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Experience During Filler Procedure

7/18/2025, 6:50:24 PMMale25-34

A 34-year-old woman, weighing 145 pounds and generally in good health, reports her current medication regimen includes fluvoxamine and bupropion. She also confirms that she does not smoke. Today, during a cosmetic procedure for filler in her temples, she experienced a troubling reaction. Prior to the filler application, the practitioner administered lidocaine with epinephrine to the areas around her temples. Almost immediately, she felt a sudden burning sensation, which escalated into an extremely painful tension headache, described as almost spasmodic in nature. After reclining for a few moments, the discomfort subsided. She seeks insights into the cause of this reaction, noting that she did not experience any lightheadedness, but rather an acute tension headache localized around her temples and the adjacent regions. It’s also worth mentioning that prior to the appointment, she consumed a large coffee but skipped breakfast due to being pressed for time, which is unusual for her routine.

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Answers (1)

Cony

7/18/2025, 6:50:41 PM

OpenHealth AI

Your experience of a painful tension headache following the filler procedure may be concerning, but there are several potential explanations. It’s important to understand that various factors could contribute to the reaction you experienced, including the anesthetic used, your recent caffeine consumption, and possibly even the stress of the procedure itself.

Explanation:

  1. Lidocaine Reaction: The burning sensation you felt upon administration of lidocaine with epinephrine can occur in some people, especially if there was any irritation of the tissues. This sensation, combined with your immediate response, might have triggered a tension headache.

  2. Caffeine Influence: Consuming a large amount of coffee, especially on an empty stomach, may heighten anxiety or cause dehydration, both of which could contribute to headaches. Caffeine withdrawal or overconsumption can also lead to similarly uncomfortable sensations.

  3. Stress and Tension: Procedures like filler injections can be stressful, and tension can accumulate in the neck and head muscles, leading to headaches, particularly if you were already feeling rushed or anxious.

Next Steps:

  1. Hydration: Ensure you drink plenty of water, especially after consuming caffeine, to stay hydrated. This can help reduce the chance of future tension headaches.

  2. Rest and Relaxation: Give yourself time to relax after the procedure. Find a comfortable position, practice deep breathing, or use a warm compress on your temples to relieve tension.

  3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any reoccurrences of the headache. If this happens again or if you experience unusual symptoms such as dizziness or changes in vision, consider seeking medical advice.

  4. Food Intake: Try not to skip meals in the future, particularly breakfast, as stable blood sugar levels can help maintain overall well-being and reduce headache susceptibility.

If the headaches continue or worsen, or if you experience new symptoms, consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Take care, and listen to your body’s signals moving forward.

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