4 Months of pain..

I am 24 years old. Until 4 months ago, I had never had a medical problem aside from the normal flu, chicken pox, or cold. In March I had a seizure and was rushed to the ER. I had never had one before and ever since I have been experiencing horrible heachaches and sensetivitiy to light and other things. I have been seeing a neurologist, who has tried 2 different medicines. I know it is a long process, but it is really putting my life on hold. It is keeping me from finishing college as easily as I would have liked and I lost my job. It seems every time I go in the sunlight or heat I get headaches that feel like they have to do with my eyes, the back of my neck tenses up very tightly, and it is much harder to focus and concentrate on things. My temples pulsate and almost feel like they are swelling up and I also tend to feel much more anxiety then normal. I feel just fine indoors in the dark and air conditioning, but I cannot live my life like that. Any ideas? I want to feel normal again...Thank you to anyone who helps!

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? What tests were done? Photophobia is eye discomfort in bright light. This can be due to eye conditions,  migraine headache and even from medications. While light sensitivity can be reduced by avoiding sunlight, closing the eyes, wearing dark glasses, or darkening the room, the cause for the light sensitivity should be determined. Migraine headaches respond well to both abortive and preventive medications. Imaging modalities such as CTscan may help determine the underlying cause. Take care and do keep us posted.

[Logan182]

A CT scan, MRI, and two EEG's have been performed. The seizure medication I was on was called Zonisamide...and it made all of my symptoms worse. I was taken off of that and put on Amitripylene, which I am currently on. It doesn't seem to be doing a whole lot but the doctor wants me to try it for 3 months and I am on month 2. My sleep pattern is messed up badly now as well; I don't know if it is from the medicines, or just lack of exercise since I'm stuck indoors so much now. Thank you for the help.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
Thank you for your update. Zonisimide is indicated for seizure disorders while Amitriptyline is an antidepressant drug.  Some of the side effects of Zonisimide include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting and trouble sleeping. (http://www.medicinenet.com/zonisamide-oral/article.htm). Amitriptyline, on the other hand may cause any of the following effects:increased heart rate, blurred vision, urinary retention, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain or loss, and low blood pressure on standing. (http://www.medicinenet.com/amitriptyline/article.htm).If the results of your tests were all fine, continue with the medication you are in. However, this medication should not be discontinued abruptly since it can cause withdrawal symptoms even when a few doses are missed. Try to have regular exercise in your home. Regular follow up with your doctor  is essential.  Take care and best regards.