OpenHealth Q&A

Struggling with Memory Loss, Weakness, and Headaches – Seeking Guidance

At just 20 years old, I'm feeling incredibly anxious about the troubling issues I've been facing. These problems began three years ago, but they have intensified significantly, especially with some strange symptoms that have recently appeared. I'm reaching out to see if anyone can provide some insight into my situation, as I'm feeling lost. Here’s a detailed account of my journey thus far. The onset of my troubles began during an exam three years ago when I was abruptly engulfed in a peculiar mental haze. It felt as if I were in a dream; my focus vanished, and everything around me seemed off-kilter. Initially, these episodes occurred infrequently, but they increased in frequency and severity over the next couple of years. Approximately nine months ago, I realized that I was spending much of my time indoors, avoiding sunlight altogether. Consequently, I discovered that my vitamin D levels were alarmingly low at 16.80 ng/ml, which might be a contributing factor. Half a year ago marked my first migraine experience. During this incident, my peripheral vision deteriorated, preventing me from seeing anything out of the corner of my eyes—an issue my mother has long faced herself. This moment triggered a series of negative developments in my health. Life became a constant battle against overwhelming fatigue, rendering me barely functional. The fog clouding my thoughts has become a part of my everyday existence; I often feel like I'm functioning on autopilot, scarcely aware of my actions. What’s particularly frightening is that I have almost no recollection of the past six months—dates, events, even daily interactions feel entirely absent from my memory. I can recall major life moments, but the ordinary days seem lost forever. In the past three months, I’ve endured several more migraines—two or three, to be exact. During these episodes, my vision would again blur at the sides, mirroring my mother’s experiences. Additional peculiar symptoms have emerged as well: I’ve struggled with finding the right words, and sometimes I detect scents that aren’t actually there. There are times when I notice a strange odor pervading everything, though it doesn't occur constantly. My mood swings are rapid and unpredictable, and I find myself becoming inexplicably irritable. Sudden, loud sounds have become increasingly bothersome, and there are instances where my limbs twitch involuntarily, albeit mildly. About three weeks ago, I experienced numbness in my left hand for two consecutive weeks. The tingling sensation spread up my forearm, though I retained mobility in my hand, it felt unsettling. Although this numbness has improved, my left arm now feels weaker, particularly when writing on my iPad. Just two days ago, I started stuttering; words felt jumbled, as if I were misplacing letters or grappling to articulate them, especially when fatigue set in. This incident repeated itself again today (March 25, 2025), amplifying my unease. I have also been plagued by a peculiar headache localized in the back right of my head, accompanied by a peculiar pressure around my right eye, although my vision remains intact. This discomfort has recurred several times over recent days, occasionally shifting to my left eye, but it returned to the right today. My sleep has been consistently disrupted, and I often awaken from naps in a daze. Additionally, I’ve been under significant stress and have unresolved childhood trauma that may be influencing my current state. I've undergone several tests, including a normal EEG. My blood tests revealed low vitamin D levels (16.80 ng/ml), prediabetes (A1C 5.9%), elevated calcium (10.2 mg/dL), high phosphorus (4.6 mg/dL), increased alkaline phosphatase (138.4 U/L), high LDL cholesterol (119.1 mg/dL), elevated platelet count (351 × 10³/µL), and a low INR (0.88). My urine analysis indicated high specific gravity (1.024) with some mucus present. Importantly, I have experienced no issues with balance or permanent vision impairment, and my memory sometimes functions adequately for short periods, only to retreat once more. Notably, there is no family history of memory disorders aside from my mother’s migraines. I have a doctor's appointment on the horizon, but I'm desperate for answers in the meantime. The combination of memory loss, weakness in my left arm, speech difficulties, and recurring headaches is weighing heavily on me. What might be causing these issues? Would it be advisable to request an MRI or any further evaluations? I appreciate any assistance—my longing to feel like my old self is growing more intense each day.

Answers (1)

3/26/2025, 4:01:08 AM

OpenHealth AI

I'm sorry to hear about the challenging symptoms you're experiencing. It’s understandable to feel anxious given the range of issues you described. From what you've shared, several factors could be contributing to your memory loss, headaches, weakness, and other unusual symptoms. Let's break this down.

Main Points:

1. Symptoms: You have a history of cognitive fog, memory lapses, migraines, peripheral vision disturbances, and physical weakness in your left arm, which can be concerning.
2. Possible Causes: Your persistent symptoms may relate to low vitamin D levels, migraines, stress, or disturbances in other bodily functions.
3. Immediate Actions: Focus on managing your vitamin D deficiency and other lifestyle factors while preparing for your doctor's appointment.

Explanation:

You mentioned low vitamin D levels, which can affect mood and cognitive function. Migraines often come with neurological symptoms, such as visual disturbances and even temporary weakness. The combination of headaches, memory lapses, and mood swings can also imply that stress and unresolved trauma might be contributing to your current state.

The medically relevant results from your blood tests indicate some imbalances, including prediabetes and elevated calcium levels, which should be closely monitored by your healthcare provider. It's pertinent to address both neurological and metabolic health comprehensively.

Prioritized Next Steps:

1. Vitamin D Supplementation: Start taking vitamin D supplements as recommended by a healthcare professional. This can support cognitive function and overall health.

2. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you're drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and proteins. This can improve energy levels and cognitive clarity.

3. Symptom Tracking: Before your doctor’s appointment, keep a detailed diary of your symptoms. Include when they occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers (food, stress, etc.). This detailed record will provide essential insights for your healthcare provider.

4. Stress Management: Consider engaging in relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercise like yoga. Managing stress can help alleviate some of your cognitive and physical symptoms.

5. Discuss Imaging Options: At your upcoming appointment, express your concerns about the memory loss, weakness, and headaches. It’s appropriate to ask if an MRI would be warranted to rule out any serious conditions.

6. Follow-Up on Blood Test Results: Inquire about specific recommendations regarding your blood work, particularly regarding calcium levels and any additional tests that can investigate your symptoms further.

Conclusion:

It’s vital to address these symptoms holistically, and your upcoming doctor's appointment will be a significant step in understanding your condition better. Continue to reach out for support, whether through friends, family, or supportive communities, as you navigate this process. Remember, you're not alone in this, and taking these steps will help you reclaim your health.