[50F] Experiencing severe headaches and sharp stomach pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Migraines: Migraines are a type of headache characterized by intense, throbbing pain, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light or sound. Your description of your headache as throbbing and severe, and the fact that you have a history of migraines, suggests this could be a possibility. However, you mentioned this headache feels different from your usual migraines, so it's important to consider other possibilities as well.

  • Treatment for migraines often involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes to help manage the symptoms and prevent future attacks.

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasites. Symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. However, you did not mention having diarrhea or vomiting, so this may be less likely.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to help manage symptoms.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause sharp pain in the center of the stomach. However, gastritis is usually accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating.

  • Treatment for gastritis usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid, and dietary changes.

• Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore on the lining of your stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. A peptic ulcer can cause sharp stomach pain, but it's usually felt in the upper abdomen, not the center. Other symptoms can include bloating, heartburn, and nausea.

  • Treatment for peptic ulcers usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid, and in some cases, antibiotics to treat a Helicobacter pylori infection.

What you can do

You should definitely see a doctor about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to help manage your symptoms:

1. Rest and stay hydrated. This can help manage your headache and stomach pain.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with your headache. However, be sure to follow the package instructions and do not exceed the recommended dose.
3. Avoid foods that irritate your stomach. These can include spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine.
4. Try to eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

• If your headache or stomach pain becomes severe or unbearable
• If you notice blood in your stool or vomit
• If you develop a high fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
• If you have difficulty breathing or chest pain
• If your symptoms do not improve or worsen over the next few days

Remember, I am an AI and this advice is based on the information you provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in person.