Navigating Post-Concussion Symptoms: A Year of Exhaustion, Neck Discomfort, and Vision Issues
**Patient Profile:** - 23-year-old male, height 184 cm, weight 108 kg (has struggled with obesity for a long time). - Current medications: 10 mg Lisinopril and 30 mg Citalopram. **Medical Background:** - In childhood, experienced reflux to one kidney leading to slight underdevelopment; now under control with Lisinopril to prevent hypertension. Kidney function is currently stable. - Asthmatic, primarily triggered post-viral infections. - Citalopram is used to manage OCD; therapy was effective, and dosage is maintained due to ongoing symptoms (further details below). Greetings everyone, After enduring persistent and severe symptoms for over a year, I’m reaching out for advice and shared experiences. I’ve consulted with a neurologist on multiple occasions, yet I am still searching for a clearer understanding of my condition. If you’ve faced something similar or have insights into these symptoms, please share. **Migraine Background** Since I turned 16 (in 2018), I’ve had sporadic migraine episodes occurring every couple of months, which included: - Throbbing discomfort at the back of my head (not distinctly one-sided) - Intense fatigue - Sensitivity to light and sound Typically, these episodes persisted for around 72 hours, and after normal brain imaging results, I opted against medication due to their infrequency. **Summer 2024 Episodes** During the summer of 2024, I experienced a migraine episode that alarmingly extended over two weeks instead of the usual three days. My neurologist recommended a medication, typically prescribed for epilepsy, but I hesitated due to concerns about possible side effects, allowing the episode to pass without intervention. **November 2024 Developments** In November 2024, I began to notice a hypersensitive patch above my right eyebrow that occasionally caused dizziness. My neurologist wasn’t particularly concerned and advised physical therapy. Therapists identified tightness on the right side of my neck, indicating a potential source of referred pain. Although the therapy offered some relief, the sensitivity persisted. **March 2025 Incident** In March 2025, I suffered a significant blow to my head from a cupboard while unloading the dishwasher. While I remained conscious, I experienced debilitating headaches and exhaustion that lingered for several days. Around the same timeframe, I relocated 100 km to live with my girlfriend, leaving little room for adequate recovery. It was from this incident that my condition noticeably deteriorated. **Symptoms Post-March 2025** From May/June 2025 onwards, I’ve faced a series of troubling symptoms: - Intense and unrefreshing fatigue that strikes suddenly. - Neck pain radiating to my skull base. - Headaches that fluctuate between muscular tension and full-blown migraines. - Extreme sensitivity to light and sounds. - Increased irritability and significant challenges with concentration. This cycle seems to repeat itself: neck discomfort → headache → fatigue → brief relief → repeat. **Eye-related Distress** One particularly troubling symptom I experience feels like "eye fatigue": - Severe dryness in the eyes, leading to redness. - Difficulty keeping my eyes open, as if they are exhausted. I have attempted various remedies, such as: - Eye drops - Creating an allergy-friendly environment - Ensuring my living space is free from mold - Keeping humidity levels between 50% and 55% Unfortunately, none of these measures have alleviated the dryness. **September–November 2025 Updates** By now, I was experiencing daily fatigue, with neck pain and headaches appearing weekly. While physical therapy and massage treatments sometimes provided temporary comfort, my capacity to manage school and work responsibilities diminished, placing additional strain on my personal relationships due to my frequent fatigue. A recent sleep study (PSG) identified mild restless leg syndrome. **Concerns About Environment** With the onset of my symptoms coinciding with both my move and head trauma, I speculated whether my new surroundings were a factor. Two weeks ago, I returned to my original home, but my symptoms quickly resurfaced, including neck tightness, headaches, fatigue, and deteriorating eye function, indicating it may not be environmental. **Other Symptoms Noted** - Sensation of fullness in my ears - “Cracking” sounds in my ears triggered by loud noises - Heightened irritability - Ongoing sensitivity to light and noise **Current Assessment** My neurologist suspects a combination of: - Post-Concussion Syndrome - Migraines - Psychological stress They have suggested trying Amitriptyline, however, I feel that my ongoing symptoms are not being fully acknowledged, leading me to question whether there's an underlying issue. **Seeking Guidance** I have a few pressing questions: - Can migraines singularly lead to this level of exhaustion and eye-related symptoms? - Is it possible for a minor head injury to initiate such long-lasting symptoms? - Can the ‘eye fatigue’ I describe be associated with migraines or post-concussion syndrome? - Does anyone find this situation relatable? Just yesterday, I had to cancel an outing with my girlfriend due to an unforeseen bout of fatigue—my eyes became red and dry, forcing me to retreat home for sleep. This is the toll it is taking on my life. I am eager to comprehend my situation better and determine the appropriate next steps. Any insights or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 10:01:11 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the challenging symptoms you've been experiencing. It sounds like you're going through a complex situation with multiple overlapping issues that are affecting your quality of life. Let's address your main concerns regarding your post-concussion symptoms, migraines, and eye-related issues.
Key Points:
- Post-Concussion Syndrome and Migraines: Both conditions can lead to profound fatigue and other symptoms you're experiencing.
- Eye Fatigue: This issue can indeed be connected to migraines or post-concussion syndrome.
- Follow-up Strategies: It's important to manage symptoms actively and consider seeking supportive therapies.
Explanation of Your Symptoms:
- Migraines: These can lead to significant fatigue and sensory sensitivities, such as light and sound. Even though your migraines were infrequent earlier, the episode lasting two weeks suggests they may be worsening or changing in character.
- Post-Concussion Syndrome: After head trauma, it's common to experience lingering symptoms that include headaches, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties.
- Eye Fatigue: Dryness and discomfort can exacerbate when you're fatigued or under stress; this can be a response to migraines or general fatigue.
Next Steps:
-
Symptom Tracking: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting triggers (food, activities, environment), the severity of headaches, fatigue levels, and any eye symptoms. This can help identify patterns and inform your treatment.
-
Treatment Evaluation: Since your neurologist has suggested Amitriptyline, consider discussing this option again. It can help prevent migraines and alleviate neck pain if given time. If you're hesitant, voice your concerns about side effects so they can guide you appropriately.
-
Physical Therapy and Relaxation: Continue with physical therapy focused on neck and shoulder relaxation, but also incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga. These can reduce tension that contributes to headaches.
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Eye Care: Explore using lubricating eye drops more frequently throughout the day. Also, consider using a humidifier, especially in dry environments, and ensure you’re taking breaks from screens to reduce eye strain.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintain a regular sleep schedule to combat fatigue. Exercise, even light movement, can also increase energy levels when you're able.
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Support Network: Discuss your feelings about your symptoms and their impact with your girlfriend and close friends. Engaging your support system can mitigate feelings of isolation and pressure.
Reassurance:
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed given the persistence of your symptoms and their disruptive nature. You’re not alone in this, and many have faced similar struggles. Keeping a proactive approach with your symptoms will be beneficial. If you notice significant changes or worsening symptoms, it will be critical to seek further evaluation.
Please continue sharing your experience and feelings as they develop; it can help in refining your approach to managing these complex symptoms.
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