[74F] Experiencing severe headache when coughing or bending down

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Sinusitis: Even though you mentioned your nose is not blocked, sinusitis can sometimes present with a headache without significant nasal symptoms. The pain is usually located around the forehead, temples, and behind the eyes.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, over-the-counter pain relievers, and sometimes antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected.

• Tension Headache: These are common and can be triggered by stress, anxiety, or strain. The pain is often described as a constant ache that affects both sides of the head, as you described.

  • Treatment usually involves over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, and stress management techniques.

• Primary Cough Headache: A type of headache triggered by coughing and other types of straining—such as sneezing, blowing your nose, laughing, crying, singing, bending over, or having a bowel movement.

  • Treatment may involve medication to reduce the frequency or severity of headaches.

• Secondary Cough Headache: A more serious disorder that can be caused by problems within the brain. It's important to rule this out.

  • Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause.

What you can do

1. Continue taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed on the packaging. Avoid taking more than the recommended dose.
2. Rest and stay hydrated.
3. Avoid activities that seem to trigger your headaches, such as bending over or straining.
4. Keep a headache diary, noting when your headaches occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This can be helpful information for your doctor.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• A sudden, severe headache like a thunderclap
• Headache with a fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties
• Headache after a head injury, especially if the headache worsens
• A chronic headache that is worse in the morning, worsens with exertion, awakens you from sleep, or is associated with vomiting

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care.