[31F] Experiencing persistent headaches post-abdominoplasty

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

• Postoperative Headache: This is a common occurrence after surgery. It can be due to a variety of factors such as the after-effects of anesthesia, stress, or the body's response to the surgical procedure. The fact that your headache started a couple of days after your abdominoplasty surgery suggests this might be the case.

  • Treatment typically involves pain management with over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol, which you're already taking. Rest and hydration are also important.

• Sinusitis: Given your history of sinus issues, it's possible that your current headache is related to a sinus infection, especially since you're experiencing pain behind your nose and eyes. However, sinus headaches are typically accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pressure, or a runny nose.

  • Treatment often involves antibiotics, nasal decongestants, and pain relievers.

• Medication Overuse Headache: This type of headache can occur from overuse of pain medications, including over-the-counter drugs like Tylenol. However, this is less likely if you've been using the medication as directed.

• Tension Headache: This is a common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching sensation all over the head. It's often described as a feeling of a tight band around the forehead or at the back of the head and neck. Your description of a throbbing headache and neck stiffness could suggest a tension headache.

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

What you can do

1. Continue to take your prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.
2. Rest and stay hydrated.
3. Apply a warm compress to your forehead or the back of your neck.
4. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to help reduce stress and tension.
5. Keep a headache diary to track your symptoms, triggers, and the effectiveness of treatments.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your headache suddenly becomes severe or is the worst headache you've ever had.
• You have a headache along with a high fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties.
• You have a headache after a head injury, especially if the headache gets worse.
• Your headache is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, or other worrying symptoms.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.