[23M] Experiencing severe, persistent headache and fever

Patient Description

A 23-year-old male reports a severe, pulsating headache that has persisted for 12 hours, worsening with screen exposure, talking, or looking at bright lights. The headache is described as all-encompassing but primarily located at the front and sides of the head. The patient has not found relief from any interventions and has never experienced a headache of this nature before. Additionally, the patient reports a sensation of overall body warmth with specifically cold feet, which improved slightly after 2-3 hours. The patient also mentions a sore throat but no neck stiffness, rash, nausea, vomiting, changes in vision, or confusion. There has been no weakness or difficulty speaking.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

  • Migraine: Migraines are a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain usually on one side of the head. They can be accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes nausea. The fact that you're experiencing a pulsating, severe headache that gets worse with screen time or bright light could suggest this.

    • Treatment typically involves pain-relieving medications and preventive measures such as avoiding triggers and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
  • Fever and Infection: Your symptoms of a severe headache, body feeling hot, and cold feet could indicate a fever. The fact that you also mentioned sneezing and a sore throat may suggest an upper respiratory infection.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms. If symptoms persist or worsen, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medications.
  • Tension Headache: This is a common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching sensation all around the head. It's often described as a tight band around the head or pressure at the temples or back of the head.

    • Treatment typically involves pain-relieving medications and stress management techniques.

What you can do

  1. Rest and stay hydrated. This can help your body recover if you're dealing with an infection.
  2. Try over-the-counter pain relievers for your headache, following the instructions on the package.
  3. Avoid bright lights and screens as much as possible, as these can worsen your headache.
  4. Monitor your symptoms. If they persist or worsen, seek medical attention.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • A sudden, severe headache like a thunderclap
  • A headache accompanied by a high fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or speaking difficulties
  • A headache after a head injury, especially if the headache gets worse
  • A chronic headache that is worse after coughing, exertion, straining or a sudden movement

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

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a migraine?

Common symptoms of a migraine include severe, throbbing pain usually on one side of the head, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes nausea or vomiting. The pain can be exacerbated by physical activity, bright lights, or loud noises.


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

A migraine typically presents with severe, throbbing pain and sensitivity to light and sound, often on one side of the head. A tension headache, on the other hand, usually causes a dull, aching sensation all around the head, often described as a tight band or pressure around the temples or back of the head.


What should I do if my headache is accompanied by a fever and sore throat?

If your headache is accompanied by a fever and sore throat, it could indicate an infection such as an upper respiratory infection. It's important to rest, stay hydrated, and consider over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for a headache?

You should seek immediate medical attention for a headache if it is sudden and severe like a thunderclap, accompanied by a high fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties, or if it occurs after a head injury and worsens.


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