[40F] Experiencing persistent headache, bloating, and fatigue

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are some possible conditions:

• Tension Headache: This is the most common type of headache and can cause a constant ache and pressure around your head, especially at your temples or back of your head and neck. It can be triggered by stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, or skipping meals.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers, stress management, and lifestyle changes.

• Migraine: Migraines are severe headaches that can cause throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. They can also cause sensitivity to light and sound, and changes in vision. However, migraines are usually accompanied by nausea or vomiting, which you have not reported.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers and preventive medications.

• Hormonal changes: In women, fluctuations in hormones can trigger headaches. This can occur during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, or with the use of birth control pills.

• Gastrointestinal issues: Your bloating and fatigue could be related to a variety of conditions, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or gastrointestinal infections.

  • Treatment typically involves dietary changes, stress management, and sometimes medications.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also explain your symptoms.

What you can do

1. Keep a headache diary: Note when your headaches start, any potential triggers, the duration of the headaches, any changes in vision, and what provides relief.

2. Make lifestyle changes: Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, staying hydrated, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.

3. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve headache pain.

4. Monitor your diet: Pay attention to what you eat and how it affects your bloating. This can help identify any food intolerances or triggers.

5. Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet: This can help manage your fatigue and bloating.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• A sudden, severe headache like a thunderclap
• Headache with fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties
• Headache after a head injury
• Chronic, progressive headache that's worse in the morning
• New headache pain if you're over 50

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.