Pain Above the Temples: Causes and Solutions - Neurology

More Info

---

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the pain above your temples. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing tension-type headaches or possibly a form of sinus-related discomfort. Let’s explore the potential causes and solutions for your symptoms.


Possible Causes of Pain Above the Temples
1. Tension-Type Headaches: These are the most common type of headaches and are often triggered by stress, poor posture, or prolonged periods of sitting, especially in front of a computer. The pain is usually described as a tight band around the head and can be associated with tenderness in the scalp, neck, and shoulder muscles.

2. Sinusitis: If you have had any recent upper respiratory infections or allergies, inflammation of the sinuses can lead to pain above the temples. This pain is often accompanied by nasal congestion, facial pressure, and sometimes fever.

3. Migraines: Although you mentioned that you do not have significant stress, migraines can occur without obvious triggers. They can cause unilateral pain, often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light, and sometimes visual disturbances.

4. Cervicogenic Headaches: These headaches originate from issues in the cervical spine (neck). If you have poor posture or spend long hours in front of a screen, this could lead to muscle tension and pain that radiates to the temples.

5. Eye Strain: Spending extended periods on screens can lead to eye strain, which can manifest as headaches. This is often exacerbated by inadequate lighting or improper screen distance.


Solutions and Recommendations
1. Posture and Ergonomics: Ensure that your workspace is ergonomically designed. Your computer screen should be at eye level, and your chair should support your lower back. Take regular breaks to stretch and move around.

2. Stress Management: Even if you feel you have no stress, incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can help alleviate tension in your body.

3. Hydration and Nutrition: Dehydration can lead to headaches. Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day and eating balanced meals.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If the pain is bothersome, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can provide relief. However, it’s important not to overuse these medications, as they can lead to rebound headaches.

5. Physical Therapy: If your headaches persist, consider consulting a physical therapist. They can provide exercises to strengthen neck muscles and improve posture, which may alleviate your symptoms.

6. Eye Examination: If you suspect eye strain, it may be beneficial to have an eye exam. An optometrist can check for vision issues that may be contributing to your headaches.

7. Follow-Up with a Specialist: Since you have already had a CT scan and blood tests, if your symptoms continue, it may be worthwhile to consult a neurologist or headache specialist. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and explore other potential causes.


Conclusion
While it’s reassuring that your initial tests came back normal, persistent headaches warrant further investigation. Keeping a headache diary can also be helpful; note when the headaches occur, their intensity, duration, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action.

I hope this information helps you understand your symptoms better and provides you with actionable steps to find relief. Please take care, and don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen.