[45F] Experiencing severe headache, high fever, and back pain
Patient Description
Show More
Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possibilities:
-
Meningitis: This is an infection of the membranes surrounding your brain and spinal cord. Symptoms can include severe headache, fever, confusion, neck stiffness, and sensitivity to light. Given the severity of your symptoms, this is a possibility that should be evaluated urgently.
- Treatment typically involves antibiotics and sometimes antiviral medications. Hospitalization is often required.
-
Encephalitis: This is inflammation of the brain, often due to an infection. Symptoms can be similar to meningitis and can also include seizures, though you have not reported any.
- Treatment usually involves antiviral medications and supportive care, such as pain relievers and fever reducers, in a hospital setting.
-
Severe Migraine: Migraines can cause severe, debilitating headaches and can sometimes be accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. However, your high fever and confusion are not typical of a migraine.
- Treatment usually involves medications to relieve symptoms and, in some cases, preventive medications.
Please note that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've described and not a definitive diagnosis. It's crucial to seek immediate medical attention given the severity of your symptoms.
What you can do
Given the severity of your symptoms, especially the severe headache, high fever, and changes in mental status, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. Please go to the nearest emergency department or call for an ambulance if you are unable to transport yourself safely.
What you should look out for
Watch out for any worsening of your symptoms, such as:
- Increasing confusion or difficulty staying awake
- Seizures
- Severe neck stiffness or pain when bending your neck forward
- Any new symptoms
Remember, it's important to get medical help right away. Please don't delay seeking care.
Show More
Save
9 mo ago