Headache involving the eyeball?
Hello Doctor,
I would like to ask you a question.
A few years ago, I was in a car accident where I hit my head, but the doctors forgot to perform any examinations, and I was left in the dark about it.
Since then, I have been experiencing frequent headaches, sometimes daily, to the point where the pain is unbearable and I cannot move.
The pain comes and goes; sometimes it lasts for a while, and other times it disappears for a period.
I have seen a doctor, but they mentioned that if there were any growths or hematomas in my brain, it wouldn't have lasted this long.
Recently, I have been waking up at night with severe headaches, and there have been times when I woke up feeling weak all over, nauseous, dizzy, and extremely uncomfortable to the point where I couldn't stand.
Yesterday, I experienced pain again, and I took painkillers in the morning, but they were ineffective.
The pain extends to the area around my eyes, and I am unsure if it is related to the nerves.
Today, my vision has significantly deteriorated; I can barely see faces from ten meters away, and everything appears blurry.
This level of severity and the eye pain only started yesterday, and now I can hardly see anything or read.
I am concerned about whether this is serious.
Thank you for your response!
Xiao Chun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/03/26
Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
There are many causes of headaches, and it is currently unclear whether it is related to the previous car accident.
A neurological examination is necessary for assessment, and it is recommended to visit a neurology outpatient clinic.
Reply Date: 2004/03/26
More Info
Headaches associated with eye pain can be indicative of various underlying neurological conditions, especially considering your history of head trauma from a car accident. It is crucial to understand that headaches can arise from multiple sources, and when they are accompanied by visual disturbances or eye pain, it necessitates a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.
Given your symptoms, including persistent headaches, episodes of severe pain, and recent visual changes such as blurred vision, it is essential to consider several potential causes. One possibility is that you may be experiencing a form of migraine, particularly if the pain is unilateral (affecting one side of the head) and associated with visual disturbances. Migraines can often cause throbbing pain and may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. In some cases, migraines can also lead to temporary visual disturbances, known as aura, which can include blurred vision or even temporary loss of vision.
Another consideration is tension-type headaches, which can be triggered by stress, poor posture, or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. These headaches can also cause discomfort around the eyes and may lead to a sensation of pressure or tightness. However, the severity and persistence of your symptoms, along with the recent changes in your vision, suggest that a more serious condition may need to be ruled out.
Given your history of head trauma, it is crucial to consider the possibility of post-traumatic headaches or even more serious complications such as intracranial hemorrhage or other structural changes in the brain. Although your previous doctors indicated that significant issues would likely not persist for this long, the recent escalation of your symptoms warrants further investigation.
Additionally, conditions such as increased intracranial pressure, which can occur due to various reasons, including certain types of headaches, can lead to visual disturbances and should be evaluated. Other potential causes of eye pain and headaches include conditions like cluster headaches, which are characterized by severe unilateral pain around the eye, and can be accompanied by tearing or nasal congestion.
Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is highly recommended that you seek a comprehensive evaluation from a neurologist. They may perform a neurological examination and potentially order imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess for any structural abnormalities or other underlying issues. It is also advisable to consult with an ophthalmologist to rule out any eye-related conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.
In summary, the combination of persistent headaches, eye pain, and recent visual changes is concerning and should not be ignored. A thorough medical evaluation is essential to determine the underlying cause and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and help manage your symptoms effectively. Please prioritize scheduling an appointment with a neurologist and an eye specialist to address these issues comprehensively.
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