Headaches: Sneezing, Coughing, and Neurological Concerns

Sneezing, coughing, and then experiencing a headache?

Hello, doctor.
I am 26 years old.
A few days ago, I experienced an allergic asthma attack, and the doctor prescribed a bronchodilator, which helped.
However, I started to have headaches afterward.
I often feel pressure in the back of my head, and when I cough or sneeze, I experience a sharp pain on the right side of my scalp that lasts for about 10 minutes before subsiding.
When I bend down to pick something up, my head feels very pressured, as if it might explode.
At night, I also feel pressure in the back of my head while sleeping.
Sometimes, when I squat and suddenly stand up, I feel a sharp pain.
I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who suggested that it might be due to cerebral vasospasm and prescribed medication, advising that recovery would take time and patience.
During the day, I function normally, but any sneezing or coughing triggers a brief pain.
I sleep well at night, usually until morning.
I have a habit of staying up late, going to bed around 1 AM.
My blood pressure fluctuates between 110-138, and my heart rate is about 80.
I have read many articles and am very worried that I might have a brain tumor.
Can an EEG detect a brain tumor? I am truly scared and seek your clarification.
Thank you very much for your help.

Afu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/22

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, the most common cause of right occipital pain is cervical myofascial pain.
Prolonged periods of looking down can lead to overuse of the trapezius muscle in the neck, resulting in neck and shoulder discomfort.
Initially, resting may alleviate the pain, but it can progressively worsen and interfere with daily activities.
Some individuals may experience exacerbated neck pain during a cold due to reduced local circulation, leading to stiffness, tightness, and unbearable pain levels.

I recommend the following:
1.
Change Positions: Change your position every 15 minutes to allow the neck tissues to rest.
Maintaining any position (including a normal one) for an extended period can lead to tissue fatigue and inflammation, so moving around briefly can reduce the risk of muscle inflammation.
2.
Rest: Resting allows the muscles to utilize their self-repair capabilities; avoid vigorous exercise during this time.
3.
Neck Heat Therapy: Apply heat for 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring the temperature is safe to avoid burns.
4.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): For individuals without a history of gastric ulcers, allergies to NSAIDs, or normal kidney function, consider using NSAIDs as needed to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
5.
Neck Muscle Stretching Exercises: After the acute pain phase, develop a habit of performing slow and gentle neck stretches every 15 to 20 minutes without causing discomfort, moving the neck up, down, left, and right.
Regarding your concerns about a brain tumor, symptoms typically worsen over time, and there are usually no specific tender points upon examination.
I suggest consulting a neurologist or a rehabilitation physician for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from the Neurology Department cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/11/22

More Info

Headaches can be a complex and multifaceted issue, often influenced by various factors including allergies, respiratory conditions, and even lifestyle habits. Based on your description, it seems that your headaches may be related to a combination of your recent bronchial issues and possibly tension or pressure changes in your head.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that headaches can arise from numerous causes. In your case, the headaches seem to be triggered by actions such as sneezing or coughing, which can create sudden increases in intracranial pressure. This is particularly relevant for individuals with allergies or asthma, as these conditions can lead to inflammation and increased sensitivity in the nasal passages and sinuses. When you sneeze or cough, the pressure changes can lead to a brief, sharp pain in the head, especially if there is underlying sinus congestion or tension.

The sensation of your head feeling "full" or "tight" could also indicate tension-type headaches, which are often exacerbated by stress, poor posture, or prolonged periods of time spent in front of screens. Given your late-night habits and potential for muscle tension from sitting for long periods, this could be contributing to your symptoms. Additionally, the fact that you experience pain when bending down or standing up quickly suggests that there may be some involvement of the cervical spine or neck muscles, which can also refer pain to the head.

Regarding your concern about a brain tumor, it’s understandable to feel anxious, especially when experiencing new or unusual symptoms. However, the symptoms you describe—such as the transient nature of the pain, the absence of persistent neurological deficits (like weakness, vision changes, or severe dizziness), and the fact that you are able to function normally during the day—are not typical indicators of a brain tumor. Brain tumors often present with more persistent and severe symptoms, including significant headaches that worsen over time, neurological deficits, or changes in personality or cognitive function.

As for your question about EEG (electroencephalogram) tests, they are primarily used to assess electrical activity in the brain and are not typically used to diagnose structural issues like tumors. Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans are more appropriate for evaluating potential tumors or other structural abnormalities in the brain.

In terms of management, it would be beneficial to address your allergies and asthma comprehensively. Ensure that you are following your physician's recommendations regarding medications. Additionally, consider lifestyle modifications such as improving your sleep hygiene, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and ensuring proper ergonomics while working. Regular physical activity can also help alleviate tension and improve overall well-being.

If your headaches persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a neurologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies to rule out any serious conditions and provide you with a tailored treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and medical history.

In summary, while your symptoms are concerning, they are more likely related to tension and pressure changes rather than a serious underlying condition like a brain tumor. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider and addressing your allergies and lifestyle factors will be key in managing your headaches effectively.

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