OpenHealth Q&A

Seeking Relief from Persisting Head Pressure (33F)

Hello everyone, I am a 33-year-old female currently grappling with what seems to be an extended episode of head pressure. For context, I've had ongoing health challenges including moderate postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), early onset spondylosis, scoliosis, and I've been managing acid reflux with pantoprazole, which has been effective. Recently, I was diagnosed with eosinophilic asthma and received a Nucala injection, along with a daily prescription for Trelegy Ellipta inhaler. The troubles began in late June when I first experienced what felt like a tension headache—a sensation I'm not accustomed to. I took Tylenol Sinus & Headache, and while it worked briefly, I cannot pinpoint any dietary changes or lifestyle factors that might have led to this issue. Throughout the first week of July, I endured persistent head pressure, which feels distinct from my typical migraine episodes that lack aura. This sensation manifests as a constant weight on the top of my head, extending to the sides near my ears, occasionally causing a feeling of fullness in my ears. Rather than the typical throbbing pain I am familiar with, this pressure has often made me feel as if my head might burst or swell—strange as that sounds. Now, more than a month later, the pressure persists. I sought relief in the ER where I was administered a migraine cocktail consisting of dexamethasone, Compazine, and a Toradol injection. Those treatments made me feel worse initially, but the following day, the pressure lessened significantly. Unfortunately, the relief was short-lived; just two days later, all symptoms returned. The doctors suggested that it was merely another migraine, but I feel it is something more complicated. Additional visits to urgent care provided little relief; although my electrolyte levels were fine, a Toradol injection did not alleviate the pressure. I have tried numerous over-the-counter medications including Rizatriptan, which usually helps with my standard migraines, but even that doesn’t seem to apply here. I’m also taking a daily preventive medication, Qulipta, which typically works well, but again, does not address this ongoing issue. In a more recent visit, a nurse practitioner informed me that my sinuses were highly inflamed and prescribed a six-day taper of 10mg prednisone alongside 500mg amoxicillin and clavulanate for 10 days. I completed the prednisone last Saturday, and my final day on the amoxicillin is tomorrow, yet my symptoms have not improved. This prolonged discomfort is making it difficult to work, as I find myself wanting to remain in bed with either a heating pad or ice pack, which is not a sustainable solution. I have an upcoming spinal tap on Tuesday, even though the only symptom I’ve been experiencing is this relentless pressure—without any visual disturbances or additional headache-related issues. It is becoming increasingly frustrating. I have had both an MRI and MRV that showed no concerning findings. Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

Answers (1)

8/13/2025, 7:02:00 AM

OpenHealth AI

I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing persistent head pressure and discomfort. This situation sounds quite distressing, especially given your ongoing health challenges. It's important to explore possible explanations while providing some actionable steps to help relieve your symptoms.

Main Points:

1. Your ongoing head pressure could be related to various factors, including sinus issues, medication side effects, or other underlying conditions.
2. Managing symptoms is crucial, particularly during this time leading up to your spinal tap.

Explanation:

Head pressure can stem from many sources. Given your history of eosinophilic asthma, POTS, and recent sinus inflammation, it might be worth considering that sinus issues could be contributing to this sensation. The pressure felt in the head can also be associated with muscle tension due to stress or posture, especially with your history of spondylosis and scoliosis.

Next Steps:

1. Stay Hydrated: Make sure you’re drinking enough fluids, as dehydration can worsen head pressure symptoms.
2. Apply Heat or Cold: Continue using a heating pad or ice pack on your head or neck as it can help relieve tension. Alternating between the two might provide relief.
3. Gentle Neck and Shoulder Stretches: Engage in light stretching exercises to relieve any muscle tension that may contribute to the sensation of pressure. Focus on your neck and upper shoulders.
4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of symptoms, noting their intensity, what you were doing when they worsened/improved, and any triggers you may have identified. This can be helpful for your healthcare team during your upcoming spinal tap.
5. Limit Stimulants: Reduce intake of caffeine and sugar, which can exacerbate nervous tension and headaches.
6. Follow Up: If pressure persists beyond your spinal tap and the recent medications do not provide relief, consider seeking a second opinion from a headache specialist or neurologist. They may explore alternative treatment plans, including adjustments to your medications.

Supportive Reminder:

You are actively managing a complicated situation, and it's okay to seek additional help as needed. Keep advocating for your health and expressing your concerns to your healthcare providers. You’re not alone in this, and it’s essential to find a solution that works for you. Please let me know if you have further questions or need more information.