When Headache Is Not Just Headache: Two Years of Symptoms and the Value of Ophthalmic Awareness in Undiagnosed Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension - A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) can present with nonspecific symptoms such as chronic headache and dizziness, making diagnosis challenging and often delayed. Ophthalmologic evaluation plays a crucial role in identifying IIH and preventing irreversible visual damage.

CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of a young woman with a 2-year history of persistent headache and dizziness of unknown origin. She was subsequently diagnosed with previously unrecognized IIH following ophthalmic evaluation, including optical coherence tomography, fundus examination, and visual field testing. These findings prompted timely shunt placement, which resulted in marked recovery of the visual fields.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights the educational value of ophthalmologic awareness and the importance of integrating ocular findings into clinical decision-making, particularly in patients with chronic unexplained headache. It underscores the relevance of prompt initiation of therapy and, when necessary, invasive surgical intervention to prevent lifelong optic nerve damage and poor visual outcomes in a young population.