head pulsing

[Ja_van]

Head pulses then anxiety rush
by Ja_van


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Ja_van
  



, Jan 17, 2008 01:22PM
Tags: stress, brain, pulses, head
Hi there,I'm 46 yr old male.Have been a smoker(casual,less than 10cigs a day) for approximately 15-20 yrs.Quit last year in June,cold turkey! after learning that a close friend was diagnosed with a brain tumour.During these last 6 months,been having mild pulsing top left of head by forehead followed by feeling of anxiety rushing to my stomach.This pulsing does not hurt,lasts a second or two,comes at random times and I don't really notice when I'm working(Autobody)My friend past on in Dec. After this,I became more paranoid and have gone to the doctor for a physical.Told the doc about my "pulsing" and about my friend.He says more than likely stress related and especially after the experience regarding my friend.I'm self employed,care for my mother,and a young family.So I do have a lot of daily stress.Blood test results are good,x-rays of lungs ok,physical is good.I use Nasonex spray for stuffy nose.Doc says "You do not have a tumour" I asked about a MRI and he says he needs a good reason.I just want some re-assurance.Doc says try to take time to relax,excercise,eat and sleep properly.Come back to see him if my head pulsing and anxiety persists.No other meds given.What is your opinion? Thanks in advance!

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi Ja_Van,

Antidepressants may be used as preventive medication for transformed migraine or Medication overuse headaches. Let us hope you will improve with the prescription. Do not stop , increase or taper the dose of your medications unless you have discussed this with your physician. Antidepressants have their side effects. Just maintain a healthy lifestyle and give yourself much time for rest and relaxation.

Good Luck!

[Ja_van]

Thanks for your input,much appreciated. I took your advice and asked my physician today,regarding medication.He prescribed "Effexor XR" which is a antidepressant.I am a little skepticle if this will help the pulsing (with more frequency and a feeling of tightness)and this is every day for about a month now.Doctor still thinks it's anxiety that is causing this! I have been walking the dog(20 minutes ),trying to get 6-8 hrs of sleep,1 coffee a day,and trying to eat properly.Doctor says come back in a month to see him.I think the daily anxiety starts when get these damn "pulses" then it becomes a vicious cycle because my mind starts to wander with negative thoughts.Then the daily stress kicks in which now becomes "Anxiety". Well I hope these meds will help make the stress go away, along with the head pulsing.Your thoughts are welcome!

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

A complete medical history and physical examination would usually be able to help us focus on a problem. Your physician must have  found nothing of concern so any scans or further management may not be indicated at this point.

A pulsating headache that may be triggered by constant worrying and anxiety may be tension related. You may ask your physician for advice regarding any medications that will help with the pain. I know you are anxious and worried over this. I suggest, you see a psychologist or psychiatrist who may be able to help you. Depression , stress and anxiety may present as pain, difficulty of breathing and other  somatic presentations.Anyone who may be able to advise and listen may surely help.

Keep us posted. Relax and enjoy life!