Concerns Regarding Potential VAD
Hello! I appreciate any insight or advice you can provide. I am a 27-year-old female, generally healthy and physically active, with a history of joint laxity. I've undergone labral reconstruction due to dislocation, though I have not been formally diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). About a week and a half ago, I visited a specialist for lymphatic drainage to address sinus issues and allergies. At the conclusion of the session, we performed some neck resistance exercises, specifically isometric holds, turning only to the right. Later that same day, I began to experience a headache localized on my left side. Over the following days, the headache evolved into a bilateral experience, accompanied by an exertional headache, also on the left, that pulsated in my occipital area, particularly when my heart rate would elevate or when bending over. While that discomfort diminished, I have noticed that the entire suboccipital and upper occipital region on the left now feels tender—it’s sensitive to touch, with a burning, stinging sensation occurring even with the slightest pressure. I’m worried about the possibility of Vertebral Artery Dissection (VAD) or Cervical Artery Dissection (CAD) since the symptoms began following some awkward neck movements. Although the nature of my symptoms has shifted, they persist and are bilateral in nature. I'm considering whether to go to the emergency department for a CTA scan, but I'm hesitant to do so if the issue is merely related to nerve irritation or musculoskeletal problems. Any thoughts or advice would be immensely appreciated. Thank you very much!
Answers (1)
8/12/2025, 2:31:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand your concerns about your symptoms and the potential for vertebral artery dissection (VAD) or cervical artery dissection (CAD). It’s important to approach this situation thoughtfully, especially given your medical history and the onset of these new symptoms.
Main Points
- Symptoms like unilateral headaches, tenderness in the suboccipital area, and sensitivity can arise from various causes, including nerve irritation and musculoskeletal issues, especially post-neck maneuver.
- While VAD and CAD are serious conditions, they are less common, and your symptoms may be more indicative of musculoskeletal strain.
Detailed Explanation
Your history of joint laxity, combined with recent exercises that involved neck movements, might have led to irritation or strain in the muscles or nerves in that area, which frequently leads to headaches and tenderness. The fact that symptoms evolved and are now bilateral can suggest a broader issue, but it doesn’t necessarily indicate a vascular problem, especially if there are no other serious symptoms present, such as sudden changes in vision, weakness, or speech difficulties.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Self-Care for Muscle Strain:
- Rest your neck. Avoid positions or activities that worsen the pain.
- Apply ice or heat to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to ease discomfort and reduce inflammation.
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Manage Headaches:
- Over-the-counter pain relief (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help alleviate headache symptoms. Follow dosage guidelines on the package.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of any changes in symptoms. Pay attention to the character of the headaches—note if they change in intensity, frequency, or nature.
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Evaluate Need for Immediate Care:
- If you experience any sudden severe headache (often described as the worst ever), visual disturbances, weakness, numbness, or other abnormal neurological symptoms, seek emergency care promptly. If not, you might consider waiting a few days to see if the symptoms improve with rest and self-care before making any decisions about CT scans or specialist visits.
Final Thoughts
Your anxiety about VAD is completely understandable, but many issues can mimic those symptoms while being much less serious. If self-care doesn’t improve your situation or if you feel increasingly concerned, a consult with a healthcare professional would be prudent for further assessment. You're taking the right steps by being proactive about your health.
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