[23F] Experiencing constant head and neck pain with visual disturbances

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

• Tension Headache: This is a common type of headache characterized by a constant, dull pain that often feels like a tight band around the forehead or at the base of the skull. It can be associated with tightness in the neck muscles. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, which you mentioned helps your pain, are often effective in treating tension headaches.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relief medication, stress management, and regular exercise.

• Migraine: Although you mentioned that this headache feels different from your usual migraines, migraines can sometimes present differently. They are typically characterized by severe, throbbing pain usually on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by visual disturbances (like the black spots you mentioned), sensitivity to light or sound, and nausea.

  • Treatment typically involves medication to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle changes to avoid triggers.

• Cervicogenic Headache: This is a type of headache that originates from disorders in the neck. It is often accompanied by neck pain and may worsen with certain neck movements or postures.

  • Treatment usually involves physical therapy, medication, and occasionally nerve blocks.

• Eye Strain: Long periods of reading, computer use, or any activity that requires intense focus can cause eye strain, which can lead to headaches and visual disturbances.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, changing your work habits, and sometimes prescription glasses.

What you can do

1. Try to rest and avoid activities that worsen your symptoms.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage your headache and neck pain.
3. Regular exercise and stretching can help prevent tension headaches and neck pain.
4. If you spend a lot of time reading or using a computer, take regular breaks to rest your eyes.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• A sudden, severe headache that's different from past headaches.
• A headache accompanied by a stiff neck, fever, confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties.
• A headache after a head injury.
• A headache that worsens despite rest and pain medication.

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.