[21F] With burning sensations in collar bones, hips, and back of head

Patient Description

A 21-year-old female has been experiencing sharp, stinging burning sensations in her collar bones, hips, and the back of her head for about five months. These sensations occur sporadically, about once every two weeks, and usually last only a few minutes. The burning sensation in her head can be triggered by exercise, but there are no other specific triggers or patterns. She hasn't tried any treatments or medications for this issue and hasn't experienced any recent injuries or trauma to the affected areas. Additionally, she has been experiencing a stinging headache behind her ears for the past week, which she rated as a 6 out of 10 in severity. This headache comes and goes quickly, and she hasn't found anything that helps to relieve it. She hasn't had headaches like this before. She hasn't experienced any numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, vision changes, dizziness, or balance problems. She also doesn't have a history of medical conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or other chronic illnesses. She uses alcohol and cannabis roughly once a month and typically eats one meal a day with snacks throughout the day. She has gained about 5 pounds recently and stopped taking birth control about three months ago, which has led to spotting but not a full period, along with some fatigue. Her recent blood tests showed no abnormalities. She is currently taking Aller-Tec (10 mg per day) for allergies and no other medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

Burning Sensations in Collar Bones, Hips, and Back of Head

  1. Nerve-related Issues: The sharp, stinging burning sensations could be related to nerve irritation or neuropathy. Conditions like peripheral neuropathy or nerve compression can cause such symptoms.
  2. Fibromyalgia: This condition can cause widespread pain and burning sensations in various parts of the body. It often presents with fatigue and can be triggered by stress or physical activity.

Stinging Headache Behind Ears

  1. Occipital Neuralgia: This condition involves irritation or injury to the occipital nerves, which run from the top of the spinal cord to the scalp. It can cause sharp, stinging pain behind the ears.
  2. Tension Headaches: These are common and can cause pain in various parts of the head, including behind the ears. They are often triggered by stress, poor posture, or muscle tension.

Fatigue and Spotting After Stopping Birth Control

  1. Hormonal Imbalance: Stopping birth control can lead to hormonal fluctuations, which might cause fatigue and irregular menstrual cycles, including spotting.
  2. Nutritional Deficiencies: Given your diet, it's possible that you might not be getting enough essential nutrients, which can contribute to fatigue.

What you can do

Burning Sensations

  • Nerve-related Issues:

    • Consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend nerve conduction studies or imaging tests.
    • Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
    • Gentle stretching and physical therapy might alleviate symptoms.
  • Fibromyalgia:

    • Consult a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. They may recommend medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
    • Regular low-impact exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help manage symptoms.
    • Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or yoga, can be beneficial.

Stinging Headache Behind Ears

  • Occipital Neuralgia:

    • Consult a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. They may recommend medications, nerve blocks, or physical therapy.
    • Applying warm compresses to the affected area can help relieve pain.
    • Gentle neck stretches and good posture can reduce strain on the occipital nerves.
  • Tension Headaches:

    • Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain.
    • Regular breaks from activities that strain your neck and shoulders, such as computer work, can help.
    • Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, can be beneficial.

Fatigue and Spotting

  • Hormonal Imbalance:

    • Consult a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and consider a hormonal evaluation.
    • Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support overall health.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies:

    • Consider consulting a nutritionist to ensure you're getting a balanced diet with sufficient vitamins and minerals.
    • Eating regular, balanced meals can help maintain energy levels and overall health.

What you should look out for

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical care for a thorough evaluation. Here are some reasons to seek care more urgently:

  • Severe or worsening pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter medications.
  • New or worsening symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, or changes in vision.
  • Persistent fatigue that interferes with your daily activities.
  • Irregular menstrual cycles or other hormonal symptoms that persist.

Remember, while I can provide some guidance, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. You can also use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.

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3 mo ago


People Also Ask


What could be causing the sharp, stinging burning sensations in various parts of my body?

The sharp, stinging burning sensations could be due to nerve-related issues such as nerve irritation or neuropathy, or conditions like fibromyalgia, which causes widespread pain and burning sensations.


What are the possible reasons for experiencing a stinging headache behind my ears?

A stinging headache behind the ears could be caused by occipital neuralgia, which involves irritation of the occipital nerves, or tension headaches, which are often triggered by stress or muscle tension.


How can stopping birth control lead to fatigue and spotting?

Stopping birth control can lead to hormonal imbalances, which might cause symptoms like fatigue and irregular menstrual cycles, including spotting. These changes are due to the body's adjustment to the absence of synthetic hormones.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms like burning sensations and headaches?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage these symptoms include regular low-impact exercise, stress management techniques like mindfulness or yoga, maintaining good posture, and ensuring a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.


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