[28F] Experiencing headache, stuffy nose, and shoulder pain
Patient Description
A 28-year-old female presents with a 2-day history of a severe headache, described as pressure and throbbing located at the temples, with a pain severity of 8 out of 10. The headache is exacerbated by bending down and has not responded to any attempted relief measures. This is the first occurrence of such a headache, which started gradually. The patient also reports an achy pain at the top of the shoulders with a severity of 6 out of 10, ongoing for the same duration as the headache. There is no history of injury to the shoulder, and the patient also reports a stuffy nose. No other symptoms such as fever, neck stiffness, or changes in vision were reported.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:
- Tension Headache: This is a common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching sensation all over the head. It is often described as a feeling of a tight band or dull ache around the head or behind the eyes. These headaches are often related to stress, depression, or anxiety. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, can help relieve the pain.
- Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. It can cause headaches, stuffiness, and facial pain or pressure. This condition may be caused by an infection or allergies. Treatment often involves the use of over-the-counter remedies, but in severe cases, antibiotics may be necessary.
- Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by throbbing pain, usually confined to one side of the head, that tends to get worse with movement and can last from hours to days. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines are treated with various medications.
Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided and not a definitive diagnosis.
What you can do
Here are some general suggestions that might help:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Drugs such as ibuprofen can provide temporary relief for your headache.
- Rest and relaxation: Try to rest in a quiet, dark room. This can often help with the symptoms of a headache.
- Hydration: Make sure you're drinking enough fluids, as dehydration can often cause headaches.
- Heat or cold: Applying a warm cloth or ice pack to your head for 15 minutes may ease the pain.
- Avoid triggers: If certain foods or smells have triggered your headaches in the past, avoid them.
What you should look out for
You should seek immediate medical attention if:
- Your headache is severe and just started suddenly.
- You have a high fever along with your headache.
- You have sudden problems with speech, vision, movement, or balance.
- Your headache gets progressively worse over 24 hours.
- You have a history of cancer and develop a new headache.
Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and condition more accurately.
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10 mo ago