Hi My Name Is Cecil. Here Starting Last Friday I

Posted on Mon, 12 Nov 2018

Question: Hi my name is Cecil. Here starting last Friday I have been having these intense headaches. They start at the at the back of my head at the base of the skull on the sides and the pain spreads all over my head. I have tried recommended pain meds, but they don't work. I have tried ice packs and heating pads, but they don't work either. I have made an appointment with my primary care physician to see him tomorrow. Is there anything I can do to relieve the severe pain? No matter how I lay the pain will NOT cease and it gets so intense at times it is difficult to swallow.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Yogesh D (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
If the pain is so severe, it is better to go to the ER, check your BP.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to Ask A Doctor service.

I have gone through your query carefully and understand your concern.

Such severe headaches not responding to pain medications are usually due to vascular problems or high blood pressure.

Please check your blood pressure and see how it is.

Since you are experiencing such severe headaches, I would recommend you go the ER without delay and get yourself looked at.

If you do suffer from hypertension, and if the blood pressure is high, taking an extra dose of your antihypertensive is advisable for the time being.

I hope this will help you.

Wishing you speedy and complete recovery.

Best regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar