[27F] Experiencing mild nausea and severe headache

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Tension Headache: This is the most common type of headache and can be triggered by stress, lack of sleep, or skipping meals. It's typically described as a dull ache or pressure around the forehead or back of the head and neck.

  • Treatment usually involves over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, and stress management.

• Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. It can be accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Lack of sleep can be a trigger for migraines.

  • Treatment can involve a combination of medications and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and prevent future attacks.

• Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS): Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches and nausea.

  • Treatment can involve lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.

• Dehydration: Lack of adequate fluid intake can lead to dehydration, which can cause headaches, nausea, and lightheadedness.

  • Treatment involves rehydrating by drinking fluids and avoiding dehydration in the future.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also be causing your symptoms.

What you can do

1. Try to get regular, adequate sleep. Lack of sleep can trigger headaches and other symptoms.
2. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially water.
3. Eat regular, balanced meals. Skipping meals can trigger headaches.
4. Limit screen time, especially in brightly lit conditions, as this seems to worsen your nausea.
5. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage your headache. However, they should be used sparingly and only as directed.
6. Regular exercise and stress management techniques, such as deep breathing or yoga, can help manage tension headaches and PMS symptoms.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your headache is severe and sudden, like a "thunderclap".
• You have a headache along with a fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizure, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking.
• Your headache gets worse over time or is not relieved with rest or over-the-counter medications.
• You have a headache after a head injury.

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, diagnosis, and treatment.