[22F] Experiencing severe photophobia with headache, nasal congestion, and watery eyes

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, possible explanations include:

• Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain usually on one side of the head. It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light, sound, and smells, as well as nausea and vomiting.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve the symptoms and prevent future attacks. Lifestyle changes such as regular sleep, meals, and exercise can also help.

• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, often caused by an infection. Symptoms can include a headache, nasal congestion, and watery eyes.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms. If caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.

• 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 accompanied by a watery eye and nasal congestion on the same side.

  • Treatment involves medications to reduce the severity of the headache, as well as preventive medications to reduce the frequency and duration of the attacks.

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: Non-prescription medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve headache pain.
3. Avoid triggers: If you notice certain foods, activities, or situations trigger your headaches, try to avoid them.
4. Use a humidifier: This can help moisten your nasal and sinus passages and may relieve congestion.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments.
• You experience a sudden, severe headache like a "thunderclap".
• You have a fever, stiff neck, or confusion along with your headache.
• You have difficulty speaking, seeing, or moving.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.