[36F] Son with headache, seizure, and fever

Patient Description

A 36-year-old female reports that her son experienced a gradual onset headache at the back of his head, described as throbbing with an intensity of 10 out of 10. Approximately two hours after the headache began, he had a seizure and developed a fever. This was the first occurrence of such a headache. The child has had two seizure episodes in total, with all test results negative for viral or infectious causes. There is a family history of epilepsy. The headache was relieved by Children's Motrin. The child also experienced sensitivity to sound but no visual disturbances, nausea, or sensitivity to light. There is no history of head injuries or recent travel to areas with infectious disease outbreaks. The child has no known allergies and is not currently on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Tension Headache: This is a common type of headache that can cause a throbbing sensation at the back of the head. It can be triggered by stress, poor posture, or muscle tension. Tension headaches are usually not associated with other neurological symptoms like seizures.

    • Treatment typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and lifestyle modifications to reduce stress and improve posture.
  • Migraine: Migraines can cause severe, throbbing headaches and are sometimes accompanied by sensitivity to sound. While migraines are less commonly associated with seizures, they can occur in individuals with a family history of neurological conditions.

    • Treatment may include prescription medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future episodes, as well as lifestyle changes to identify and avoid triggers.
  • Secondary Headache: Given your son's recent seizure and fever, it's important to consider that your headache could be secondary to an underlying condition, such as an infection or other neurological issue. However, since your son's tests were negative for infections, this is less likely.

    • Further evaluation by a healthcare professional is recommended to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

What you can do

  1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: It's important to seek medical advice to determine the cause of your headache and to rule out any serious conditions, especially given the family history of epilepsy.
  2. Symptom Management: Continue using over-the-counter pain relievers like Children's Motrin as needed, but be cautious about the frequency and dosage.
  3. Lifestyle Modifications: Consider stress-reduction techniques, such as relaxation exercises, yoga, or meditation, to help manage tension headaches.
  4. Track Your Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track any changes, and share this information with your healthcare provider for a more comprehensive evaluation.

What you should look out for

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as changes in vision, difficulty speaking, weakness, or confusion, seek medical care promptly.
  • Monitor for Recurrence: Keep an eye on any recurring headaches or other neurological symptoms, and report them to your healthcare provider.
  • Family History Considerations: Given the family history of epilepsy, it's important to discuss this with your healthcare provider to determine if any further evaluation or monitoring is needed.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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1 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of a throbbing headache at the back of the head in children?

Common causes of a throbbing headache at the back of the head in children include tension headaches, which can be triggered by stress or muscle tension, and migraines, which may also cause sensitivity to sound.


Can a headache be related to seizures in children?

While headaches are not typically directly related to seizures, both can occur in individuals with neurological conditions. It's important to consult a healthcare professional to explore any potential connections, especially with a family history of epilepsy.


What should I do if my child experiences a severe headache and a fever?

If your child experiences a severe headache and a fever, it's important to seek medical attention to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage symptoms, but a healthcare professional should evaluate the situation.


How can family history of epilepsy affect my child's health?

A family history of epilepsy can increase the likelihood of similar conditions in children. It's important to discuss this with a healthcare provider to determine if further evaluation or monitoring is necessary.


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