Unexplained fatigue and headaches?
Hello Doctor, I have very troubling symptoms and would like to seek different suggestions.
When I wake up in the morning (while lying down) or after a nap (whether lying face down or sitting), I experience dull headaches.
I have a feeling of pressure and soreness behind the upper part of my eyes, along with blurred vision, accompanied by drowsiness and fatigue that persists throughout the day.
These symptoms tend to worsen as I approach noon or before the end of my workday.
During these times, I also feel hungry and occasionally experience low blood sugar, which causes trembling and slight anxiety.
My hearing seems to be impaired as well.
Throughout the day, it feels like my brain is tightly constricted, and my ability to think, react, and remember has significantly declined; I just want to close my eyes and rest to alleviate the discomfort.
I have consulted an ophthalmologist (who diagnosed me with mild dry eye syndrome) and a neurologist multiple times, but they have not identified any issues.
Pre-operative evaluations by internal medicine ruled out factors that could cause fatigue, and both nasal and abdominal CT scans showed no problems (nor did the brain scan).
I can sleep 6 to 7 hours at night and take about a 30-minute nap during the day, with no issues related to insomnia.
I previously had sleep apnea, but after surgery, some symptoms have improved, and my snoring has significantly decreased.
I am quite certain that my symptoms are not psychologically induced, yet doctors have been unable to determine a cause.
I initially thought it was all due to sleep disorders (as indicated by tests), but these symptoms have not resolved post-surgery.
I would like to ask the doctor if there is a possibility of a tumor or what kind of underlying conditions I should investigate further.
Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/17
Dr. Chen Yunfang reply Oncology
Hello: Regarding your symptoms, I would like to perform a blood test (including a complete blood count and endocrine system evaluation).
Thyroid dysfunction, anemia, or polycythemia are all possibilities, and we can investigate these areas further.
Thank you!
Reply Date: 2015/11/17
More Info
Unexplained fatigue and persistent headaches can be quite distressing, especially when they interfere with daily life and activities. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that include dull headaches, a sensation of pressure behind the eyes, fatigue, and occasional hypoglycemic symptoms such as trembling and heart palpitations. Given that you have already consulted with various specialists, including ophthalmologists and neurologists, and have undergone several imaging studies that returned normal results, it is essential to consider a comprehensive approach to your symptoms.
Firstly, the symptoms you describe, particularly the dull headache and pressure behind the eyes, could be indicative of several conditions. One possibility is tension-type headaches, which are often associated with stress, poor posture, or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. These headaches can cause a feeling of tightness or pressure and may be exacerbated by prolonged periods of sitting or lying down in a position that does not support proper spinal alignment. It might be beneficial to evaluate your posture during sleep and daily activities, as well as to incorporate regular breaks and stretching exercises to relieve muscle tension.
Another consideration is the possibility of migraines, which can present with a variety of symptoms, including visual disturbances, sensitivity to light, and fatigue. Although you mentioned that you do not believe your symptoms are psychological, it is worth noting that stress and anxiety can significantly contribute to the frequency and severity of migraines. Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises, may help in managing stress levels and potentially reducing headache occurrences.
Additionally, your mention of feeling fatigued throughout the day, particularly worsening as the day progresses, raises the possibility of sleep-related issues. Even though you have undergone surgery for sleep apnea, it may be worthwhile to reassess your sleep quality. Factors such as sleep hygiene, the sleep environment, and the presence of any residual sleep disorders could be contributing to your fatigue. Keeping a sleep diary to track your sleep patterns, including the quality and duration of sleep, may provide valuable insights.
The sensation of low blood sugar and associated symptoms like trembling and heart palpitations could indicate fluctuations in your blood glucose levels. It may be beneficial to monitor your diet and ensure you are consuming balanced meals at regular intervals to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Consulting with a nutritionist could provide tailored dietary advice to help manage these symptoms.
Regarding your concerns about the possibility of a tumor or other serious conditions, while it is understandable to worry, it is essential to approach this with a rational mindset. The fact that multiple imaging studies have not revealed any abnormalities is reassuring. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be appropriate to discuss further diagnostic options with your healthcare provider, such as additional imaging studies or referrals to specialists in fields like endocrinology or rheumatology, who can evaluate for other underlying conditions that may not have been previously considered.
In summary, while your symptoms are complex and multifaceted, a holistic approach that includes lifestyle modifications, dietary adjustments, and stress management techniques may provide relief. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers and advocate for your health, ensuring that all potential causes are explored thoroughly. If your symptoms continue to be unmanageable, seeking a second opinion or further evaluation from a specialist may be warranted.
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