[34F] Experiencing headaches and intermittent chest heaviness

What might be happening

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

• Tension Headache: This is the most common type of headache and can be triggered by stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, or skipping meals. The pain is often described as a constant band-like pressure around the forehead or back of the head and neck.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers such as ibuprofen which you are already taking. Other treatments include stress management, regular exercise, and ensuring you get enough sleep and hydration.

• Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. It can be accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes nausea. However, you didn't mention these symptoms.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks. Lifestyle changes like regular sleep, meals, and exercise can also help.

• Caffeine Withdrawal: If you consume caffeine regularly and then suddenly stop, it can lead to a headache. However, you mentioned that you drink coffee every day, so this is less likely unless you've recently reduced your caffeine intake.

  • Treatment involves gradually reducing caffeine intake rather than stopping abruptly.

The heavy feeling in your chest is a bit more difficult to explain, especially without pain or breathing difficulties. It could be related to stress or anxiety, especially if it's associated with your headaches. However, chest discomfort can sometimes indicate a serious condition like heart disease, especially in the context of risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or a family history of heart disease.

What you can do

1. Continue to take ibuprofen as needed for your headaches, but try not to exceed the recommended dosage. Overuse can actually lead to more headaches.
2. Try to identify any triggers for your headaches, such as stress, lack of sleep, skipping meals, or certain foods or drinks. Avoiding these triggers can help prevent headaches.
3. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, eat balanced meals at regular times, stay hydrated, and get regular exercise.
4. Monitor your caffeine intake. If you think it might be contributing to your headaches, try gradually reducing your intake.
5. Pay attention to your chest heaviness. If it becomes more frequent or severe, or if it's associated with other symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, or pain, seek medical attention immediately.

What you should look out for

• A sudden, severe headache like a "thunderclap"
• Headache associated with fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizure, double vision, weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking
• Headache after a head injury
• A chronic headache that is worse in the morning
• New headache in someone over 50

Please remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history to provide a diagnosis and treatment plan.