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What Causes Refractory Headaches?

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Posted on Thu, 5 Jun 2014
Question: Hello, I have consulted doctors on- healthcare magic over my concerns throughout the last month. Following a virus several weeks ago I have suffered daily headaches varying in intensity. I have noticed one spot at the top of my head on the right side is reoccurring. My headaches do not follow any specific pattern but are persistent over the course of several weeks. Sometimes they are there on waking other times it will be during the day or the evening. I would not describe the pain as debilitating, more a dull pain, occasionally a stabbing pain on the top of my head. During the time I had the virus I began having arm twitching or legs moving involuntarily. I know these movements may be classed as seizures, however I would not describe them typically in that way. In fact when I am distracted or busy I do not seem to have these body movements at all.my headaches do not feel like pressure, nor have I had any visual, hearing or other disturbances. I had a neurological exam with two separate doctors both said no problems were noted. Also through eye exam no swelling was visible. Blood work was clear and so was a urine exam. My headaches do not worsen with movement, coughing, bending down etc. I have however had a few dizzy spells but this is not new to me. I have not noted nausea as such but when eating larger meals felt bloated. I have noticed I've had trouble placing the occasional word lately but I'm not sure if it is because I have read this is a symptom and its psycho somatic? My blood pressure was also exactly as it should be. I do not feel any confusion, irritability or mood swings-just worry. In the past I have convinced myself I've had serious conditions which have turned out to be nothing at all, but I know the headaches are very real. I have been to my GP a couple of weeks ago but she did not order a ct or mri scan. I intend to visit her again as my symptoms have not subsided. I have a 5 yr old daughter and a 6 yr old son and I'm terrified I have a brain tumour, and they will not have their mummy around. Yesterday I made a conscious effort to consume more water and had no headaches through the day but despite doing the same today the headaches returned. Could this be dehydration? I drink slot of caffeinated drinks, and normally a very small amount of water. this whole situation is causing me extreme distress. I would really like another opinion. Pls advise me on this subject. Many thanks. XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Sweta Singla (6 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Refractory Headaches are common in anxious

Detailed Answer:
I am sure your headaches are real and they are troubling you but what is actually troubling you is your anxiety. And anxiety is many a times associated with refractory headache syndrome. Another thing important is that you are taking caffeinated drinks more than water which will dehydrate you and cause further more anxiety. Please stop taking caffeine and drink more water. Also you may take painkillers on a twice daily basis for 3 days and further on take it on SOS basis. Meanwhile start doing some meditation and deep breathing exercises, watch less TV, you may start some mild exercise program. I think taking care of your anxiety will decrease your headaches.

I am available just a click away for a follow up. Work on my measures and I am sure you will find a pain free time.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Sweta Singla (10 hours later)
Thank you for your reply. I just wanted to add that last night, this morning and this evening I have actually felt a little nausea. Would this in addition to the before mentioned symptoms be a concern to you or change your original opinion? I don't doubt that I am stressed and have anxiety I just thought I should let you know about the nausea in case it made a difference. Thanks again,XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Sweta Singla (4 days later)
Brief Answer:
please relax. best part is you are okay.

Detailed Answer:
Please relax. Having nausea is a non specific symptom and does not influence my diagnosis.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Sweta Singla

Neurologist

Practicing since :2003

Answered : 74 Questions

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What Causes Refractory Headaches?

Brief Answer: Refractory Headaches are common in anxious Detailed Answer: I am sure your headaches are real and they are troubling you but what is actually troubling you is your anxiety. And anxiety is many a times associated with refractory headache syndrome. Another thing important is that you are taking caffeinated drinks more than water which will dehydrate you and cause further more anxiety. Please stop taking caffeine and drink more water. Also you may take painkillers on a twice daily basis for 3 days and further on take it on SOS basis. Meanwhile start doing some meditation and deep breathing exercises, watch less TV, you may start some mild exercise program. I think taking care of your anxiety will decrease your headaches. I am available just a click away for a follow up. Work on my measures and I am sure you will find a pain free time.