[41F] Experiencing severe, patterned headaches with abdominal discomfort

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible conditions that could explain 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 last for hours to days, and the pain can be so severe that it interferes with your daily activities.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relieving medications and preventive medications.

• Orthostatic Hypotension: This is a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down. It can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded, and maybe even faint. An unusually rapid heart rate (tachycardia) can also accompany these symptoms.

  • Treatment often starts with simple lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol, drinking plenty of fluids, and standing up slowly.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus, causing upper abdominal discomfort and nausea.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some general recommendations based on your symptoms:

1. Keep a headache diary: This can help you identify triggers for your migraines, such as certain foods, smells, stress, and lack of sleep. Avoiding these triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines.
2. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can cause low blood pressure and exacerbate symptoms of migraines and GERD. Aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.
3. Stand up slowly: This can help manage symptoms of orthostatic hypotension.
4. Avoid foods that trigger acid reflux: These can include fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.

What you should look out for

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

• Sudden, severe headache or headache accompanied by confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, or unexplained sweating
• Vomiting blood or black material, or passing black stools

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in order to provide a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.