[21F] With sharp, severe headache in right temple

What might be happening

Based on the information you’ve provided, the sudden onset of a severe, sharp headache in your right temple that has persisted for three days and is worsened by loud sounds could be caused by one of the following:

1. Thunderclap Headache: This is a sudden and severe headache that can feel like a stabbing pain. While some thunderclap headaches are benign, they can also be a sign of a serious condition, such as bleeding in the brain (subarachnoid hemorrhage) or other vascular issues. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate evaluation.

2. Migraine: Although migraines are typically associated with throbbing pain, they can sometimes present as sharp, localized pain. Sensitivity to loud sounds is a common symptom of migraines. However, the sudden onset and severity of your headache make this less likely without further evaluation.

3. Trigeminal Neuralgia: This condition causes sharp, stabbing pain in the face or temple area and can be triggered by stimuli like loud sounds. However, it is less likely in your case since this is your first episode and the pain has been constant for three days.

4. Other Serious Causes: Conditions such as a brain aneurysm, meningitis, or a blood clot could also present with a sudden, severe headache. These are rare but serious and require immediate medical attention.

Because of the sudden onset, severity (10/10), and persistence of your headache, it is critical to rule out life-threatening causes.

What you can do

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: You should go to the emergency room or an urgent care center immediately. A sudden, severe headache like this needs to be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out serious conditions such as bleeding in the brain or other neurological issues. A CT scan, MRI, or lumbar puncture may be necessary to determine the cause.

2. Call 911 if Necessary: If you feel lightheaded, develop new symptoms (such as nausea, vision changes, or weakness), or if the pain becomes unbearable, call 911 or have someone take you to the hospital immediately.

3. Avoid Triggers: Stay in a quiet, dark room to minimize exposure to loud sounds or bright lights, which could worsen your symptoms.

4. Do Not Delay: Even if the pain feels manageable at times, the sudden onset and severity of your headache make it essential to get evaluated as soon as possible.

Please do not ignore these symptoms. It’s better to be cautious and have a healthcare professional rule out any serious conditions. Let me know if you need help preparing for your visit or understanding what to expect during your evaluation.