[30F] Experiencing throbbing headache with tenderness and sound sensitivity

Patient Description

A 30-year-old female reports experiencing a throbbing pain in the lower back left side of her head, which is painful to touch and worsens when opening her mouth. The headache pain is rated as a 5 out of 10 in severity. The pain intensifies when getting up from a lying position, turning her head to the right, or bending down to pick something up from the floor. Over-the-counter migraine medication provides some relief, but the headache persists. This is the first occurrence of such a headache, lasting for four consecutive days. Additional symptoms include sensitivity to sound and tenderness behind the ear and above the hairline on the neck. The headache began upon waking one morning, and certain sleeping positions have become uncomfortable.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations:

  • Occipital Neuralgia: This condition involves irritation or injury to the occipital nerves, which run from the top of the spinal cord to the scalp. It can cause sharp, throbbing pain at the base of the skull, tenderness, and sensitivity to sound. Movements like turning your head or getting up can exacerbate the pain.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and pain, physical therapy, and sometimes nerve blocks or injections.

  • Tension Headache: Often caused by muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, tension headaches can lead to pain at the base of the skull and around the head. They can also cause tenderness and sound sensitivity.

    • Treatment includes over-the-counter pain relievers, stress management techniques, and physical therapy to relieve muscle tension.

It's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, especially since this is a new and persistent headache for you.

What you can do

While you wait to see a healthcare provider, here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:

  1. Rest and Relaxation: Try to rest in a comfortable position that doesn't exacerbate your pain. Gentle neck stretches and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, may help reduce tension.

  2. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Continue using over-the-counter migraine medication as needed, but follow the recommended dosage instructions.

  3. Apply Heat or Cold: Applying a warm compress or ice pack to the affected area may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

  4. Track Your Symptoms: Use the MDandMe app to journal your symptoms, track any changes, and note any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe or worsening headache pain
  • Changes in vision or neurological symptoms, such as weakness or numbness
  • Fever or signs of infection
  • Any new or concerning symptoms

Remember, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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2 d ago

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People Also Ask

What is occipital neuralgia and how is it treated?

Occipital neuralgia is a condition where the occipital nerves, which run from the top of the spinal cord to the scalp, become irritated or injured. This can cause sharp, throbbing pain at the base of the skull, tenderness, and sensitivity to sound. Treatment often includes medications to reduce inflammation and pain, physical therapy, and sometimes nerve blocks or injections.

How can I differentiate between a tension headache and other types of headaches?

Tension headaches are often caused by muscle tension in the neck and shoulders and can lead to pain at the base of the skull and around the head. They are characterized by a dull, aching sensation and can cause tenderness and sound sensitivity. Differentiating them from other headaches, like migraines, involves noting the absence of symptoms like nausea or visual disturbances, which are more common in migraines.

What are some effective home remedies for managing headache pain?

Effective home remedies for managing headache pain include resting in a comfortable position, using over-the-counter pain relievers as directed, applying a warm compress or ice pack to the affected area, and practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. Gentle neck stretches can also help relieve tension.

When should I seek medical attention for a persistent headache?

You should seek medical attention for a persistent headache if you experience severe or worsening pain, changes in vision or neurological symptoms like weakness or numbness, fever or signs of infection, or any new or concerning symptoms. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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[34F] With dull headache and neck pain for a week

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