HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Severe Headache?

default
Posted on Wed, 18 Oct 2017
Question: I am just back from a 7 day vacation - at high altitude - in XXXXXXX The last day I developed a bad "headache" that feels like the base of my skull and then the "lining" of my brain, moving up the back of my head, is "inflamed." Feels like it is throbbing and is especially painful try and sleep or to bend over. The worry is that these symptoms have continued for the past 48 hours since returning home (to sea-level). Any thoughts or suggestions? I have tried Ibupropen and that seems to help slightly for a few hours, but then returns.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Take pain killers

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have gone through your question and understand your concern.
There is a possibility of migraine headache which improves in 2-3 days.
Is there any vomiting, visual blurring or any weakness?
Second possibility may be cortical venous sinus thrombosis.
You can take pain killers twice daily for 1-2 days.
consult a doctor if symptoms persists.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Do get back to me for further information.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Neeraj Kumar (22 minutes later)
No, I have not had any vomiting, visual issues or weakness. Just the headache/throbbing from the base of my neck and up the back of my head.

What, exactly, is cortical venous sinus thrombosis?

I have had these symptoms for 3 full days - and 48 hours since returning home. Can I expect improvement without treatment - and/or how long should I give it to see?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (12 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Take treatment as advised

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
If the pain is decreasing then it should improve in a day or two.
Cortical venous sinus thrombosis is obstruction of blood venous channels of brain which can be due to high altitude visit. Since all other features are absent, it is unlikely.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Neeraj Kumar (43 minutes later)
OK, thank you. I will continue pain medications and hope for improvement!
doctor
Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (11 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Wishing you good health

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Wishing you good health and early recovery.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Neeraj Kumar

Neurologist

Practicing since :2006

Answered : 2259 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes Severe Headache?

Brief Answer: Take pain killers Detailed Answer: Hello, I have gone through your question and understand your concern. There is a possibility of migraine headache which improves in 2-3 days. Is there any vomiting, visual blurring or any weakness? Second possibility may be cortical venous sinus thrombosis. You can take pain killers twice daily for 1-2 days. consult a doctor if symptoms persists. Hope you found the answer helpful. Do get back to me for further information. Regards Dr N Kumar Neurologist