[23M] Experiencing severe headache with visual disturbances and neck stiffness

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Migraine: A severe headache often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can cause intense throbbing or a pulsing sensation in one area of the head and commonly last from hours to days. The flashes of light you're seeing could be related to an aura, which some people experience before a migraine.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relieving and preventive medications.

• Sinusitis: Inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. This could explain your nasal congestion and headache.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, over-the-counter remedies, and in some cases, antibiotics.

• Tension headache: A common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching sensation all around your head. It's often described as feeling like a tight band around your forehead or at the back of your head. This could be related to your stiff neck.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers, stress management, and physical therapy.

• Meningitis: An inflammation of the membranes surrounding your brain and spinal cord. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Your stiff neck, headache, and difficulty concentrating could be symptoms of this condition.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics and hospitalization.

Please remember that this is not a comprehensive list and other conditions could also explain your symptoms.

What you can do

Given the severity of your headache and the presence of other concerning symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, seeing spots, and neck stiffness, it is important that you seek immediate medical attention. Please go to the nearest emergency department or call an ambulance.

In the meantime, try to rest in a quiet, dark room and stay hydrated. Over-the-counter pain relievers may provide some relief, but it's important not to rely on them for long-term management without seeing a doctor.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your headache suddenly becomes severe and is unlike any headache you've had before
• You have a fever, stiff neck, or rash
• You have difficulty speaking, seeing, walking, or balancing
• You have a seizure
• You experience a sudden, severe headache along with a stiff neck, fever, nausea, vomiting, or altered mental state

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I am an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.