Experiencing Occasional Visual Disturbances and Headaches
This situation is quite unusual and a bit uncomfortable for me to discuss, but I feel it's important to share. I engage in masturbation approximately once per month. However, every few times I do, I notice the appearance of transient blind spots in my vision. These spots shift and grow larger before ultimately disappearing within an hour. Typically, this is followed by a headache that begins in the center of my forehead, spreads to my right eye, travels back to my forehead, and eventually covers the entire right side of my head. This pattern has become concerning to me, but unfortunately, my parents have refused to allow me to consult a medical professional. Additionally, there is a significant history of migraines on my mother's side of the family. I have tried to research my symptoms online and the results often point towards migraines, but I am uncertain if that's what I actually have.
Answers (1)
7/28/2025, 10:10:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing visual disturbances and headaches that are concerning and disruptive. Given your family history of migraines, it is possible that what you're experiencing may be related to migraines, particularly a type called "aura." Let's break it down to help you understand your symptoms better and provide some actionable next steps.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms may suggest a type of migraine with aura, especially considering your family history.
- The visual disturbances (transient blind spots) and subsequent headache pattern are notable.
- It’s important to manage your symptoms and monitor their frequency and severity.
Explanation:
-
Visual Disturbances: The transient blind spots you notice (sometimes referred to as "scintillating scotomas") can be associated with migraine aura. These typically appear before the headache phase and can vary in size and shape.
-
Headache Characteristics: The headache following the vision changes that starts centrally and spreads can align with migraine symptoms. The intensity and location of headaches vary, but they often accompany the visual disturbances.
-
Family History: With your mother's family having a significant history of migraines, there is a likelihood that you may inherit similar conditions, which often have a genetic component.
Next Steps:
-
Symptom Diary: Start keeping a diary documenting each occurrence of the visual disturbances and headaches. Note the date, duration, any triggers (like stress or dehydration), and what you were doing when it started. This can help identify patterns that you can discuss when you eventually seek medical advice.
-
Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you stay well-hydrated and maintain a regular eating schedule. Low blood sugar and dehydration can sometimes trigger headaches.
-
Avoid Triggers: Try to avoid known migraine triggers (e.g., strong lights, certain foods, stress). Keeping a log will help you find out your unique triggers.
-
Pain Management: If a headache occurs, over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) may help manage your symptoms. Follow the recommended dosage on the label.
-
Relaxation Techniques: Implement stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, as stress can contribute to migraines.
-
Future Considerations: When you feel able to discuss your concerns, consider talking to a healthcare provider about your symptoms. Explain the nature of the visual disturbances and headaches, including the family history. They can help you explore treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes or prescription medications if necessary.
It’s understandable to feel concerned, but taking these steps can help you understand and manage your symptoms better. Please remember that while your symptoms may suggest a common issue like migraines, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation when you are able.
Related Questions
Concern Over Laparoscopic Wound Condition
A 35-year-old female, weighing 63 kg, underwent surgery on July 9. Initially, her recovery appeared to be progressing smoothly; however, complications arose. By July 17, the absorbable stitches began to cause significant irritation. By the 24th, inflammation and redness had resulted in the complete closure of her belly button. On July 26, she persuaded the district nurse to remove the stitches. Now, there is a noticeable accumulation of white substance present, and while the wound is discharging, there is no unpleasant odor. On July 24, she was prescribed a five-day course of antibiotics, which she is set to complete in the morning. Attempts to contact her surgeon have been unsuccessful as she has not been able to communicate past the ward sister. Her general practitioner has repeatedly referred her back to the hospital for further assistance. In the meantime, she is seeking guidance from anyone experienced with laparoscopic wounds regarding whether or not her situation warrants concern. She has been unable to upload a photo for reference, but any advice from individuals with relevant experience would be greatly appreciated!
One Week Post-Ear Reconstruction Surgery: Seeking Pain Relief Advice
Age: 28, Height: 5'5", Weight: 150 lbs, Location: England Current Medication: Morphine 10mg/5ml Health Background: Experiencing moderate to severe bilateral hearing loss, reliant on hearing aids. Hello everyone, I wanted to share an update following my significant surgery in May. For those interested in my earlier experiences, feel free to check out my previous discussion with attached details. Since undergoing the procedure, I had the BIPP gauze taken out on June 2nd, which was quite an ordeal. The sensation was akin to having a plug pulled from my brain, accompanied by unexpected noises and considerable bleeding. On the bright side, the surgeon mentioned that the graft is healing well. Now, almost three months post-operation, I often experience ear fatigue characterized by a nerve-like burning sensation, especially when lying on my ear for too long or when using headphones that exert pressure on the area. Additionally, the right side of my tongue remains numb, and there’s some soreness around the top of my ear and at the scar site. I frequently feel a sense of “fullness” in my right ear, particularly when I’m lying on that side. It feels as if everything is draining toward that side, and I’ve been dealing with a persistent yellowish-white discharge. Unfortunately, I haven't had a chance to consult an ENT specialist yet, as the NHS system tends to be quite slow. I am currently awaiting an appointment for a hearing evaluation, but I’m not very hopeful about the outcomes. For those who are curious, I can share some images to illustrate my condition. Any insights as to whether I should be more proactive about seeing an ENT specialist based on this ear discharge or if this is just part of the regular healing process would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your support, Reddit!
Seeking a Second Opinion on Left Shoulder Issues
I am a 36-year-old Caucasian male, standing at 5'9" and weighing 160 pounds. I smoked roughly a pack a day for ten years but quit two and a half years ago. Recently, I was prescribed Adderall XR about eight days ago, and I occasionally indulge in maybe two to three alcoholic beverages weekly. My shoulder troubles began approximately two weeks ago when I made a conscious effort to target my shoulders more during workouts. Initially, I experienced a peculiar sensation while reaching for objects, but it was not accompanied by any pain or restricted movement. After about ten days, I spent roughly two hours playing the drums, not continuously, and felt relatively fine. I usually maintain an active lifestyle, engaging in walking, gym sessions, and kayak fishing at least three times a week. I pushed through my workout routine despite the initial odd feeling, which evolved into mild discomfort but was not enough to disrupt my exercise regimen. However, after about ten days, I noticed a slightly worsening discomfort. While playing the drums, which lasted a couple of hours, I did not encounter any pain. Yet, upon finishing, I experienced excruciating pain when reaching for a drink on the counter, and my shoulder seemed unresponsive. Three days into this issue, I took Ibuprofen, which provided some relief, yet pain persisted with specific restrictions in movement. When I keep my elbow close to my body, there is no issue, but if I turn my thumb down, I can move my arm through a full range. On the other hand, if my hand is level with the ground or my thumb is positioned upwards, I can only lift my arm to about a 90° angle. I can extend my elbow fully, but rotating my arm upward is limited to about 5 to 10 degrees. The rapid development of these symptoms seems atypical for what is generally described as a frozen shoulder condition. My evaluation did not include any physical range of motion assessments; I was only asked questions which led to a diagnosis. I have a physical therapy appointment scheduled, but I'm questioning whether I should seek another opinion given the lack of physical examinations during my initial assessment. An X-ray has been requested as part of the investigation.
Unusual Linear Bruising: A Concern with Vascular Implications?
Age: 30, Female Condition: POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) Diagnosis: Mitral Valve Prolapse with Moderate Regurgitation, plus minor regurgitation in other heart valves. Medications: Taking propranolol at a dosage of 40 mg twice daily, buspirone at 20 mg twice daily, Lamictal at 25 mg once daily, Pristiq at 100 mg once daily, and Ritalin Extended Release at 54 mg once daily. Additionally, supplementing with CoQ10 at 200 mg once or twice daily. Greetings! As indicated in my title, I have experienced peculiar bruising on my legs periodically over the past year or two. I have been diagnosed with POTS, and I may possibly have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. I'm scheduled to consult with a rheumatologist soon. Notably, these bruises seem to align with my veins. I'm uncertain about the cause—there's been no trauma or injury involved. These occurrences tend to coincide with times when I’m more susceptible to bruising, such as developing dark marks from resting my elbow on my leg. I would appreciate any insight into this matter! Thank you!
Understanding Intramuscular Myxoma: Seeking Guidance
A 42-year-old male, standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 210 pounds, currently has no medications and no known allergies. Recently, I was informed that I might have a benign tumor, specifically an intramuscular myxoma. This diagnosis has been quite distressing and has emerged after years of uncertainty. I find myself questioning the accuracy of this assessment and would greatly appreciate a second opinion or any insights. The main concern is a lump located in my temple area. It does not cause any pain, and there are no additional symptoms accompanying it. From what I’ve learned, myxomas are rather uncommon. Compounding this situation is the fact that this lump fluctuates in size, occasionally swelling and then reducing in dimension. Considering I’m a male with a hard consistency of the lump and its specific location, I am not entirely convinced by the current diagnosis. Any constructive feedback would be greatly valued. Thank you.