[38M] Experiencing severe headache, nausea, and hot flashes

Patient Description

A 38-year-old male reports a severe headache with a throbbing sensation behind the eyes and the back of the neck, which started about an hour ago. The headache intensifies with movement but temporarily subsides when repositioning the head. The patient also experiences sudden and intense hot flashes, alternating between feeling hot and cold. Additionally, there is a sense of pressure behind the eyes linked to the headache, and a significant weakness that hinders the ability to stand, rated as an 8 on a severity scale of 1-10. The patient has no known allergies, is not on any medications, and has no history of chronic illnesses or recent injuries.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head. It's often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can cause significant pain for hours to days.

    • Treatment typically includes pain relievers, triptans (medications that block pain pathways in the brain), and preventive medications (for frequent migraines).
  • Cluster Headache: These are severe headaches that occur in clusters or cyclical patterns. They are marked by intense pain behind or around one eye, and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as facial flushing, sweating, and eye watering.

    • Treatment options include oxygen therapy, triptan medications, and preventive medications.
  • Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, which can result in symptoms such as pressure behind the eyes, headaches, and fever.

    • Treatment typically includes antibiotics, nasal decongestants, and pain relievers.

Please note that these are only possible causes. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

While waiting for a medical appointment, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

  1. Rest and hydrate: Make sure you're getting enough sleep and staying hydrated. This can help alleviate some of your symptoms.
  2. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with the headache.
  3. Cool compress: Applying a cool compress to your forehead or the back of your neck may help reduce headache pain.
  4. Avoid triggers: If you notice certain foods or activities worsen your symptoms, try to avoid them.

What you should look out for

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

  • Sudden, severe headache or a headache that is accompanied by a stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties.
  • Headache after a head injury, especially if the headache gets worse.
  • A chronic headache that is worse in the morning, accompanied by vomiting or behavior changes.
  • Difficulty walking or staying balanced.

Remember, I am an AI and this advice is based on the information you provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a migraine?

Common symptoms of a migraine include severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head, nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.


How can I differentiate between a migraine and a cluster headache?

A migraine typically involves throbbing pain and may be accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light, while a cluster headache is characterized by intense pain around one eye, often with facial flushing and eye watering. Cluster headaches occur in cyclical patterns or clusters.


What are some effective home remedies for managing severe headaches?

Effective home remedies for managing severe headaches include resting in a dark, quiet room, applying a cool compress to the forehead or neck, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for a headache?

You should seek immediate medical attention for a headache if it is sudden and severe, accompanied by a stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, speaking difficulties, or if it occurs after a head injury and worsens.


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