What Causes Left-sided Headache, Heaviness In Ear And Left Leg Weakness?

Posted on Sun, 31 Jul 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 31 Jul 2016 Answered on

Mon, 22 Aug 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi
I have headache on my left back side which continues to above ear, heaviness in ear, my left leg is weak and I feel I will fall at times. This condition has been for over 11 years. My GP has treated for migraine but of no help. Now I am feeling like I am shaking and cant concentrate at times, forget even between words, sharp pain in left eye, or overall my left side is weak. I feel light headedness most of the times, nausea at times.

My right side is completely fine.

I have slightly elevated cholestrol level for which I am taking a very mild dose.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Neurological consultation and brain imaging.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your query and understand your concerns.

In my opinion, besides getting treated about migraine headaches, since there is no improvement and new symptoms that indicate nervous system involvement, a neurological examination and brain imaging ( MRI ) are necessary to get a correct diagnosis.

Brain conditions such arteriovenous malformations, benign tumors ( since you refer a long period of symptoms ) such acoustic neurinoma, meningioma etc. should be considered and excluded.

Discuss with a Neurologist or Neurosurgeon about your concerns.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (1 hour later)

Thank you Dr. Erion

I had a MRI done in 2006 which showed no sign of any dangers at that time.

My mum at the age of 79 had a benign tumor and within 12 months it grew to a golf ball size. That was successfully removed and she is alright since then.

I forgot to mention I also feel my tongue is swollen, have swollowing difficulties, and my lips seems to be swollen as well and the inside of my mouth is red. No bleeding.

I have been to my dentist to have my teeth cleaned just in case there was tartar build-up but not much.

Recently I had my eyes checked at a Specialist Centre as I am seeing dual images at times, hollow images at times. They didn't find anything wrong behind the eyes.

I do have Tinnatus but its not that severe - manageable during the day and no difficulties sleeping.

If you could draw some highlight on this information as well.

Kind regards

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (13 hours later)

Brief Answer:
2006 MRI is too old.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back.

Thanks for the additional information.

MRI done in 2006 is too old to be considered as appropriate regarding to your current health status, so, I still think that MRI of brain and neurological evaluation are necessary to conclude.

Hope I helped you so far.

Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj