Which department should I make an appointment with?
I have been experiencing frequent headaches over the past two years, sometimes on the right side of my temple and other times on the left side.
Could this be what is referred to as a migraine? I just checked my temperature, and it was only 35.9 degrees Celsius.
I thought the thermometer was inaccurate, so I checked again, and it still read 36.1 degrees Celsius.
What could be the cause of my headaches and low body temperature? Which department should I visit at the hospital to ensure I see the right specialist? Does Chiayi Provincial Hospital treat these kinds of conditions? Thank you.
Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/05/23
Dr. Huang Yingzhe reply Neurology
Your headache could indeed be a migraine; however, without further details on other characteristics, there are other possibilities.
A low body temperature might be due to a malfunctioning thermometer, insufficient measurement time, low external temperature, or just having sweated recently, among other factors.
If there are no other issues, it may not be a major concern (I believe it is unrelated to the headache).
It would be advisable to consult a family medicine physician for an evaluation!
Reply Date: 2002/05/23
More Info
Based on your symptoms of frequent headaches and low body temperature, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Given the nature of your headaches, which occur on either side of your head and may resemble migraine symptoms, and the concern regarding your body temperature being lower than the normal range, it is essential to approach this systematically.
Headaches
Your description of headaches that alternate between the right and left temples suggests that you might be experiencing migraines, which are often characterized by unilateral pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes nausea. However, it is also important to consider other types of headaches, such as tension headaches or cluster headaches, which can also present with similar symptoms. The fact that you have been experiencing these headaches for two years warrants a thorough evaluation.
Low Body Temperature
A body temperature of 35.9°C (96.6°F) is indeed lower than the normal range, which typically hovers around 36.1°C to 37.2°C (97°F to 99°F). Low body temperature, or hypothermia, can be caused by various factors, including environmental exposure, metabolic issues, or even certain medical conditions. It is crucial to determine whether this low temperature is a consistent finding or if it fluctuates based on environmental conditions or other factors.
Recommended Departments
Given your symptoms, the most appropriate department to visit would be Neurology for your headaches. A neurologist can conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a physical examination, a detailed medical history, and possibly imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan if deemed necessary. They can help differentiate between migraine and other headache disorders and provide appropriate treatment options.
For your low body temperature, you might also consider consulting with a Primary Care Physician or an Internal Medicine Specialist. They can evaluate your overall health, assess any underlying conditions that might be contributing to your low body temperature, and refer you to an endocrinologist if necessary.
Additional Considerations
1. Lifestyle Factors: Consider factors such as hydration, nutrition, sleep patterns, and stress levels, as these can significantly impact both headache frequency and body temperature regulation.
2. Environmental Influences: If you notice that your headaches worsen in certain environments (e.g., heat or humidity), it may be beneficial to keep a headache diary to identify triggers.
3. Mental Health: Given your history of anxiety symptoms, it may also be worth discussing these with your healthcare provider, as stress and anxiety can exacerbate both headaches and physical symptoms like temperature regulation.
4. Follow-Up: If your symptoms persist or worsen, ensure you follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
In summary, for your headaches, visit a neurologist, and for your low body temperature, start with a primary care physician. Both specialists can work together to provide a comprehensive approach to your health concerns. Always remember to communicate all your symptoms clearly to your healthcare provider to facilitate accurate diagnosis and treatment.
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