[42F] Experiencing sharp facial pain and elevated blood pressure

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Temporal arteritis: This condition, also known as giant cell arteritis, is an inflammation of the blood vessels in and around the scalp. The most common symptoms are headache and tenderness over the temples. It's more common in individuals over 50, but it can occur in younger people.

  • Diagnosis usually involves a blood test to check for inflammation and possibly a biopsy of a small piece of the artery under the scalp.
  • Treatment typically involves high doses of a corticosteroid drug to reduce inflammation.

• Trigeminal neuralgia: This is a chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain. The pain is often described as a sudden, severe, sharp, and stabbing. It can be triggered by touch or activities such as speaking or brushing teeth.

  • Diagnosis is usually based on the person's description of the pain and by ruling out other causes of facial pain.
  • Treatment options include medications, nerve blocks, and in some cases, surgery.

• Tension headache: This is a common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching sensation all around your head. It's often described as a band squeezing the head. However, your description of a sharp, burning pain is less typical for tension headaches.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers, stress management, and physical therapy.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've described, and it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms. They may want to perform some tests or refer you to a specialist.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers may provide some temporary relief, but it's important not to exceed the recommended dosage.
3. Try to rest and avoid any activities that seem to make your pain worse.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Sudden, severe headache like a thunderclap
• Headache accompanied by fever, 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 after coughing, exertion, straining or a sudden movement
• New headache pain if you're over 50

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