Your Persistent Headaches: When to Seek Help - Neurology

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Persistent headaches can be a significant concern, especially when they start to interfere with your daily life and sleep. Based on your description, it sounds like you have been experiencing headaches that primarily start around your left eyebrow and can sometimes extend to the right side and the back of your head. The fact that these headaches have become more frequent, occurring about once or twice a week, is certainly worth investigating further.

Given your history, there are several potential causes for your headaches. The symptoms you describe, particularly the location and pattern of the pain, suggest that you might be experiencing tension-type headaches or possibly migraines. Tension-type headaches are often characterized by a feeling of tightness or pressure around the forehead or back of the head and neck, while migraines can present with unilateral pain, often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light, and sometimes visual disturbances.
The fact that your headaches tend to worsen in the evening and improve after a good night's sleep is also a common feature of tension-type headaches. However, the fact that they have become more frequent and severe over time is concerning and warrants further evaluation.
You mentioned that you have not taken any pain relief medication, which is commendable, but it may be worth considering over-the-counter options like acetaminophen or ibuprofen during an episode to see if they provide relief. However, relying solely on medication is not a long-term solution, and it is essential to identify the underlying cause of your headaches.

Since you have a history of headaches that began during your university years and have progressively worsened, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A neurologist would be the most appropriate specialist to evaluate your condition. They can perform a thorough assessment, which may include a neurological examination and possibly imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to rule out any structural issues in the brain or other underlying conditions.

Additionally, you mentioned concerns about high eye pressure. It would also be prudent to see an ophthalmologist to rule out any ocular issues, such as glaucoma, which can cause headaches and is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure.

In the meantime, consider keeping a headache diary to track the frequency, duration, and intensity of your headaches, as well as any potential triggers (such as stress, lack of sleep, or dietary factors). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing and managing your condition.

Lastly, lifestyle modifications can also play a significant role in managing headaches. Ensure you are maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying hydrated, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or physical activity. Ergonomic adjustments to your workspace, especially if you spend long hours at a computer, can also help reduce tension in your neck and shoulders, which may contribute to headache symptoms.

In summary, while your headaches may be tension-type or possibly migraines, the increase in frequency and severity is a signal to seek medical advice. A neurologist can provide a comprehensive evaluation, and an ophthalmologist can address any concerns regarding eye health. Taking proactive steps now can help you manage your headaches more effectively and improve your overall quality of life.