What are the other ways to get relief from papilledema instead of steroids?
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I was diagnosed with papilledema after suffering from bad headaches. So, I was on steroids and drinking glycerine to reduce the swelling of my optic nerve. But now I am again having headaches that mostly affect the right side of my head. As my pain is terrible, I try to reduce it by using ice packs to numb it, but it does not seem to work. And I am not willing to take steroids again as they already have disturbed my health. I have also undergone MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) for headaches. So, please help by telling me what else I can do to ease the pain and reduce the swelling of my optic nerve.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your case. But initially, we need to find the underlying cause of the papilledema. Here are my opinions:
- Your blood pressure needs to be checked. If the blood pressure is high, then start taking anti-hypertensive medicines.
- If any infection is also present, then antibiotics are required.
- If a brain tumor is there, then start the treatment accordingly, but it requires an MRI (magnetic resonace imaging) scan.
- An indirect ophthalmoscopy examination is also required.
- And if there is optic disc edema, steroids are required to reduce it.
I think you should consult a retina specialist or an ophthalmologist for a better examination.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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