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Sudden terrible headache

My boyfriend is 25 years old and he recently was brushing his teeth when he got a terrible pain in his head. He thought he was dying he said it hurt so badly. He passed out and woke up covered in sweat and began to throw up. Is this a migraine? The pain dulled a bit and then he slept for a while. It has happened two other times since the initial problem, neither were as sever but both caused him to almost be sick and be in tremendous pain. I am worried it is something serious.
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Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,

This sounds like a case of atypical headache.Some headaches may present after exercises such as exercise induced headaches.Also some headaches may be associated with certain  activities ( eg during sexual climax) as in the case of a form of exertional headache (coital headache).

I suggest that a thorough evaluation be done. A cranial CT scan and MRI scan with a complete neurological examination is necessary.If this is a new onset headache, then all the more that an immediate consult is important.I also suggest a thorough cardiac assessment.

I advise that when brushing the teeth,refrain from brushing all the way up to the back of the mouth as this may stimulate the vagus nerve ( may slow down heart beat) and cause a reflex which may lead to loss of consciousness.
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Avatar universal
This morning he was brushing his teeth and began to cough and it happened again. No vomiting this time but the pain seems terrible. He is literally on the verge of tears it is so bad. Two other times it happened during sex.
When it happens he is very sensitive to light and noise.
Thank you so much for replying.
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Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,

I suggest that your friend seek consult with a neurologist for a complete neurologic examination.A differential for your friend's case is a headache secondary to an underlying dental problem ,trigeminal neuralgia and a cervicogenic headache with a referred facial pain.

Any other triggering factors for the headache?

Any activities,events or conditions that seem to aggravate the condition?

Do bright lights ,loud noises ,brushing the hair or lightly touching the face trigger the pain?

This may be something nerve related.Trigeminal neuralgia may present with severe debilitating pain.A dental assessment may also be necessary.

Do keep us posted regarding your physician's advice.
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