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Suggest Treatment For Constant Headache And Neck Stiffness

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Posted on Thu, 8 Oct 2015
Question: I was seen at My Dr 9/15 for a headache, neck pain/stiffness and arm numbness approaching 3 weeks. I was given a shot of Toradal and Kenalog and waited 1.5 hrs to see if there was any relief. No relief, so she sent me to the ER where i was given additional IV Toradal with no relief. I was then given .5 mg of Dilaudud with approx 15 mins of relief, then another.5 1.5 hrs later and then discharged. The exam performed was an eye pressure check and strength check of my limbs.

It is now 2 days later and I am unable to get into my Dr until next week and unable to see a neurologist until approved by insurance.

I understand headaches are not emergent, nor do the ER docs seem to be amused or interested in patients being seen for such. I have Ibuprofen, Norco, Baclofen and Valium prescribed to take at home at this time. ANy suggestions? I cannot do this headache another day.

Past history: Brain Trauma/Swelling 8/2001 as well as neck injury MVA

Also, no vomiting, no aura, pain is at base of neck and travels to forehad, both sides.
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (42 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
First combination ibuprofen with valium.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your query and understand your concerns.

In my opinion, your headaches are more probably caused by occipital neuralgia, a condition where upper cervical nerves that supply back and top of the head, are damaged and/or compressed during their pathway.

This possibility is supported by past neck trauma, nature and distribution of the pain.

Another possibility is tension type headache, the most common headache encountered.

You should discuss with your Doctor about this diagnosis and further testing.

In mean time, I would recommend using ibuprofen 3-4 times a day (400 mg each take) and valium 2 times a day (5 mg each take).

If no satisfactory symptoms relief after a couple of days, next combination should be Norco 4 times a day (7.5/325 mg each take) and baclofen 3 times a day (10 mg each take).

Rest and warm procedures on your neck 3-4 times a day, should help also improving symptoms.

Hope this helps. Let me know if I could assist you further.

Wishing you good health.
Note: For further follow-up it is advisable to consult an emergency medicine specialist. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4502 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Constant Headache And Neck Stiffness

Brief Answer: First combination ibuprofen with valium. Detailed Answer: Hello and thanks for using HCM. I have read your query and understand your concerns. In my opinion, your headaches are more probably caused by occipital neuralgia, a condition where upper cervical nerves that supply back and top of the head, are damaged and/or compressed during their pathway. This possibility is supported by past neck trauma, nature and distribution of the pain. Another possibility is tension type headache, the most common headache encountered. You should discuss with your Doctor about this diagnosis and further testing. In mean time, I would recommend using ibuprofen 3-4 times a day (400 mg each take) and valium 2 times a day (5 mg each take). If no satisfactory symptoms relief after a couple of days, next combination should be Norco 4 times a day (7.5/325 mg each take) and baclofen 3 times a day (10 mg each take). Rest and warm procedures on your neck 3-4 times a day, should help also improving symptoms. Hope this helps. Let me know if I could assist you further. Wishing you good health.