hi i have a headache for 5 days and it becomes sharp at times and hasn’t gotten any better over the past few days my eye is paining as well as i have glaucoma. I have fever and blisters on my temple
1 Doctor Answer
1 Answer
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Given the symptoms you’ve described, it’s crucial to consider several potential causes and seek immediate medical attention. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the possible conditions and their implications:
1. Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (Shingles involving the eye):
– Symptoms: Fever, headache, and blisters on the temple could indicate shingles, especially if the blisters follow a dermatomal pattern. When shingles affect the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve, it can lead to eye pain and potentially serious ocular complications.
– Action: Immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary. Antiviral medications are most effective when started early.2. Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma:
– Symptoms: Severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and visual disturbances. Although you mentioned having glaucoma, if there’s a sudden increase in intraocular pressure, it could exacerbate symptoms.
– Action: This is an ophthalmic emergency. Seek urgent ophthalmological evaluation to prevent vision loss.3. Infection or Inflammation:
– Symptoms: Fever and headache could also indicate an underlying infection or inflammatory process, such as sinusitis or meningitis, especially if accompanied by neck stiffness or altered consciousness.
– Action: A thorough clinical examination and possibly imaging or lumbar puncture may be required to rule out these conditions.4. Photokeratitis:
– Symptoms: While typically associated with UV exposure, symptoms include eye pain and discomfort around bright lights. However, it usually resolves within a few days, which may not align with your prolonged symptoms.
– Action: Protective measures and symptomatic treatment are advised, but given your symptoms, other causes should be prioritized.5. Trigeminal Neuralgia:
– Symptoms: Sharp, stabbing facial pain could be indicative of trigeminal neuralgia, especially if triggered by touch or temperature changes.
– Action: Neurological evaluation and management with medications like anticonvulsants may be necessary.Given the complexity and potential seriousness of your symptoms, I strongly recommend seeking immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including a detailed history, physical examination, and necessary investigations, to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.
Hi, thank you for your message. Based on what you’ve described, there are a few different possible causes and I would really need to examine your eye to give you a clearer answer.
There are also other possible diagnoses we’d need to consider, especially since your symptoms involve multiple areas.
I’d really advise that you see an ophthalmologist or go to a hospital for a proper eye examination and further work-up.
Regards,
Dr Grace Tan
Ophthalmology Medical Officer
Ministry of Health Malaysia