← Return to Head feels like it will explode daily. Severe cognitive difficulties

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@saronoff

I am so sorry to hear what you're going through. This is far too much, and at such a young age. It's clear you are self reliant, determined, and intelligent. These skills will help you while you progress through your journey towards health. Please do not give up! Although you may feel it's hopeless at times (I certainly did and continue to at times), there's always the possibility for healing with the right help and support.

I am a 61 year old female and have a history of vestibular migraines going back 7 years. After seeing multiple neurologists, they discovered I have what's called transverse sinus stenosis, resulting in a condition named Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension. Although I had multiple MRIs, it wasn't until a neurologist who specialized in tinnitus (I experience this intermittently) ordered an MRV of my brain that they discovered this. Since I was diagnosed, I've read reports of younger people with this condition who were helped tremendously by a procedure that involves placing a stent in the sinus vein.

I also want to mention that some of your symptoms sound like they're related to a dysregulated nervous system. I experience this due to an autoimmune disease and it's been a struggle, but I'm learning more and beginning to understand how to help ease some of my symptoms. I recommend you begin to research both of these conditions (idiopathic intracranial hypertension and dysregulated nervous system) and see if anything sounds familiar. If not, it's another thing you can check off your list. If so, it may provide some leads for you to pursue.

I've included some links to studies below, as well as links to two books that have helped me a lot. The first (Brave New Medicine) is written by a female doctor who experienced a debilitating illness that was extremely difficult to diagnose and treat. It gave her an entirely new perspective on the limitations of traditional approaches to medicine and, over time, she was able to heal herself. Although you may not feel you have anything in common with the author, this book may give you hope and make you realize you are not alone—nor is this all in your head. The second book, The Nervous System Reset, provides an excellent overview of the autonomic nervous system, as well as exercises to help balance dysregulation. This has helped me a lot. I checked them both out from my local library and eventually purchased them for reference.

One last thing I want to mention is that I now pay careful attention to my water intake, since dehydration will quickly result in a headache. Are you drinking enough water? If not, this is something you can try immediately. It's free, accessible, and my provide some relief. Also, what about your diet? I have to be super careful about what I eat, which allows me to live my life. Are you eating a healthy, balanced diet? Have you tried keeping a food journal to see if there's a correlation between food and your headaches and other symptoms? If not, something else to consider.

I hope you're able to locate someone to help guide you towards health and healing, and that you're able to find relief.

-SA

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension in males
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5946368/
Transverse Sinus Stenosis as an Underdiagnosed Cause of Chronic Headache: A Case Report
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11410061/
Chronic Stress and Headaches: The Role of the HPA Axis and Autonomic Nervous System
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11852498/
Brave New Medicine
https://www.amazon.com/Brave-New-Medicine-Unconventional-Autoimmune-ebook/dp/B07MQXR5DC/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RCUPEQXCD56J&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vVnAoHQ1WOxbzMjAvpD_YWpIF7heh0-m7K-IcQHiyh1zDb8FhdzZIlHrcehpYzyA.Qnr7xtIXMbRvf-Cvpk0XS-cNaQ4nrzCUMHDDAmvRWM0&dib_tag=se&keywords=Brave+New+Medicine&qid=1745008601&s=digital-text&sprefix=brave+new+medicine%2Cdigital-text%2C273&sr=1-1
The Nervous System Reset
https://www.amazon.com/Nervous-System-Reset-Regulate-Emotions-ebook/dp/B0CK8D3YCR

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Replies to "I am so sorry to hear what you're going through. This is far too much, and..."

I have not heard of a dysregulated nervous system before. Recently, my father has been considering POTS as a potential diagnosis. The symptoms of POTS are plausible, and my heart rate does increase by about 30 BPM just by standing up.

My diet and appetite are good. I don't tend to eat junky foods or sweets very often whatsoever. Water is my main beverage too.