Exertion Headache?

[Lena20]

I have been getting these horrible pulsating headaches for a week now - about 6 of them.  They are located in the back of my head on the right side.  The pain is so intense I feel faint.  My face gets a little numb too.  They seem to be brought on by stretching or shivering (from the cold).  I had an MRI/MRA last week and they were normal.  I felt better but just had another one. Any ideas on what may be the problem.  My doctor thinks it's sinusitus but it seems too intense for that.  They last from 45 minutes to an hour and a half.  Thank you.

[Lena20]

Thank you for your help!!

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

Good to hear that it is getting better.

Did you do anything to relieve the symptoms?

One differential will be a dislocated TMJ, a craniofascial pain due to swelling or minor inflammation of structures in the face, a sinus headache, cervicogenic headaches and occipital neuralgia.

Occipital neuralgia may present with a sharp pain at the back of the head.However,this pain may be sharp, burning and tingling and may be associated with a previous history of trauma.

Continue to observe the headaches. If they continue, seek immediate consult with a neurologist to have them classified.

[Lena20]

Thanks for the reply,

Yes, this is the first time.
Never had anything like this before.
Always in the back of the head - moving to the ear.
No eye tearing, redness or nasal discharge.
No history of trauma.
Shivering or yawning aggravates the headaches. (not bending or moving - that actually makes them feel better for a few seconds)
Shivering or stretching triggers them.

I had one yesterday and it lasted for hours and hours.  (12).  I feel better now.  Thanks for your help!  

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

Is this the first time that you have experienced these headaches?

Have you had headaches of similar character before?

Do your headaches always involve the back of the head?

Any other associated areas in the head ,face or neck wherein the pain is felt?

Are there associated eye tearing,eye redness or nasal discharge?

Any history of previous trauma or injury to the head or neck?

What aggravates your headaches?

What triggers and relieves them?

Do they appear in specific times of the year?

I will appreciate your answers as these questions are just meant to clarify some things.

Do keep us posted.