Bad Headache

by Nikki
(Cypress)

For about a week now a patient has had a very bad severe headache and went to the doctor. The doctor took blood work and it all came out normal and sent the patient home.

She now still cant get rid of the headache and some times hurts so bad that it makes her cry. She was told by the doctor that she has been prescribed too too many medications and that it could be the reason why. The patient is 19 and taking 7 different medications a day. What could this be or should the patient try and get a ct scan?

Nikki

Answer:

Hi Nikki,

I am not sure if the 'patient' is you or a friend or relative but whoever it is, a worsening headache profile is cause to get either a CT or MRI of the brain. In headaches, an MRI is preferable.

Too many medications, especially too many anti-inflammatories or pain killers like Lortabs can definitely make headaches worse.

This is called analgesic rebound headaches.

If your friend is this sick and still in bed, she needs to go to the ER for treatment to break the cycle of pain. Follow up should be with a neurologist, preferably one who specializes in headaches.

Good luck!
Mary Kay Betz MS RPA-C