[37F] Experiencing headache, dizziness, and vomiting

Patient Description

A 37-year-old female has been experiencing a constant dull headache around the eyes, which has lasted all night and into the morning. The headache is currently rated at a 5 out of 10 in intensity. It is exacerbated by stressful social events, loud sounds, and cigarette smoke, with vomiting providing some relief. The patient also reports dizziness and has had episodes of vomiting associated with previous headaches. Additionally, there is a history of gradual onset of symptoms and recent difficulty speaking, but no changes in vision, fever, neck stiffness, or confusion. The patient has a past medical history of hyperthyroidism diagnosed 3 years ago. No known drug allergies or adverse reactions to medications have been reported, and the patient did not specify current medications for hyperthyroidism.

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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:

  • Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. It can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Stress, certain foods, and environmental factors can trigger migraines.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks. Lifestyle changes, such as stress management and avoiding triggers, can also help.
  • Tension Headache: This is the most common type of headache, often described as a constant band-like pain around the head. It can be associated with stress, lack of sleep, and eye strain.

    • Treatment usually involves over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, and stress management.
  • Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, often causing pain around the eyes and forehead, and can be associated with a headache.

    • Treatment typically involves managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications and rest. If symptoms persist, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Please note that these are potential explanations and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

Here are some suggestions to help manage your symptoms:

  1. Rest in a quiet, dark room.
  2. Stay hydrated, especially if you've been vomiting.
  3. Apply a warm or cold compress to your forehead or the back of your neck.
  4. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help. Be sure to follow the package instructions.
  5. Avoid known headache triggers, such as certain foods, alcohol, and stress.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • A sudden, severe headache like a thunderclap.
  • Headache with a fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or speaking difficulties.
  • Headache after a head injury, especially if the headache worsens.
  • 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 not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are common triggers for migraines and how can they be managed?

Common triggers for migraines include stress, certain foods (like aged cheese and processed meats), alcohol, caffeine, changes in sleep patterns, and environmental factors such as bright lights or strong smells. Managing migraines often involves identifying and avoiding these triggers, using medications to relieve symptoms, and implementing lifestyle changes like regular exercise and stress management techniques.


How can tension headaches be distinguished from other types of headaches?

Tension headaches are typically characterized by a constant, dull, band-like pain around the head, often associated with stress, lack of sleep, or eye strain. Unlike migraines, they usually do not involve nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. Tension headaches can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, and stress reduction techniques.


What are the symptoms of sinusitis and how is it treated?

Sinusitis involves inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, leading to symptoms such as pain around the eyes and forehead, nasal congestion, and sometimes a headache. Treatment usually includes over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms, and in some cases, antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present. Rest and hydration are also important.


When should someone seek immediate medical attention for a headache?

Immediate medical attention for a headache is necessary if it is sudden and severe, like a thunderclap, or if it is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking. Additionally, if a headache occurs after a head injury or is worse with coughing, exertion, or sudden movements, it is important to seek medical care.


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