Help my mom is sick. how do i help her?

Question #20030

142 days ago

338

Help my mom is sick. how do i help her? - #20030

mom

my mom has been suffering from lack of sleep everyday. she sleeps like 4-5 hours everyday. she has severe headache for like 2-3 years now. she also has been taking epitra for like 1-2 years almost everyday. now in recent 2-3 days she has more headache than before and she says she doesnt like watching facebook or any stuff. she hasnt even been eating properly. she is 39 years old. no seizures, no high blood pressure

Age: 39

Chronic illnesses: Mental health problem

Help mom

300 INR (~3.53 USD)

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Doctors' responses

Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

141 days ago

Hello dear
I think probably there is some anxiety or internal health issues.
Please get following tests done for confirmation
Brain USG
Serum ferritin
Eye check up
Serum bradykinin
Eeg
Emr
Ct scan brain
Please share the result with neurologist in person for better clarity
Regards

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Dr. Nirav Jain

I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.

141 days ago

Hello, I understand your worry. But this needs proper evaluation by a certified Physician or a Psychiatrist. Kindly visit one and do not take any medicine by online prescription.
Feel free to reach out again.
Regards,
Dr. Nirav Jain
MBBS, DNB D.Fam.Medicine

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Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

140 days ago

It seems like your mom is experiencing a mix of symptoms that might be worsening: ongoing headaches, sleep deprivation, and a shift in mood, such as loss of interest in activities and changes in appetite. The medication you mentioned, Epitra, is often prescribed for epilepsy to manage seizures, but it’s also used in some cases for mood disorders or other neurological issues. However, it’s crucial to note that using it long-term without proper monitoring can sometimes lead to side effects affecting mood, sleep, or headache patterns. Considering the increased severity of her headaches and the drastic changes in mood and behavior, it’s important to reevaluate her current condition with a healthcare provider. The worsening of symptoms and significant impact on daily life, like disrupted sleep and eating habits, could signify an underlying condition that needs to be reassessed or managed differently. A consultation with a neurologist or a specialist in headaches might be necessary to explore potential causes, evaluate any medication-induced issues, and reassess her current treatment plan. It’s advisable to document specific changes in her symptoms, like frequency and intensity, to aid the healthcare provider during the evaluation. Additionally, some lifestyle adjustments might help: ensuring a regular sleep schedule, limiting screen time before bed can assist if sleep is affected, and encouraging small, frequent meals if she’s struggling with appetite—these small steps may help, but they shouldn’t replace professional medical advice. If there’s any sudden change like a very severe headache, visual disturbances, or neurological complaints, immediate medical attention is warranted.

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Dr. Arsha K Isac

I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.

142 days ago

Hello,
She has been taking Epitra (clonazepam) almost daily for 1–2 years, which can cause dependence, withdrawal headaches, mood changes, and worsening mental health.
The symptoms together suggest worsening mental health and possibly medication overuse / benzodiazepine dependence, and she needs medical review soon.
Do NOT stop Epitra suddenly → risk of withdrawal and seizures.
See a psychiatrist urgently (within 1–2 days).
Go to Emergency immediately if she has
sudden severe “worst headache”
vomiting, fever, neck stiffness
weakness, speech/vision changes
confusion or fainting
Suicidal thoughts
Support meanwhile
Be with her emotionally, encourage small frequent meals, quiet regular sleep, reduce caffeine.
Thank you

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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat

I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.

141 days ago

Hello
I’m sorry to hear about your mother’s struggles with sleep and headaches. Given her symptoms—chronic headaches, reduced interest in activities, and changes in appetite—it’s important to consider a few factors:
Possible Concerns
1. Medication Side Effects: Epitra (which contains lamotrigine) can sometimes cause headaches or fatigue. If she’s been on it for a long time, it might be worth discussing with her doctor about reviewing her medication.
2. Sleep Deprivation: Chronic lack of sleep can exacerbate headaches and lead to mood changes. Four to five hours of sleep is generally insufficient for most adults.
3. Mental Health: The lack of interest in activities and changes in eating habits could indicate underlying anxiety or depression, especially if she’s been experiencing headaches for a long time.
Recommendations
1. Consult a current Doctor: It’s crucial for her to see a healthcare professional to evaluate her headaches, review her current medications, and discuss her sleep issues. They may suggest imaging studies or other tests to rule out any underlying conditions.
2. Sleep Hygiene: Encourage her to establish a regular sleep routine:
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
- Create a calming bedtime environment (dim lights, quiet space).
- Limit screen time before bed.
3. Diet and Hydration: Ensure she is eating balanced meals and staying hydrated, as dehydration can worsen headaches. Simple, nutritious foods like khichdi, dal, and fruits can be helpful.
4. Stress Management: Gentle activities like yoga or meditation can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
Next Steps
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of her headache patterns, sleep quality, and any other changes in mood or appetite.
- Follow Up: If her headaches worsen or she experiences new symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
- visit to a current doctor or visit nearby neurologist for better evaluation…
Thank you

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Dr. Shayeque Reza

I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.

141 days ago

Your mom’s long-standing daily headaches, poor sleep, long-term use of Epitra, and recent worsening with loss of appetite and interest are warning signs that need prompt medical evaluation. This is not safe to manage at home. She should see a doctor (preferably a neurologist and psychiatrist) as soon as possible, and go to urgent care immediately if symptoms suddenly worsen or new symptoms appear. You are doing the right thing by seeking help.

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