Persistent Discomfort: Common Symptoms and Solutions

Physical discomfort?

1.
This symptom has persisted for several months without a clear cause.
The symptoms include a feeling of pressure in the eyes and a sensation of obstruction in vision, followed by dizziness, headaches, and even nausea.
The first occurrence happened after a flag-raising ceremony, which I initially thought was heat exhaustion.
However, it recurred when I walked from the classroom to the restroom.
I heard from others that it might be due to dehydration, so I increased my water intake, but the symptoms still appear.
What can be done to alleviate these symptoms?
2.
About two to three years ago, I bumped my head while playing outdoors, resulting in a significant swelling.
I applied ice immediately, but now there is still a small bump in that area of my head that is painful when pressed.
It doesn’t bother me when I’m not touching it.
Will this swollen area gradually disappear over time?
3.
The day before yesterday, I was lying in the living room, still waking up, when I choked on a bite of breakfast.
I quickly drank some water, which helped, but shortly after, I felt very uncomfortable.
Eating and drinking caused a sharp pain from my throat to my navel, likely due to an injury to my esophagus.
Additionally, a few days ago, I took a capsule before bed, and the next morning, I felt like something was stuck in my throat, which lasted for two days before resolving.
Could this be related? I hope the doctor can address these concerns.
As a senior preparing for standardized tests, these health issues are hindering my ability to study seriously, and I sincerely seek help.

Xiao Ping, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/07

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello,
1.
The symptoms you are experiencing may be related to your eyes or headaches.
It would be advisable to consult an ophthalmologist to check your intraocular pressure.
If your eyes are normal, it is likely a mild tension-type headache, which is often caused by significant temperature fluctuations in your environment.
Staying hydrated can help, and you might also consider taking precautions against excessive sun exposure or avoiding drastic temperature changes, such as not immediately sitting in air conditioning or drinking cold water right after being in the sun.
2.
The condition you described sounds like a subcutaneous hematoma, which should gradually resolve over time.
3.
The symptoms you described are very similar to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can cause a sensation of heat rising from the abdomen after meals.
There are several ways to manage this: avoid overeating, eat smaller, more frequent meals, steer clear of irritant foods (such as spicy foods, tea, and coffee), refrain from lying down for at least an hour after eating, and avoid prolonged sitting for half an hour after meals.
Following these recommendations may provide some relief.
If symptoms persist, you might consider using antacids or medications for peptic ulcers.
These symptoms are quite common among students, especially during times of stress.
However, there is no need to worry, as these issues can improve.
Wishing you success in your exams!

Reply Date: 2016/08/07

More Info

Understanding persistent discomfort can be quite challenging, especially when symptoms are vague and have been ongoing for several months. Let's break down your concerns and explore potential solutions based on the symptoms you've described.

1. Symptoms of Eye Pressure, Dizziness, and Nausea
The symptoms you are experiencing—pressure in the eyes, dizziness, headaches, and nausea—can be attributed to several potential causes. Given that these symptoms have persisted for months and seem to occur in specific situations (like after physical exertion or when moving from one place to another), it’s important to consider the following possibilities:
- Dehydration: Although you mentioned increasing your water intake, it’s crucial to ensure you are adequately hydrated, especially if you are active. Dehydration can lead to dizziness and headaches.

- Visual Strain: If you are spending a lot of time looking at screens or in environments with poor lighting, this could lead to eye strain, which can cause discomfort and headaches.

- Vestibular Issues: Dizziness can also stem from issues related to the inner ear, which helps control balance. Conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) could be a factor.

- Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Sometimes, physical symptoms can manifest due to anxiety. If you feel anxious about your symptoms, this can exacerbate the feelings of dizziness and nausea.

To alleviate these symptoms, consider the following steps:
- Stay Hydrated: Continue to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

- Rest Your Eyes: Take regular breaks from screens and ensure you are in well-lit environments.

- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Since these symptoms have persisted, it’s advisable to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests to rule out any underlying conditions.

2. Head Injury and Persistent Bump
Regarding the bump on your head from a previous injury, it’s not uncommon for a localized swelling or bump to persist after a head injury. This could be a result of a hematoma or a benign growth of tissue. While many bumps from head injuries can resolve over time, some may remain. Here’s what you can do:
- Monitor the Bump: If the bump does not change in size or becomes painful, it’s usually not a cause for concern. However, if you notice any changes, such as increased pain, swelling, or other neurological symptoms (like dizziness, confusion, or vision changes), you should seek medical attention.

- Consult a Doctor: It’s always a good idea to have a healthcare professional evaluate any persistent bump, especially after a head injury.

3. Discomfort After Eating and Possible Esophageal Injury
The discomfort you feel after eating, especially after choking, could indicate a few issues:
- Esophageal Injury: If you experienced choking, it’s possible that the esophagus was irritated or injured. This could lead to inflammation, which may cause pain when swallowing.

- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): If you have ongoing pain from your throat to your abdomen, it could be related to acid reflux, which can cause discomfort after eating.

To manage these symptoms:
- Eat Slowly: Take your time when eating to avoid choking and allow your body to process food more comfortably.

- Avoid Irritants: Spicy, acidic, or very hot foods can exacerbate esophageal discomfort.

- Consult a Gastroenterologist: If the pain persists, it’s important to see a specialist who can evaluate your esophagus and recommend appropriate treatment.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation by healthcare professionals. It’s essential to address these issues, especially as you prepare for important academic assessments. Make sure to prioritize your health and seek medical advice to ensure you can focus on your studies without the burden of persistent discomfort. Remember, taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial during stressful times like preparing for exams.

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