Excruciating Headache

[mariazinha]

I'm 42 years old. A couple of weeks ago I had «the mother of all headaches» I've ever had. I was at PTA meeting and, when leaving, the teacher was talking to me but I can't remember any of her words, my forehead was pulsing and I felt very nauseated. Got in the car to go home, but I drove to the hospital instead (very, very slowly). By the time I was examined I had my face covered with my jacket, because couldn't stand the light in my eyes and even the noise of people talking softly at the waiting room was making my head explode. My blood pressure was ok, low as usual, 9/6, and the nurse gave me an injection of acethylsalicilic acid 1 g (IV). It took almost 50 min for the pain to slowly go away and finally I went home. Like most people  I have light to moderate headaches, but this was a completely different experience. My questions are: should I see a neurologist? Could that be a tiny haemorrhage in my brain and should I do something about it?

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? Although your symptoms of pulsating pain, nausea and sensitivity to light and noise highly suggest migraine headache, the fact that it is the worst headache in your life still warrants further evaluation by your doctor or neurologist. One differential to rule out is aneurysm which mimics migraine or cluster headaches and is caused by bulge in blood-vessel wall. It may present with sudden, unbearable headache, double vision, rigid neck and also unconsciousness. It is good though that your blood pressure was fine at that time because aneurysm is often caused by extreme hypertension. Take care and do keep us posted.

[dame_wilbur]

I wouldn't panic just yet. It might be a one time thing, but I would definitely note it, and keep an eye out. If you want, an appointment w/ your GP wouldn't be stupid. Explain the situation and ask their opinion.
Was there some kind of trigger that you can identify? Stress? A funny smell? If you can identify something that might have triggered the episode, you'll want to mention that, and try to avoid them/it in the future.

Good luck and keep us posted,'

~Dame