[51F] Experiencing severe, throbbing headache and nausea
Question
Patient Description
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:
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Migraine: 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 of migraines often involves medications to help reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent future attacks.
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Tension headache: This is the most common type of headache, and its cause is not well understood. The pain is often described as a constant band-like pain around the head, a tightness, or a pressure. Tension headaches are not typically associated with other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or light sensitivity.
- Treatment of tension headaches is usually with over-the-counter pain relievers. However, if these headaches are frequent, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relievers.
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Medication overuse headache: This type of headache occurs when medications stop relieving pain and begin to cause headaches. You're at risk of these types of headaches if you use more than a certain amount of headache medication for more than a few days in a week.
- Treatment involves reducing or stopping the medication that's causing these headaches. You should speak with your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.
What you can do
- Try to rest and relax. If possible, rest in a dark, quiet room.
- Place a cool cloth or ice pack on your forehead or the back of your neck.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid activities that worsen your headache.
- Keep a headache diary. Note when your headaches start, what you were doing at the time, how long they last and what, if anything, provides relief. Over time, a pattern may emerge.
What you should look out for
Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:
- If your headache is sudden and severe
- If your headache is accompanied by a fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or speaking difficulties
- If your headache gets worse over days and changes in pattern
- If your headache is following a head injury
Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am an AI and not a doctor. You should consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.
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7 mo ago