Head Pain: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Symptoms - Family Medicine

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When it comes to persistent head pain, especially in someone who is in their fifties, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution. Your mother's symptoms, which include localized pain on the left side of her scalp that worsens with pressure, could be indicative of several conditions. Given that this pain has lasted for about three days, it is advisable for her to seek medical attention.


When to Seek Medical Help
In general, any new or unusual headache that persists for more than a few days warrants a visit to a healthcare provider. Specific red flags that should prompt immediate medical evaluation include:
1. Sudden Onset: If the headache comes on suddenly and is severe, it could indicate a more serious condition such as a hemorrhage.

2. Change in Pattern: If your mother has a history of headaches, any significant change in their frequency, intensity, or character should be evaluated.

3. Accompanying Symptoms: Symptoms such as visual disturbances, confusion, weakness, or fever alongside the headache are concerning and require urgent attention.

4. Localized Pain: Pain that is localized to one side of the head, especially if it is accompanied by tenderness or scalp sensitivity, could suggest conditions like migraine or even a form of neuralgia.


Which Specialist to See
For your mother's symptoms, the best course of action would be to consult a neurologist. Neurologists specialize in disorders of the nervous system, including headaches. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, a detailed history of the headache, and possibly imaging studies like a CT scan or MRI if deemed necessary.


Possible Causes of Her Symptoms
The symptoms your mother is experiencing could be due to several potential causes:
1. Tension-Type Headache: This is the most common type of headache and can cause a feeling of tightness or pressure, often described as a band-like sensation around the head. It can be triggered by stress, poor posture, or muscle tension.

2. Migraine: Migraines can present with unilateral head pain and may be associated with sensitivity to light, sound, or nausea. They can also cause scalp tenderness.

3. Cervicogenic Headache: This type of headache originates from issues in the neck and can cause pain that radiates to the head. It may be exacerbated by certain neck movements or positions.

4. Occipital Neuralgia: This condition involves irritation or injury to the occipital nerves, which can cause sharp, shooting pain in the back of the head and scalp.

5. Other Causes: Less commonly, headaches can be a sign of more serious conditions such as infections, tumors, or vascular issues.

Self-Care and Management
While waiting for an appointment, there are some self-care strategies your mother can try to alleviate her symptoms:
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain. However, they should be used sparingly to avoid rebound headaches.

- Rest and Relaxation: Encourage her to rest in a quiet, dark room, especially if she feels overwhelmed by light or noise.

- Hydration: Ensure she is drinking enough fluids, as dehydration can exacerbate headaches.

- Cold Compress: Applying a cold pack to the painful area may provide relief.


Conclusion
In summary, your mother's symptoms warrant a visit to a neurologist for a thorough evaluation. Understanding the nature of her headache is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Encourage her to seek medical attention promptly, as early intervention can lead to better management of her symptoms and overall quality of life.