[19F] Experiencing nausea, vomiting, and severe headache

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female presents with constant nausea rated at a severity of 5 out of 10, which started a few days ago and is exacerbated by smells, sitting up, walking around, and caring for her son. Rocking back and forth provides some relief. She also reports a constant headache with a severity of 7 out of 10, described as making her head feel swollen and heavy, located at the back of her head. The headache has been present for a few days and does not respond to medication. She has experienced similar headaches in the past. Additionally, she reports neck stiffness, a fever, and a slower response to being talked to, indicating a possible alteration in mental status. There is also a slight sensitivity to light. No other symptoms were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. It can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The exact cause of migraines is unknown, but they're thought to be the result of abnormal brain activity temporarily affecting nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels in the brain.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to help relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.
  • Tension Headache: This is the most common type of headache, characterized by a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck. It can also cause nausea, but it's less common.

    • Treatment usually involves pain relievers, stress management, and lifestyle changes.
  • Viral Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): This condition can cause nausea, vomiting, and a low-grade fever. It's usually caused by a viral infection.

    • Treatment involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to help with symptoms.
  • Meningitis: This is a serious condition that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding your brain and spinal cord. It can cause headaches, fever, neck stiffness, and sensitivity to light. It requires immediate medical attention.

    • Treatment involves antibiotics and hospitalization.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also be causing your symptoms.

What you can do

You should seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially considering the severity of your headache and the presence of a fever. In the meantime, try to rest and stay hydrated. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with your headache, but they should be used sparingly and only as directed.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • A sudden, severe headache that's different from past headaches
  • A headache accompanied by a high fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties
  • A headache after a head injury, especially if the headache gets worse
  • A chronic headache that is worse after coughing, exertion, straining, or a sudden movement

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of meningitis?

Common symptoms of meningitis include severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, nausea, vomiting, and altered mental status. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.


How can migraines be distinguished from other types of headaches?

Migraines are often characterized by severe, throbbing pain on one side of the head, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. They can be distinguished from other headaches by their intensity and the presence of these additional symptoms.


What are the typical treatments for viral gastroenteritis?

Typical treatments for viral gastroenteritis include rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter remedies to alleviate symptoms like nausea and fever. It's important to maintain fluid intake to prevent dehydration.


When should someone seek immediate medical attention for a headache?

Immediate medical attention for a headache is necessary if it is sudden and severe, different from past headaches, accompanied by high fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, or if it occurs after a head injury and worsens.


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