Headache issues
In the past two weeks, due to exam stress, I haven't eaten properly for about three days.
Since then, I've often felt a heavy sensation in my head, with pressure and even pain in my forehead and temples.
Occasionally, it gets severe enough to cause dizziness, making me feel like my head isn't my own.
I usually get less than 6 hours of sleep, and even though the stress has decreased somewhat, my headache hasn't improved.
I would like to know if this is due to excessive stress or if I might be ill.
Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/04
Dr. Li Zhenggang reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on the situation you described, since your headache continues to be a concern, I recommend that you visit a neurologist for evaluation and treatment.
Analyzing the cause of your headache, it seems to be tension-type headache due to increased stress recently, which typically alleviates once the stress decreases.
Therefore, you should first address the issue of stress.
For instance, if exams are causing you stress, you should engage in thorough preparation or develop strategies to cope with the exam results.
Of course, this is not an easy task, but I believe that as you gain more life experience, you will develop more coping mechanisms and emotional adjustment strategies.
It is important to learn to confront and manage stressful situations rather than avoid them.
In addition to enhancing your ability to handle stress, you can also cultivate some stress-relief techniques or maintain good lifestyle habits.
Regular exercise and adequate sleep can increase your resilience to stress.
Regarding acute headache episodes, you should seek medical attention and have some pain relief medication on hand to avoid disruptions during important events (such as major exams).
Additionally, in rare cases, headaches may be a sign of serious illnesses, so if your headache persists for too long, or if you experience worsening pain, prolonged duration, increased frequency, or accompanying symptoms such as vomiting, visual disturbances, or changes in consciousness, you should promptly consult a neurologist to clarify the cause.
Reply Date: 2018/03/04
More Info
Headaches can be a complex symptom with various underlying causes, and your recent experiences suggest that stress may indeed be a significant factor contributing to your discomfort. Given the context of your situation—exam stress, irregular eating habits, and insufficient sleep—it's not uncommon for individuals to experience tension-type headaches or even migraines under such circumstances.
Understanding Headaches
1. Types of Headaches:
- Tension-Type Headaches: These are the most common form of headaches and are often triggered by stress, anxiety, or muscle tension. Symptoms typically include a feeling of tightness or pressure around the forehead or temples, which aligns with your description of a heavy feeling in your head and pain in the forehead and temples.
- Migraines: These are characterized by more severe, pulsating pain, often on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can also be triggered by stress, lack of sleep, and changes in routine.
- Cluster Headaches: Although less common, these are extremely painful and occur in cyclical patterns or clusters. They typically affect one side of the head and are often accompanied by nasal congestion or eye watering.
2. Stress and Headaches:
- Stress is a well-known trigger for both tension-type headaches and migraines. The physiological response to stress can lead to muscle tension in the neck and scalp, which can exacerbate headache symptoms. Additionally, the mental strain of preparing for exams can lead to a cycle of anxiety and physical symptoms, including headaches.
- Your experience of feeling dizzy and as if your head is not your own may indicate a heightened level of anxiety or stress, which can also contribute to the sensation of lightheadedness.
3. Lifestyle Factors:
- Your irregular eating habits and lack of sleep are significant contributors to headache frequency and intensity. Skipping meals can lead to low blood sugar, which is a known headache trigger. Furthermore, chronic sleep deprivation can exacerbate stress and lead to increased headache occurrences.
- Aim for a balanced diet and ensure you are getting adequate nutrition, as this can help stabilize your energy levels and reduce headache triggers.
Recommendations
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given that your headaches have persisted despite attempts to manage stress, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider, preferably a neurologist. They can help rule out any underlying medical conditions and provide a tailored treatment plan.
2. Stress Management Techniques:
- Consider incorporating relaxation techniques into your routine, such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises. These practices can help reduce stress and may alleviate headache symptoms.
- Regular physical activity is also beneficial for stress management and can improve overall well-being.
3. Sleep Hygiene:
- Prioritize getting enough sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours per night, and establish a regular sleep schedule to improve sleep quality. Avoid screens before bedtime and create a restful environment to enhance your sleep.
4. Dietary Adjustments:
- Maintain regular meal times and include a variety of nutrients in your diet. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as dehydration can trigger headaches.
5. Medication:
- If your headaches are severe or debilitating, over-the-counter pain relief medications may be appropriate. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication, especially if you have concerns about frequency or severity.
In summary, while your headaches may be related to stress and lifestyle factors, it is essential to seek professional guidance to ensure that there are no underlying health issues. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of your situation, you can work towards reducing the frequency and intensity of your headaches.
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