Post-Fever Right Brain Pain: Neurological Symptoms

After a fever, there may be sharp pain in the right side of the brain?

Three days ago in the afternoon, I started experiencing a headache.
I initially thought it was just due to fatigue from work and that resting would help.
The next day, the pain intensified, so I took a pain reliever, but it did not improve.
Later that night, I developed additional symptoms including fever, general weakness, dizziness, and a sore throat.
I intended to see a doctor the following day, but it seemed that due to sweating during the night, the fever subsided and the symptoms eased, so I decided not to seek medical attention, thinking I was on the mend.

However, this morning I noticed that whenever I stand up or sit down too quickly, or make any sudden movements, I experience sharp pain in my right hemisphere.
The pain worsens with larger movements but subsides quickly.
I would like to know if there might be an issue with my right hemisphere or if this could simply be a lingering effect of my cold.
Thank you, doctor!

Zi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/24

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, your symptoms are very similar to cervical myofascial pain syndrome, which clinically presents as pain at the affected site, discomfort, muscle stiffness, or a feeling of heaviness.
Symptoms often worsen in the morning upon waking or with changes in weather, but can be alleviated with stretching activities, and they tend to recur frequently.
During acute episodes, there may be local muscle tension and spasms, leading to restricted movement.
It is recommended that you consult with a rehabilitation specialist or a neurologist to discuss examination and treatment options.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Best regards, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Neurology.

Reply Date: 2017/05/24

More Info

Your symptoms suggest a complex interplay between neurological issues and post-viral effects, particularly following your recent fever and flu-like symptoms. The fact that your headache began after a period of illness, accompanied by fever, fatigue, and throat pain, raises the possibility of a post-viral syndrome or even a secondary headache disorder.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that headaches can be categorized into primary and secondary types. Primary headaches, such as migraines or tension-type headaches, are not caused by another medical condition. In contrast, secondary headaches are symptomatic of other underlying issues, such as infections, inflammation, or even structural problems in the brain.

Given your recent fever and flu-like symptoms, it’s plausible that your headache could be a secondary headache resulting from viral infection. Viral illnesses can lead to inflammation in the body, including the meninges (the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord), which can cause headaches. This type of headache is often described as a dull, persistent pain that may worsen with movement or changes in position, which aligns with your experience of increased pain when standing up or making sudden movements.

The right-sided pain you’re experiencing could also suggest involvement of the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing. If there’s irritation or inflammation affecting this nerve, it could lead to sharp, shooting pains in the head. This is particularly relevant if you have experienced any neck stiffness or discomfort, as cervical issues can also contribute to headaches.

Moreover, your description of the pain being exacerbated by sudden movements could indicate a form of postural headache or even a tension-type headache, which is often triggered by stress or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. The fact that the pain subsides after a brief period suggests that it may not be a severe underlying issue, but rather a reaction to your body’s current state of recovery from illness.

It’s also worth noting that the sweating you experienced during the night could indicate that your body was fighting off an infection, which is a normal response. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out any serious conditions, especially if there are any neurological deficits or if the headache pattern changes.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to the aftermath of a viral infection, it’s essential to monitor them closely. If you experience any new symptoms, such as visual disturbances, persistent vomiting, confusion, or if the headache becomes severe and unrelenting, you should seek immediate medical evaluation. In the meantime, maintaining hydration, resting, and possibly using over-the-counter pain relief as needed may help manage your symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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