[33F] Experiencing nausea and headache with other symptoms

Patient Description

A 33-year-old female presents with a 4-day history of nausea, rated at a severity of 5 out of 10, which worsens after eating. The patient also reports a headache with a pressure sensation in the front of the head, rated at a severity of 5 out of 10, occurring on and off over the last 2 days. Accompanying symptoms include sensitivity to smell, fatigue, and gas. The patient has taken a pregnancy test which was negative. There is no mention of any interventions that relieve the nausea. The frequency of such headaches in the past is not known.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Migraine: Migraines are a type of headache characterized by moderate to severe pain that is throbbing or pulsing. The pain is often on one side of your head. You might also feel nauseous and be sensitive to light and sound.

    • Treatment typically involves pain relievers, rest in a dark, quiet room, and staying hydrated.
  • Gastroenteritis: Also known as the stomach flu, this condition can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can be caused by a viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and eating bland foods when you can tolerate them.
  • Pregnancy: Even though you mentioned that a test was negative, it's worth noting that early pregnancy can cause nausea (often called "morning sickness"), fatigue, and heightened sense of smell. If there's a chance you could be pregnant, it might be worth retesting in a week or two.

  • Anxiety or Stress: These can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

    • Treatment involves stress management techniques and, in some cases, medication.

What you can do

  1. Try to rest and stay hydrated. This can help with both headaches and nausea.
  2. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen can help with the headache. For the nausea, you might try an antacid or bismuth subsalicylate.
  3. If you're under a lot of stress, try some relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
  4. If your symptoms persist or worsen, make an appointment to see your doctor.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your headache is severe and sudden.
  • You have a fever, stiff neck, or rash.
  • You're unable to keep down fluids due to constant vomiting.
  • You have severe abdominal pain.
  • You see blood in your vomit or stool.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are common symptoms of migraines and how can they be managed?

Common symptoms of migraines include moderate to severe headache pain, often on one side of the head, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Management typically involves pain relievers, resting in a dark, quiet room, and staying hydrated.


How can I differentiate between gastroenteritis and other causes of nausea?

Gastroenteritis often presents with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes fever. It can be differentiated from other causes by the presence of these symptoms, especially if they follow exposure to contaminated food or water. Rest, hydration, and bland foods are recommended for management.


Can a negative pregnancy test be inaccurate, and when should I retest?

A negative pregnancy test can sometimes be inaccurate, especially if taken too early. It's advisable to retest in a week or two if menstruation hasn't started and symptoms persist.


What are some effective ways to manage stress-related physical symptoms?

Effective ways to manage stress-related symptoms include practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. Regular physical activity and ensuring adequate sleep can also help reduce stress.


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