Exploring Neck and Eye Pain Seven Months Post Chiropractic Care: Could It Indicate Carotid Artery Dissection?
In September of last year, I visited a chiropractor on four separate occasions for neck adjustments. Since that time, I have been troubled by intermittent discomfort on the right side of my neck, headaches localized to the same area, and pain affecting my right eye. Notably, during these episodes of eye pain, I’ve observed that my right pupil appears somewhat larger than the left one. I’ve come across information regarding carotid artery dissection and I’m curious if this could relate to my symptoms. Additionally, I’ve felt a small lump at the right side of my neck, at the location where I can palpate the arterial pulse; this lump is absent on the left side. Could it be feasible that I have had carotid artery dissection for seven months without experiencing severe complications? Typically, would symptoms escalate quickly if this were indeed the issue? Today, I have an appointment scheduled with an internist. What specific imaging should I request to ensure that my neck is in good condition? I’m a 23-year-old woman, eager to understand the next steps in addressing my health concerns.
Answers (1)
3/19/2025, 11:00:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about your symptoms, especially given your history of chiropractic care and the specific nature of the discomfort you're experiencing. Here’s a concise overview of your situation:
Main Points
You are experiencing ongoing neck pain, headaches, eye pain, and an uneven pupil size following chiropractic visits. Your concern about carotid artery dissection is valid, but it's important to assess the full picture before jumping to conclusions.
Explanation
Carotid artery dissection is a serious condition, but it typically presents with more acute symptoms such as severe headache (often described as the worst headache of one’s life), neck pain, or neurological deficits, rather than persistent mild symptoms over several months. The fact that you've had these symptoms for seven months without significant escalation or severe complications is a good sign, but it's still essential to investigate further due to the nature of your complaints.
The lump you feel in your neck could be related to muscle tension, lymph nodes, or other benign conditions. However, the asymmetry in pupil size (anisocoria) alongside neck and eye pain can warrant a thorough evaluation.
Next Steps
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Keep Your Internist Appointment: This is crucial for a proper assessment. Be open about all your symptoms and concerns.
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Request Specific Imaging: Consider asking for:
- Ultrasound of the carotid arteries: This is a non-invasive way to check for abnormalities, such as dissection or stenosis.
- MRI or CT Angiography: If your internist thinks it’s necessary, these imaging techniques provide detailed views of your blood vessels and can rule out dissection or other vascular issues.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes, especially if you notice increased severity of headaches, new neurological signs (like numbness or weakness), or changes in vision.
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Reassess Lifestyle and Stressors: Sometimes, neck pain and headaches can be exacerbated by stress, poor posture, or tension. Gentle stretches, heat application, and relaxation techniques might provide some relief.
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Follow Up: Depending on the results of your imaging and doctor’s assessment, ensure you follow up with your healthcare provider for any further necessary evaluations or referrals to specialists if needed.
Your health and peace of mind are important, so taking these steps will help you feel more in control and informed about your situation. Let me know how it goes!
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