[53F] With persistent headache, fatigue, and dizziness

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some potential causes for your symptoms:

• Tension Headache: This is a common type of headache that can cause a dull, aching pain and a feeling of tightness or pressure around your forehead or the sides and back of your head. It can be triggered by stress, poor posture, or muscle tension.

  • Treatment typically includes over-the-counter pain relievers, stress management techniques, and improving posture.

• Migraine: Given your history of migraines, it is possible that this could be a prolonged migraine episode. Migraines can cause severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by nausea, dizziness, and sensitivity to light and sound.

  • Treatment may involve prescription medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle changes to avoid triggers.

• Medication Overuse Headache: Frequent use of pain relief medications like Advil can sometimes lead to rebound headaches.

  • Treatment involves reducing or stopping the use of the overused medication under medical supervision.

• Hypothyroidism: Since you have hypothyroidism, it's possible that your symptoms could be related to your thyroid hormone levels being out of balance.

  • Treatment involves adjusting your thyroid medication dosage, which should be done under the guidance of your healthcare provider.

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): High blood pressure can sometimes cause headaches and dizziness.

  • Treatment involves managing your blood pressure through medications, diet, and lifestyle changes.

• Vestibular Disorders: Conditions affecting the inner ear can cause dizziness and balance issues.

  • Treatment may involve vestibular rehabilitation therapy and medications.

What you can do

While you should definitely consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take in the meantime:

1. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting their frequency, duration, and any potential triggers. This information can be very helpful for your doctor.
2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen headaches and dizziness. Make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day.
3. Practice Stress Management: Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and gentle yoga can help reduce stress and muscle tension.
4. Limit Pain Relievers: Try to limit the use of over-the-counter pain relievers to avoid medication overuse headaches.
5. Check Your Blood Pressure: If you have a home blood pressure monitor, keep track of your readings and share them with your doctor.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention more urgently if you experience any of the following:

• Sudden, severe headache that feels different from your usual headaches
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
• High fever or stiff neck
• Confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness
• Sudden vision changes, weakness, or numbness
• Worsening symptoms despite taking measures to alleviate them

Remember, while this information can be helpful, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.