[58M] Experiencing new onset headaches with dizziness and high blood pressure

Patient Description

A 58-year-old male presents with a new onset of throbbing, sharp, and sometimes dull headaches that are located on the sides and behind the eyes. These headaches began 2 days ago and are exacerbated by light, TV, and computer use. They last approximately 30 minutes before relief is found with Tylenol. The patient also reports feelings of faintness, especially when blood pressure readings were elevated (169/125 mmHg initially, then 163/101 mmHg). The patient is on a regimen of multiple medications for chronic conditions, including high blood pressure, bipolar disorder, and prostate cancer, but has not changed these medications recently. The patient has been taking over-the-counter Nervive for 23 days but discontinued it due to concerns about potential interactions with prescribed medications. The patient also reports taking Zyrtec for a runny nose, has allergies to penicillin and latex, and takes additional supplements including a multivitamin, royal jelly, eggshell membrane, and a calcium supplement. There is no history of headaches or dizziness prior to this event, and the patient denies any chest pain, shortness of breath, changes in vision, difficulty speaking, confusion, or weakness. The patient is seeking advice on whether the OTC Nervive could interact with his current medications.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

Hypertensive Crisis: Your blood pressure readings are significantly higher than the normal range (120/80 mmHg). Hypertensive crisis, which is when blood pressure readings exceed 180/120 mmHg, can cause headaches, dizziness, and fainting. It's a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Treatment typically involves medications to lower blood pressure and monitoring in a hospital setting.
Medication Side Effects or Interactions: Some of the medications you're taking, such as Seroquel and Risperidone, can cause headaches and dizziness. Additionally, the Nervive you were taking could potentially interact with your other medications, leading to increased side effects.
- Treatment would involve reviewing your medications with your doctor and potentially making adjustments.
Migraine: Migraines are severe headaches that can cause throbbing pain, sensitivity to light, and dizziness. However, your high blood pressure and the sudden onset of your symptoms make this less likely.
- Treatment for migraines often involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.

What you can do

Seek immediate medical attention: Your high blood pressure readings are a cause for concern and could indicate a hypertensive crisis, which requires immediate medical attention.
Review your medications: Once your blood pressure is under control, discuss your medications with your doctor. They can review potential side effects and interactions, and make adjustments as necessary.
Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your headaches and any other symptoms you're experiencing. This information can help your doctor determine the cause and best treatment.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Severe headache
Seizures
Unresponsiveness or difficulty waking up
Slurred speech or difficulty understanding speech
Vision changes
Weakness or numbness on one side of your body

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. You should seek care from a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

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[58M] Experiencing new onset headaches with dizziness and high blood pressure

What might be happening

What you can do

What you should look out for

Experiencing symptoms?