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Nervous System Disorders
Question #20757
45 days ago
102

different headache - #20757

Tanmay

I am trying to figure out why I have been having a different headache that feels way off compared to what I usually get. It started like two weeks ago, right after I had this crazy stressful week at work. I would usually get tension headaches, but this different headache is more like this pressure in the back of my head and sometimes it goes to my temples. It’s a dull ache mostly, but kinda sharp at times?? I also noticed some nausea with this different headache, which has never really been a part of my headache experience before. I've been drinking water and trying to sleep it off but it doesn’t seem to help much. I even took some ibuprofen, which usually works for my tension headaches, but this time it barely touched it. I don’t know if I should be more worried or if this is common?? Could it be something serious or just stress making it worse? I read a bit online and saw opinions about different headache types, like migraines or cluster headaches, but not really sure if this really fits either of those. Anyone else dealt with a different headache that came outta nowhere like this? What should I do?

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Doctors' responses

Given the change in characteristics of your headache, it’s important to consider a few possibilities that could be causing this new pattern. The description of pressure in the back of the head, extending to the temples, along with nausea, suggests this could be a type of migraine, even if it’s not something you’ve experienced before. While migraines often include nausea, the skipped effectiveness of usual tension headache remedies like ibuprofen aligns with migraine characteristics. Migraines can sometimes be triggered by stress, a lack of sleep, or other lifestyle factors, which might correspond to your recent stressful week. That said, there are red-flag symptoms that require further assessment - such as new-onset headaches that differ significantly from past experiences, or any headache accompanied by neurological symptoms like visual changes, weakness or confusion. Cluster headaches are another type characterized by severe, often unilateral pain around the eye or temple, but given your description of mostly dull pressure, they appear less likely.

To address this, consider visiting a healthcare provider, especially if the headaches persist or worsen. They may recommend keeping a detailed headache diary, noting the frequency, duration, and intensity, which can aid in diagnosis. In the meantime, try to identify any possible triggers such as certain foods, dehydration, or irregular sleeping patterns, and aim for regular sleep and adequate hydration. Stress management techniques like mindfulness or yoga might also prove helpful. If over-the-counter medication isn’t effective, a doctor might explore other treatment options like triptans for migraines. If there’s concern about something more serious, your provider may suggest imaging studies to rule out any underlying issues. Don’t delay seeking medical evaluation if the headache becomes severe or is paired with additional concerning symptoms.

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