Headaches and Mood Changes: When to Seek Neurology Help

Headache and mood swings?

Hello, doctor.
Previously, I had a vague pain in the right occipital region, but I thought it was a migraine and didn't pay much attention.
However, I recently noticed that this situation has become increasingly severe.
I didn't notice when the pain would occur before, but lately, I've been able to clearly identify that the same area hurts immediately when I bend down or exert myself.
The pain is not intermittent; it feels like a heavy blow and lasts for a while.

I'm not sure if it's related, but I consider myself an upbeat person, yet recently I've been unusually irritable and feeling down.
I don't have any nausea, but sometimes I feel awake yet not fully in control of my actions, and I can't quite describe whether it's dizziness or something else.
The symptoms have intensified to the point where they are affecting my daily life.
However, if it's a minor issue, I don't want to trouble the doctors at the hospital during this critical time.
Which department should I consult, doctor?

Xiao Le, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/30

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, it seems less likely to be a migraine.
Migraine is a type of vascular headache caused by neurological factors, and it typically does not present with localized pain points.
The more common cause of right-sided neck pain is cervical myofascial pain: prolonged periods of looking down can lead to overuse of the trapezius muscle in the back of the neck, resulting in neck and shoulder discomfort.
Initially, resting may alleviate the pain, but over time, it can worsen and affect daily activities.
Some patients may experience severe neck pain upon waking, characterized by stiffness, tightness, and intolerable pain levels.

I recommend the following strategies:
1.
Change positions: Alter your posture 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 brief movements can reduce the risk of muscle inflammation.
2.
Rest: Allowing the muscles to utilize their self-repair capabilities is essential, and vigorous exercise should be avoided 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): If you do not have a history of gastric ulcers, allergies to NSAIDs, or impaired 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 in all directions (up, down, left, right) every 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring that the angles do not cause discomfort.
I suggest consulting a neurologist or a rehabilitation physician for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center.

Reply Date: 2021/01/30

More Info

Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of headache symptoms and mood changes that are becoming increasingly concerning. The headaches you describe, particularly the pain in the right occipital area that worsens with bending down or exertion, could indicate several underlying issues that warrant further investigation.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that headaches can be classified into primary and secondary types. Primary headaches, such as migraines or tension-type headaches, are not caused by any underlying medical condition. Secondary headaches, on the other hand, can be a symptom of an underlying issue, such as a neurological disorder, infection, or structural problem in the brain.

Given that your headache has become more pronounced and is associated with specific triggers (like bending down or exertion), it may be indicative of a secondary headache. The nature of the pain—described as feeling like a heavy blow—could suggest increased intracranial pressure or irritation of the nerves in that area. Additionally, the mood changes you mentioned, such as increased irritability and feelings of depression, can often accompany chronic pain conditions, as persistent discomfort can significantly affect one's mental health.

The sensation of feeling disconnected from your own actions, as if you are not fully in control, could also be a sign of neurological involvement. This could be related to anxiety or a more complex neurological issue, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness or altered consciousness.

Given these factors, it is advisable to seek help from a neurologist. A neurologist specializes in disorders of the nervous system, including headaches, and can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any serious conditions like tumors, vascular malformations, or other structural abnormalities in the brain.

In the meantime, it may be beneficial to keep a headache diary. Documenting the frequency, duration, intensity, and triggers of your headaches can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider. Additionally, noting any mood changes, sleep patterns, and other symptoms can help in forming a comprehensive picture of your health.

While waiting for your appointment, consider implementing some lifestyle changes that may help alleviate your symptoms. Regular exercise, adequate hydration, and a balanced diet can positively impact both headache frequency and mood. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga, may also be beneficial in reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a visit to a neurologist for a comprehensive evaluation. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention, as early intervention can lead to better management of your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Head Pain: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing pain in the back of my head, dizziness, nausea, memory issues, and tinnitus recently. I visited a clinic where the doctor examined my ears and blood pressure, both of which were normal. The doctor suggested that it might be a stress-related ...

Dr. Cai Zongzhang reply Neurology
Hello, both physiological and psychological factors can contribute to headaches. It is recommended that you relax and maintain a regular routine. If the headache does not improve, it is advisable to consult a neurologist.

Understanding Your Headaches: When to Seek Neurology Care

Hello, doctor. In the past two years, I have frequently experienced headaches, located approximately above the eyebrows, with my left eye being affected more often than the right. The trigger seems to be any time the environment becomes stuffy or hot; I will definitely get a head...

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
If headaches are occasional and can be completely avoided by steering clear of triggers, then it's advisable to adjust your living environment to prevent headaches. However, if headaches occur frequently, are severe enough to impact daily life or work, or are accompanied by ...

Understanding Headaches: When to Seek Neurological Evaluation

I have been experiencing headaches every two to three days, alternating between the right and left sides of my head, with a pulsating sensation. I have taken pain relievers, but they only provide temporary relief. Should I go to the hospital for a CT scan of my brain?

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Headaches have numerous causes. In addition to understanding the location, nature, and duration of the headache, clinical physical examination is also necessary. Generally, the symptoms of headaches can be improved with medication. However, to treat the underlying causes, such as...

Understanding Headaches: When to Seek Help for Your Symptoms

Hello Dr. Huang, I often experience headaches that occur with anxiety, fatigue, laughter, or sometimes for no apparent reason. The pain varies: 1. Headaches triggered by anxiety or fatigue usually feel like a tension headache, and taking medication like Baifuning or resting almos...

Dr. Huang Yingzhe reply Neurology
Is it necessary to seek medical attention during a headache episode to identify the cause? Not necessarily! Your third type of headache may require careful evaluation to rule out the possibility of intracranial abnormalities.