Experiencing Numbness and Visual Disturbances on the Left Side of My Head
I am a 28-year-old male, standing 6 feet tall and weighing 235 pounds. My current prescription regimen includes 40 mg of extended-release Adderall and 1 mg of Klonopin. Additionally, I take 2 grams of Kratom daily without a prescription and have experimented with various over-the-counter sleep aids, such as Doxylamine Succinate, Melatonin, CBD, Magnesium, Advil PM, Tylenol PM, and Restful Legs PM. My medical history includes diagnoses of paranoid schizophrenia, attention deficit disorder (ADD), generalized anxiety disorder, major depression, and I have a body mass index (BMI) categorizing me as overweight (25-29.9). Lately, I have been experiencing a sensation of numbness on the left side of my head, specifically above my ear. I find it increasingly challenging to maintain focus with my vision, particularly in my left eye. When I allow my vision to relax, I notice a tingling sensation in my head that often leads to feelings of nausea until I can regain my focus. This issue has fluctuated over the course of the last month but has escalated considerably in the past three days, leaving me feeling drained and unable to concentrate on any tasks. I have regular check-ups with my primary care physician (PCP) every three months for assessments and medication refills. For five years, I was prescribed Olanzapine but decided to discontinue its use because of severe fatigue and significant weight gain. I stopped taking it six months ago, and since then, I have struggled with sleep issues and have not experienced a full night's rest in about four to five months. Despite attempting various over-the-counter sleep aids, I have not found relief. During my most recent appointment, I discussed these concerns and was subsequently referred to a new psychiatrist, with whom I have an appointment scheduled on the 10th. I would greatly appreciate any insights or guidance regarding my situation. Thank you for your help.
Answers (1)
3/27/2025, 6:31:12 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s important that you’re reaching out about these concerning symptoms. The numbness and visual disturbances you’re experiencing could stem from a range of causes, particularly considering your medical history and current medication regimen.
Understanding Your Symptoms
Numbness, tingling, and visual changes can signify a few possibilities, such as:
- Nerve issues: Pinched nerves or issues with blood flow can sometimes cause numbness.
- Medication effects: Certain medications, especially those affecting the brain, can result in side effects including numbness or vision disturbances.
- Over-the-counter sleep aids: Some can interact with your existing medications, causing increased anxiety or cognitive disturbances which may lead to your symptoms.
- Psychiatric conditions: Conditions like anxiety or depression might contribute to or exacerbate physical sensations.
Given the nature of your symptoms, especially since they have worsened in the last few days, it's crucial to focus on taking immediate steps to track and manage your situation.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed journal of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your upcoming psychiatric appointment.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are staying hydrated, as dehydration can sometimes exacerbate neurological symptoms. Aim for a balanced diet to support overall health.
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Reduce Over-the-Counter Medications: Consider cutting back on the various over-the-counter sleep aids you're using. Excessive use can complicate your situation and may be contributing to your symptoms. Focus on one or two methods (like magnesium for calming) and monitor the response.
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Managing Anxiety and Sleep: Engage in relaxing activities to help manage anxiety and improve sleep hygiene. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and creating a consistent bedtime routine can promote better rest.
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Wait for Psychiatric Appointment: Since you have a scheduled appointment with a psychiatrist, prepare to discuss all of your symptoms in detail. Ask about medication adjustments or alternatives, particularly concerning your Adderall and any interactions with other substances like Kratom.
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Emergency Signs: If you experience any sudden worsening of symptoms, new severe headaches, loss of consciousness, or visual disturbances that significantly interfere with your daily functioning, seek immediate medical attention.
It’s good that you have a mental health appointment coming up to discuss these issues. Trust that many people experience fluctuations in their mental health and related symptoms, and seeking help is an excellent step towards feeling better. Please keep track of your symptoms and stay proactive about your health.
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