[18F] Experiencing severe headache with eye pain and memory issues

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Migraine: A severe headache often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances such as blurriness or seeing lines. Migraines can sometimes cause cognitive symptoms like difficulty finding words or remembering things.

  • Treatment typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers, rest in a dark, quiet room, and staying hydrated. Prescription medications are also available if over-the-counter treatments are not effective.

• Tension headache: A common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching sensation all over the head. It is often described as a feeling of a tight band or dull ache around the head or behind the eyes. These are often related to stress, depression, or anxiety.

  • Over-the-counter treatments such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen might be helpful.

• Sinusitis: Inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses that can lead to headaches, toothache, and pressure around the eyes. It can also cause fever, fatigue, and cognitive impairment.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, over-the-counter pain relievers, and decongestants. Antibiotics may be necessary if a bacterial infection is suspected.

• Cluster headache: A rare type of headache that is marked by severe, debilitating pain on one side of the head, often around the eye. Cluster headaches can also cause red or watering eyes, nasal congestion, and a sense of restlessness or agitation.

  • Treatment typically involves prescription medications to reduce the severity and frequency of the headaches.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've described, and not a definitive diagnosis. You should seek immediate medical attention to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

1. Continue taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed on the package, but do not exceed the recommended dosage.
2. Rest in a dark, quiet room.
3. Stay hydrated.
4. Avoid activities that worsen your headache.
5. Keep track of your symptoms and anything that seems to make them better or worse. This will be useful information for your doctor.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your headache suddenly becomes severe and is unlike any headache you've had before.
• You have a headache accompanied by a high fever (>101.5°F), stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking.
• Your headache gets worse over 24 hours.
• You have a headache after a head injury, especially if the headache gets worse.
• You have chronic, long-term headaches and they're getting worse or they occur along with other symptoms, such as loss of sensation or weakness in any part of your body.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in person.