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What kind of headache do I have?

I wrote in the general discussion explaining that I’ve been told by my GP and chiropractor that I have tension headaches, and by my neuro that I have migraines. I’m also nervous that after researching I could have rebound heaches.

Here are my symptoms: 6-8x month I get pain in the top of my neck, right on the pressure points below the back of my skull. Both sides, pulsing and aching. Pressure. No nausea, no sensitivity to light or noise. If I do not take something, I get a pulse top of my head and face until my one eye closes in shooting pain. I respond to NSAIDs only, within’ 15-20 minutes. Usually 2 but needing 3 sometimes within’ the last 6 months. These headaches hit me quick and severely. Same way, every time. Sometimes lately, they’ve been returning 4-6 hours later needing more meds. I can go anywhere from 7-8 days with no headache and then 2 days with one on/off headache. Sometimes I even go 12-18 days with out but this only happens 1-2x year.

I have not responded to Triptans, Aimovig (sent me to ER with adverse reaction of a thunderclap headache), Propranalol, Topomax, trigger point injections, GammaCare, Massages, Stim machine, chiropractic adjustments (they help seldomly).

Looking for ways to prevent and have more confidence in NSAIDs killing each headache for good with the appropriate dosage. Neuros don’t seem to understand my pain.

Ty!!

  1. Hello MK2019, thank you for reaching out! I hear how much you are struggling with your headache/migraine symptoms. It is frustrating when your doctors do not have good answers and are not trying to find better solutions for you. Living without an effective treatment is miserable. We cannot offer medical advice or diagnostics over the internet (for your safety!) but I wondered if you might consider seeking a second opinion from a new neurologist or headache specialist. Sometimes having a fresh perspective can make a difference in your treatment. Please know we are always here to listen when you need support. Wishing you a gentle day. ~Allyson (Migraine.com team)

    1. Thank you Allyson. I actually just saw a new headache specialist. He mentioned another preventative. I think neurologists don’t all believe in tension headaches which I believe I have more so than migraines.

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