[22F] Experiencing headache, facial pressure, and ear fullness

Patient Description

A 22-year-old female presents with a one-day history of headache, described as an aching pain located on the left side of the head, rated as 5/10 in intensity. The headache is persistent and not triggered by any specific activity. Additionally, the patient reports pressure-like facial pain between the eyebrows and near the nose, with a sudden onset today. The patient also experiences a sensation of ear fullness, described as if the ears are popped. No relief measures have been effective for the facial pain. The patient has a history of similar headaches.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

  • Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. It can cause pain and pressure in the face, which might explain the pain between your eyebrows and near your nose. It can also cause headaches and a feeling of fullness in your ears.

    • Treatment usually involves managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications, using a humidifier, and staying hydrated. If symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen, you should see a healthcare provider who may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments.
  • Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by moderate to severe pain that is throbbing or pulsing and often on one side of the head. Other symptoms can include sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea.

    • Treatment involves pain relieving medications and other specific migraine medications. Lifestyle modifications such as stress management, regular sleep and meals, and avoidance of known triggers can also help.
  • Tension Headache: This is a common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching sensation all around the head. It is often described as a feeling of a tight band around the head or pressure at the temples or back of the head.

    • Treatment usually involves pain relievers. Stress management techniques may also help.

What you can do

  1. Rest and hydrate: Make sure you're getting enough sleep and drinking plenty of fluids.
  2. Over-the-counter pain relievers: These can help with the headache and facial pain.
  3. Warm compress: Applying a warm compress to the painful areas on your face may help relieve the pain.
  4. Avoid triggers: If you notice that certain foods or activities worsen your headache, try to avoid them.

What you should look out for

  • If your symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen, you should see a healthcare provider.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking. These could be signs of a more serious condition.

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

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of sinusitis?

Common symptoms of sinusitis include facial pain or pressure, nasal congestion, headache, a feeling of fullness in the ears, and sometimes a reduced sense of smell. It may also be accompanied by a cough or sore throat.


How can I differentiate between a migraine and a tension headache?

Migraines are typically characterized by moderate to severe throbbing pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Tension headaches, on the other hand, usually involve a dull, aching sensation all around the head, often described as a tight band or pressure.


What are some effective home remedies for sinusitis?

Effective home remedies for sinusitis include staying hydrated, using a humidifier, applying warm compresses to the face, and using saline nasal sprays. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage symptoms.


When should I seek medical attention for a headache?

You should seek medical attention for a headache if it persists for more than a week, worsens, or is accompanied by severe symptoms such as high fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking.


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