What Causes Severe Headaches When Diagnosed With Horner's Syndrome?

Posted on Mon, 24 Apr 2017

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

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 Answered on

Mon, 15 May 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello, I am a 42 year old male. I've been diagnosed with Horner's syndrome. The issue has become what is causing it. I've been experiencing headaches on a daily basis in my forehead area for over a month. I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease, then I was told the other two tests said it came back negative for Lyme. I've been extremely lethargic, moody and my short term memory has been a tad off too. This weekend I had the worst headache I've ever experienced. It overtook my entire head. If I wasn't out of town I would of went to the ER. The last two days I've started to experience a tingling sensation over the tops of my hands as well. I have been taking Doxycycline for the Lyme the last 2 weeks and I haven't improved. I have also had 2 MRI's done on my brain and neck and orbit. They came back ok but there was a small blemish that they saw which has led to a scheduled MRA exam in 4 days from now. I am living in a small community and was wondering whom I should ask to be referred to. I am at my wits end...only getting worse...searching for answers. Thank you in advance. XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (51 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Please see the detailed answer below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello! I have been through your question.

Related your concern you should know that Horner syndrome is the result of another medical problem, such as a stroke, tumor or spinal cord injury or infection near the base of the skull etc . In some cases, the cause of Horner syndrome cannot be identified and this is known as idiopathic Horner syndrome.

It is known that untreated Lyme disease and post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome" (PTLDS) can cause neurological complications, such as facial palsy(bell's palsy) and neuropathy that can explain your symptoms.
Furthermore I think that after your MRA result should meet an neurologist together with an ID specialist to conclude and to define better your diagnosis.

I hope my answer helps you.
I wish you a quick recovery.
Regards.

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

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (46 minutes later)

Thank you Dr. Dede....my only question is what is a ID specialist?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (4 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Infectious Diseases Specialist.

Detailed Answer:
Hello!You are welcome.

ID specialist is Infectious Diseases Specialist that usually takes care and treats patient with Lyme diseases and other infection.

Regards.

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad