Neurological Symptoms: Eye Pressure and Sensory Changes

Head issues

Hello, Dr.
Lai.
I have a problem that has been troubling me for over two years.
I often feel a sense of blockage behind my eyes and around my nose.
When I slightly move the muscles around my eyes, I hear a popping sound, as if there is fluid behind my eyes.
Sometimes, when watching television, my eyes cannot react quickly enough to fast-moving images.
Additionally, my head feels quite foggy, and I no longer have a clear sense of reality; emotions like happiness and sadness have become very blurred and have persisted for a long time without improvement.
My sleep quality is also poor; I feel like I'm sleeping very lightly and do not wake up with that refreshed feeling.
When the train goes through a tunnel, I experience a feeling of pressure change in my ears that feels like they might explode.
I also feel a sense of blockage above my throat.
Could you please tell me what this condition might be? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/06

Dr. Lai Lunxiang reply Neurology

1.
Please visit an otolaryngologist to check for any issues with your nose and its internal structures.

2.
Seek to improve your sleep (increase physical activity, maintain a regular lifestyle, and avoid stimulating foods).

3.
Please relax and try to ease your nerves.

4.
Consider donating blood occasionally.

Reply Date: 2004/08/06

More Info

Hello, thank you for your question. It sounds like you are experiencing a complex array of symptoms that could be related to several underlying issues. Let's break down your concerns regarding eye pressure, sensory changes, and the overall neurological symptoms you are experiencing.

Firstly, the sensation of pressure or fullness around the eyes and nose can be indicative of several conditions. One possibility is sinusitis, where inflammation of the sinuses can lead to a feeling of pressure in the facial region, particularly around the eyes and nose. This can sometimes be accompanied by a sensation of fluid movement, especially if there is congestion or blockage in the sinus cavities.

The "popping" or "crackling" sound you describe when moving your eye muscles could be related to the movement of fluid or air in the sinuses or even the muscles around the eyes. This is not uncommon and may not necessarily indicate a serious problem, but it is worth discussing with a healthcare professional if it is persistent or bothersome.

Regarding the visual symptoms, such as the feeling that your eyes cannot keep up with fast-moving images on the screen, this could be related to a condition known as visual processing disorder. This disorder affects how the brain interprets visual information, leading to difficulties in tracking moving objects or processing visual stimuli quickly. It can also be exacerbated by fatigue or stress, which may explain your experience of feeling overwhelmed or having a "fuzzy" sensation in your head.

Your description of emotional numbness or a blurring of feelings could be linked to anxiety or depression, which can manifest physically and cognitively. When under stress, the body can react in various ways, including changes in perception and emotional responses. Sleep disturbances, such as feeling unrested upon waking, can further exacerbate these symptoms, creating a cycle of fatigue and emotional dysregulation.

The sensation of pressure changes in your ears, especially during activities like riding a train through a tunnel, suggests that you may also be experiencing Eustachian tube dysfunction. This condition occurs when the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the nose becomes blocked or fails to open properly, leading to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can conduct a thorough evaluation. This may include a comprehensive eye exam, neurological assessment, and possibly imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions. It is also advisable to discuss your emotional and psychological symptoms with a mental health professional, as they can provide support and strategies to help manage anxiety or depression.

In summary, while your symptoms may be interconnected, they could arise from various causes, including sinus issues, visual processing difficulties, emotional disturbances, and Eustachian tube dysfunction. A multidisciplinary approach involving both eye care and mental health professionals may be beneficial in addressing your concerns comprehensively. Please do not hesitate to seek medical advice to ensure you receive the appropriate care and support.

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