[34F] Experiencing sharp headache with vomiting and tingling in hands

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. It can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can be triggered by various factors including stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, and lack of sleep.

  • Treatment for migraines often involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.

• Tension headache: This is the most common type of headache, often described as a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck. They can be triggered by stress, lack of sleep, poor posture, or eye strain.

  • Treatment usually involves over-the-counter pain relievers, stress management techniques, and lifestyle changes.

• Cluster headache: This is a rare type of headache that occurs in cyclical patterns or clusters. It's one of the most painful types of headache, with intense burning or piercing pain behind or around one eye, and it can be accompanied by tearing, redness, or swelling of the eye on the affected side, a runny or stuffy nose, and restlessness.

  • Treatment involves medications to decrease the severity of the headache, as well as preventive medications to reduce the frequency and duration of the headaches.

• Trigeminal neuralgia: This is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain. It causes extreme, sporadic, sudden burning or shock-like facial pain that lasts anywhere from a few seconds to as long as 2 minutes per episode.

  • Treatment usually involves medications, injections, or in some cases, surgery.

• Secondary headaches: These are headaches that are symptoms of another health disorder. They can be caused by a variety of conditions, including sinus infection, brain tumor, or problems with the blood vessels in the brain. The fact that your headache is worsened by coughing or laughing (which increases pressure in the head) could be a sign of a secondary headache.

  • Treatment involves addressing the underlying condition.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other diagnoses are also possible.

What you can do

You should seek immediate medical attention given the severity and sudden onset of your symptoms. It's important to get a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, try to rest and stay hydrated. Avoid any known headache triggers, if possible.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• A sudden, severe headache like a thunderclap
• A headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or speaking difficulties
• A headache after a head injury, especially if the headache gets worse
• A chronic headache that is worse after coughing, exertion, straining or a sudden movement
• New headache pain if you're over 50

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 professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.