[21F] Experiencing daily migraines, forgetfulness, and sensitivity to sound

Patient Description

A 21-year-old female has been experiencing daily migraines for several months, described as intense pain radiating from the neck to the back of the head, worsened by lying down and triggered by loud noises or excessive head movement. Additionally, she reports constant forgetfulness, particularly with recent conversations, and sensitivity to sound, rating it 6-7 out of 10, exacerbated by loud talking or yelling. She has been suffering from back pain, rated 7-8 out of 10, and neck pain, rated 5 out of 10, since the birth of her daughter two years ago. The patient was diagnosed with anemia in 2021 following childbirth but is not currently on any medication and reports no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possibilities:

  • Migraines: Given your description of intense, daily headaches that are sensitive to loud noises and movement, migraines could be a possibility. Migraines are a type of headache characterized by severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head. It's often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.

    • Treatment for migraines often involves pain-relieving medications and preventive medications. Your healthcare provider can help you come up with a treatment plan that works best for you.
  • Tension headaches: Your description of pain that originates from your neck and radiates to the back of your head could also suggest tension headaches. These are often associated with muscle contractions in the head and neck region, and can be triggered by poor posture, stress, or lack of sleep.

    • Over-the-counter pain relievers, stress management, and physical therapy are common treatments for tension headaches.
  • Anemia: Your forgetfulness and sensitivity to sound could be related to your anemia. Anemia can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating.

    • Treatment for anemia usually involves taking iron supplements and eating iron-rich foods.
  • Musculoskeletal pain: Your back and neck pain could be due to musculoskeletal issues, possibly related to posture or physical strain. This is especially possible given that your pain seems to worsen with certain positions.

    • Physical therapy, pain relievers, and exercises to improve posture and flexibility can help manage musculoskeletal pain.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided, and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

  1. Consult with a healthcare provider: They can provide a formal assessment, order relevant tests if necessary, and help you come up with a treatment plan.
  2. Keep a headache diary: Note when your headaches start and stop, any triggers, the intensity of the pain, and any accompanying symptoms. This can help your healthcare provider diagnose your condition and determine the best treatment.
  3. Manage stress: Stress can trigger headaches and make pain worse. Techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help manage stress.
  4. Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet: This is especially important given your anemia. Include iron-rich foods in your diet, such as red meat, leafy green vegetables, and iron-fortified cereals.
  5. Regular exercise: This can help manage stress, improve your mood, and strengthen your muscles, potentially reducing musculoskeletal pain.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • A sudden, severe headache like a thunderclap
  • Headache with fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties
  • Headache after a head injury
  • A chronic headache that is worse after coughing, exertion, straining, or a sudden movement
  • New headache pain if you're over 50

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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8 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common triggers for migraines and how can they be managed?

Common triggers for migraines include stress, lack of sleep, certain foods, hormonal changes, and sensory stimuli like loud noises or bright lights. Managing these triggers involves identifying and avoiding them, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and possibly using medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider.


How can anemia contribute to symptoms like forgetfulness and sensitivity to sound?

Anemia can lead to symptoms like forgetfulness and sensitivity to sound due to reduced oxygen supply to the brain, which can affect cognitive function and increase sensitivity to sensory inputs. Treating anemia typically involves iron supplements and dietary changes to increase iron intake.


What are some effective treatments for tension headaches?

Effective treatments for tension headaches include over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation, and physical therapy to address muscle tension and improve posture.


How can musculoskeletal pain in the neck and back be alleviated?

Musculoskeletal pain in the neck and back can be alleviated through physical therapy, exercises to improve posture and flexibility, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes such as ergonomic adjustments at work or home. Regular exercise and stress management can also help reduce pain.


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1 Comments


Madelyn#4031

8 mo ago

This sounds like occipital neuralgia, which is a headache triggered by injury/inflammation of the occipital nerves that run from the back up your neck up and around the back of your skull. If you tap at the base of your head and feel the headache get worse, this is very likely the case. Treatments beyond physical therapy and heat packs may include steroid or botox injections to calm down the nerves. If you can get a consult with a neurologist that might be best

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