[37F] Experiencing severe headache and loss of smell

Patient Description

A 37-year-old female presents with a severe, throbbing headache localized at the front of the head, persisting for 5 days, and a recent onset of loss of smell accompanied by numbness in the nose. The headache is described as a new occurrence for the patient, starting gradually and rated 9 out of 10 in severity. She also reports sharp, throbbing pain above and in the nose, weakness, and nausea. There is no history of recent injuries, known allergies, or other medications besides Levothyroxine. The patient has no past medical history of chronic illnesses or conditions.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possibilities:

  • Sinusitis: This is inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. It can cause headaches, facial pain, and loss of smell. It usually occurs after a cold or allergies.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers. If symptoms persist, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
  • 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 and sensitivity to light and sound.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers.
  • COVID-19: Loss of smell is a common symptom of COVID-19. Other symptoms can include headache, weakness, and nausea.

    • If you suspect you have COVID-19, you should get tested as soon as possible and isolate yourself from others.

What you can do

  • Rest and hydrate: This can help alleviate symptoms of sinusitis and migraines.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers: These can help alleviate headache and facial pain.
  • Get tested for COVID-19: If you suspect you have COVID-19, you should get tested as soon as possible and isolate yourself from others.

What you should look out for

  • Worsening symptoms: If your symptoms get worse or do not improve after a few days, you should seek medical attention.
  • Emergency symptoms: If you experience symptoms such as severe headache, fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, double vision, or trouble speaking, you should seek emergency medical attention.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of sinusitis?

Common symptoms of sinusitis include facial pain or pressure, nasal congestion, loss of smell, cough, and headache. It often follows a cold or allergies.


How can migraines be distinguished from other types of headaches?

Migraines are typically characterized by severe, throbbing pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. They can be distinguished from other headaches by their intensity and associated symptoms.


What should I do if I suspect I have COVID-19 due to loss of smell?

If you suspect you have COVID-19 due to loss of smell, you should get tested as soon as possible and isolate yourself from others to prevent potential spread.


When should I seek emergency medical attention for a headache?

You should seek emergency medical attention for a headache if you experience symptoms such as a sudden, severe headache, fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, double vision, or trouble speaking.


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