain. Both conditions can have systemic effects on organs like the kidneys and heart.


How can migraines be distinguished from other types of headaches?

Migraines are typically characterized by a throbbing or pulsating pain, often on one side of the head, and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. They can last from a few hours to several days, distinguishing them from tension or cluster headaches.


What lifestyle changes can help manage high blood pressure?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage high blood pressure include regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet low in salt and rich in fruits and vegetables, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking.


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