Unusual Neurological Symptoms
I am a 32-year-old woman, weighing 145 pounds, and I don’t smoke. My current medications include Lurasidone and Adderall. In 2022, I suffered a bilateral vertebral artery dissection, and apart from that, my only notable medical issue is the removal of my gallbladder in 2023. Over the last few months, I've been experiencing migraines that manifest stroke-like symptoms, prompting visits to the emergency room; fortunately, there have been no strokes recorded. Just this week, I had my first seizure ever, which feels alarming as I’ve never encountered anything like it before. I’m in the process of scheduling an appointment with my neurologist, but I would greatly appreciate any thoughts or explanations regarding these troubling symptoms. Thank you for your help!
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 2:20:34 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the challenging symptoms you're experiencing. The combination of migraines with stroke-like symptoms, along with the recent seizure, understandably raises concern. Let’s break this down and outline some next steps.
Main Points:
- Your history of bilateral vertebral artery dissection could be relevant to your current symptoms.
- Migraines can occasionally resemble stroke symptoms, particularly with aura, but the recent seizure is a significant new development.
- It’s important to monitor your symptoms closely and discuss these concerns with your neurologist.
Explanation:
- Bilateral Vertebral Artery Dissection: This condition can lead to vascular issues that affect blood flow in the brain, which might explain some of your neurological symptoms, including migraines.
- Migraines and Stroke-Like Symptoms: Migraines can mimic other serious conditions, and the symptoms may include visual disturbances, weakness, or numbness. The fact that you've had emergency interventions suggests you are monitoring the severity of these symptoms well.
- First Seizure: Experiencing a seizure for the first time can feel alarming. Seizures can have various causes, including migraines (in some people), changes in medication, or other neurological issues.
Next Steps:
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Documentation: Keep a detailed journal of your symptoms, noting when migraines occur (including their duration and severity), any aura experienced, and details about the seizure (duration, triggers, and recovery). This information will be very helpful for your neurologist.
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Medication Review: Assess if any recent medication adjustments may have contributed to your symptoms. Lurasidone and Adderall both have neurological effects, and it’s worth discussing with your doctor.
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Hydration & Rest: Focus on staying hydrated and ensuring you get adequate rest, as dehydration and fatigue can exacerbate migraines and overall neurological health.
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Avoid Triggers: Be aware of what triggers your migraines or feels unusual in your body, and try to manage or avoid those triggers if possible. This might include stress, certain foods, or lack of sleep.
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Seizure Plan: If you experience another seizure, it’s important to note the context and seek medical attention if necessary. Share this information with your neurologist as well.
While it can be stressful to manage these symptoms, you're taking the right step by planning to consult your neurologist. Continue to observe your symptoms closely and use your documentation to guide your upcoming discussions. Please ensure to prioritize your safety and alert someone if symptoms become severe. Let me know if you need more information!
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