Unusual Noises in My Neck
(M24) Recently, I've been noticing a peculiar squishing noise coming from the base of my skull whenever I turn my head. This usually occurs in the morning or after I've been active. It frequently makes cracking sounds as well. Additionally, I’ve been experiencing intense headaches that can last for hours on most days, and I can’t help but think there might be a connection between these symptoms. I’ve talked to my physician about my concerns and requested an MRI, but he seemed unconvinced that there was any significant issue and denied my request. I'm feeling quite anxious about this situation and concerned that these noises and my headaches could signal something more serious. Is there a particular condition I might mention to my doctor during my next appointment?
Answers (1)
6/30/2025, 12:30:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious when you’re experiencing unusual symptoms like the sounds in your neck and frequent headaches. Your symptoms could relate to several benign conditions, but it’s wise to stay observant and proactive about your health.
Key Points:
- The noises and cracking you hear in your neck, known as crepitus, can be common and often don't indicate a serious issue.
- Frequent intense headaches may be a separate concern and can stem from various causes, including tension, migraines, or neck-related issues.
Explanation:
- Crepitus: This is the sound that occurs when air bubbles in the joints pop or when tendons move over bony surfaces. It's usually harmless, especially if there's no pain associated with the noise.
- Headaches: These can be related to muscle tension, poor posture, or even cervical spine issues. Your headaches combined with neck noises may suggest a tension-type headache or cervicogenic headache (neck-related).
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed journal of your headaches, noting their frequency, intensity, duration, and any associated symptoms like neck stiffness or light sensitivity. This can help identify patterns and triggers.
- Self-Care:
- Practice good posture, especially if you spend long periods sitting or using a computer.
- Incorporate neck stretches and relaxation techniques daily to ease tension.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a well-balanced diet.
- Discuss with Your Doctor:
- During your next appointment, mention the possibility of "tension-type headaches" or "cervicogenic headaches." This can prompt a deeper discussion about management and potential investigations.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Consider trying techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage your anxiety and potentially lessen headache frequency.
Remember, staying proactive about your symptoms is essential, but also keep in mind that many people experience similar noises and headaches without serious issues. Let me know if you need further clarification or support.
Related Questions
Concern About Vomiting Blood
Age 15, height 5'2", weight approximately 195-200 lbs. I apologize in advance—this is quite disturbing. I struggle with bulimia, and this month has been particularly challenging for me. I’ve been engaging in cycles of bingeing and purging consistently throughout June, and I believe it's starting to impact my health. Earlier today, when I attempted to purge, I experienced a painful sensation in the back of my throat. It felt very tender, and when I vomited, only a thin, watery liquid with a faint pinkish-red hue came out. I certainly haven't consumed anything that is even close to that color. This isn't the first time I've encountered a similar situation; I've observed a similar light pink liquid with some red streaks in the past, but it eventually subsided. However, I'm increasingly anxious now and concerned that this might indicate a more serious issue. Lately, I've been feeling extremely fatigued, often sleepy, and dizzy, and I've also been plagued by a severe migraine. I'm unsure if these symptoms are connected to my purging habits. I thought about confiding in my mother, but she believes that I’ve been recovering and I genuinely don’t want to let her down. In the past, she has even suggested sending me to a rehabilitation center due to my eating disorder, and I worry that this incident might push her over the edge. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. I’m feeling quite lost and I’m terrified of the possibility of serious internal damage.
Concern Over Moveable Lump on Neck
I’m a 14-year-old male, and I’ve discovered a small, movable lump on the left side of my neck, positioned towards the back. While it’s not visible, I can clearly feel its presence. I first noticed it a few days ago, and it has made me very anxious; I’m genuinely worried that it could signal something serious. Although I experienced a cold a few weeks back, I currently don’t have any additional symptoms beyond this lump. I find myself touching it frequently, and I'm starting to think that it might have increased slightly in size, amplifying my concerns. Is this type of lump typical? Should I be worried? Thank you for taking the time to read this. I’m eager for any insights you could provide, as I’m feeling quite frightened about the situation.
Understanding Polycythemia: A Personal Experience
Rare Case of Erythrocytosis/Polycythemia Hello, everyone. I’m seeking opinions and insights concerning my condition of erythrocytosis. Here’s a brief overview of my situation: I am a 30-year-old male. At 28, during a standard lab assessment, I discovered elevated levels of hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), and red blood cells (RBC). My Vitamin B12 was found to be quite high at 1618, while my serum ferritin measured 76. At that time, my erythropoietin (EPO) level was 6.65 (normal range: 4.3-29). Subsequent tests, including kidney function tests (KFT), liver function tests (LFT), ultrasound, arterial blood gas analysis, and ECG, all returned normal results. Additionally, my serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was within the normal range. I had my peripheral blood examined for mutations in JAK2 exons 12-15, CALR, and MPL, all of which came back negative. My physician recommended phlebotomy to help reduce my hematocrit levels. Over the past two years, I have undergone phlebotomy ten times and also had a bone marrow biopsy. Both the biopsy and aspirate results returned normal; the only noteworthy finding was a decrease in my iron stores, potentially due to the frequent phlebotomies. The cytogenetic tests were also normal. I was retested for JAK2 exons 12-15, CALR, MPL, and BCR-ABL from bone marrow blood samples, and again, all came back negative for these mutations. Currently, I am facing elevated serum LDH levels (470, with a normal value being <240), along with high serum total protein (8.4, normal range 6-8), and an increased serum albumin level (5.1). Additionally, for the past three months, I have noticed frothy urine, although my creatinine level is normal at 0.74. Recent urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) tests showed results of 17 and 102, respectively. I would greatly appreciate any insights or advice regarding my situation.
Unsettling CT-Scan Experience
Hello everyone, I know you probably hear lots of similar stories, but I'm in need of some guidance regarding my recent medical experience. Around four weeks ago, I (25F) underwent an ultrasound that unexpectedly revealed a 5cm solid mass on my right kidney. The radiologist suggested it could potentially be an angiomyolipoma (AML), yet both the senior radiologist and my physician expressed concerns. As a result, they scheduled me for an urgent CT scan with contrast, linking it to my persistently elevated CRP levels and anemia. When I went for the CT scan recently, things took an unusual turn. After getting everything set up and completing the preliminary scan, I was informed that a nurse needed to consult with the radiologist and a doctor before proceeding with the contrast injection. I ended up waiting for about 15 minutes, and when they returned, I was told I could leave without further tests. They mentioned that the findings would be sent to my primary care physician within a week. Should I be worried? Every time I approach the topic, I receive vague reassurances about my age without any concrete answers. Thank you for your help!
Inquiry Regarding Giant Liver Hemangioma
I am a 45-year-old cisgender woman without any significant or chronic health conditions. In 2023, I was unexpectedly diagnosed with a large liver hemangioma during a routine examination. The medical professionals I consulted expressed minimal concern, advising me against engaging in contact sports that could potentially impact my abdominal area. Until recently, I experienced no symptoms and felt reassured about my condition. A follow-up MRI indicated no change in the size of the hemangioma. However, I have recently been dealing with severe abdominal bloating, noticeable distension, weight gain, and intermittent nausea. I also feel an overwhelming sense of fullness even after consuming small portions of food. I am curious if these symptoms could relate to the hemangioma. How do healthcare providers assess such a connection, and what treatment options might be considered? Furthermore, do these symptoms imply a heightened risk of rupture? Is surgical intervention advisable, or might it pose too great a risk? The details from my 2025 MRI indicate that there is a sizable cavernous hemangioma measuring 13 x 10 x 6 cm located within the anterior segment of my right lobe, displaying minor areas of myxoid degeneration. Additionally, there is a hemangioma of 4.4 x 3 x 5.2 cm situated within the caudate lobe, along with several smaller hepatic cysts and hemangiomas. Importantly, no suspicious hepatic lesions were found. Thank you for any insights you may have on this matter. I have two excellent doctors I plan to consult, but I prefer to be well-prepared for these discussions.