[21F] Experiencing daily severe headaches with associated symptoms

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, the following conditions are possible:

• Migraine: Migraines are a type of headache characterized by severe throbbing or pulsing pain, often on one side of the head. They can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can last for hours to days, and the pain can be so severe that it interferes with your daily activities.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to help relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks. Lifestyle modifications, such as stress management and avoiding certain foods, can also help.

• Tension Headache: This is the most common type of headache and is often described as a constant band-like pain around the head. It can be associated with stress, anxiety, or eye strain.

  • Treatment typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers, stress management techniques, and lifestyle changes.

• Cluster Headache: These are severe headaches that occur in clusters or cyclical patterns. They are characterized by sudden, debilitating pain on one side of the head, often around the eye.

  • Treatment involves medications to decrease the severity of the headache, as well as preventive medications.

• Meningitis: This is a serious condition involving inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It's usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms can include severe headache, fever, stiff neck, and nausea.

  • Treatment involves urgent medical attention and typically antibiotics if it's bacterial in nature.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms, but only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen can help with headache pain. However, they should be used sparingly, as overuse can lead to rebound headaches.

2. Rest and relaxation: Try to rest in a dark, quiet room. This can often help with migraine and tension headache symptoms.

3. Hydration: Make sure you're drinking enough fluids, as dehydration can contribute to headaches.

4. Avoid triggers: If certain foods or situations seem to trigger your headaches, try to avoid them.

5. Seek medical attention: Given the severity and frequency of your headaches, as well as your other symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your headache is sudden and severe
• You have a headache accompanied by a fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties
• Your headache gets worse over time
• You have a headache after a head injury

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.