[33F] Experiencing toothache, headache, weakness, and dizziness

Patient Description

A 33-year-old female presents with a one-week history of a constant throbbing toothache localized to the wisdom tooth, accompanied by swelling around the tooth. The toothache worsens with eating. Additionally, she reports a new onset of headache for the past three days, described as a sensation of cold in the head with pain on the side and front, rated at a severity of 7 out of 10. She also feels weak and tired, preferring to rest, and rates her weakness as 6 out of 10. After work, she experienced a sudden onset of dizziness, characterized by lightheadedness and a spinning sensation, rated at a severity of 7 out of 10, along with neck stiffness. She has a history of low iron diagnosed 10 years ago and is allergic to penicillin but is not currently on any medications. There have been no recent dental procedures or known family history of migraines or similar headaches.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've provided, here are some possibilities:

  • Wisdom Tooth Infection or Impaction: Your constant, throbbing toothache and swelling around your wisdom tooth could be due to an infection or impaction (when a tooth is unable to fully emerge or align properly). This can also cause referred pain to the head and neck area, potentially contributing to your headache and neck stiffness.

    • Treatment typically involves pain management, antibiotics for infection, and often removal of the problematic wisdom tooth by a dentist or oral surgeon.
  • Tension Headache: Your description of a sensation of cold in the head and pain on the side and front of your head could be indicative of a tension headache, especially if it feels like a tight band around your forehead or at the back of your head.

    • Treatment typically involves pain relievers, stress management, and sometimes prescription medication for chronic cases.
  • Anemia: Your reported symptoms of weakness, tiredness, and dizziness could be related to your previously diagnosed low iron levels, a condition known as iron-deficiency anemia.

    • Treatment typically involves iron supplements and dietary changes to increase iron intake.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information provided and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Consult with a healthcare provider: Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it would be best to seek medical attention. This is particularly important for your toothache, as untreated dental infections can lead to more serious complications.

  2. Over-the-counter pain relief: Non-prescription pain relievers may help alleviate your toothache and headache in the short term. However, they should not be used as a substitute for seeking medical attention.

  3. Hydration and rest: Ensure you're drinking plenty of fluids and getting enough rest. This can help manage your symptoms of weakness and tiredness.

  4. Iron-rich diet: If your symptoms are related to low iron levels, eating a diet rich in iron may help. This includes foods like red meat, leafy green vegetables, and iron-fortified cereals.

What you should look out for

  • If your toothache or swelling worsens or spreads
  • If your headache intensifies or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, visual disturbances, or difficulty with balance or coordination
  • If your weakness or dizziness worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting

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

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1 yr ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection or impaction?

Common symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection or impaction include persistent throbbing pain, swelling around the affected tooth, difficulty opening the mouth, bad breath, and sometimes referred pain to the head or neck.


How can tension headaches be managed or treated?

Tension headaches can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, stress management techniques, regular physical activity, adequate hydration, and sometimes prescription medications for chronic cases. Relaxation exercises and maintaining good posture can also help.


What are the signs and symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia?

Signs and symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, cold hands and feet, and brittle nails. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.


What should I do if I have a penicillin allergy and need antibiotics for a dental infection?

If you have a penicillin allergy and need antibiotics for a dental infection, inform your healthcare provider. They can prescribe alternative antibiotics that are safe for you, such as clindamycin or azithromycin, depending on the specific infection and your medical history.


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