Persisting Pressure in Neck and Head
F32. Last Wednesday, while receiving intravenous fluids via my SmartPort located on the left side, an unexpected sensation of pressure developed in both my neck and head. This feeling subsided when the infusion was halted, yet it recurred once the treatment resumed. Since that incident, I've noticed the same uncomfortable pressure whenever I exert myself, walk, eat, bend over, or lie flat. I visited the emergency room on Friday. A chest X-ray indicated that my lines were correctly positioned, and a non-contrast CT scan of my head showed no abnormalities, as I am allergic to iodine contrast. I was released from the hospital, but the headaches persisted. On Monday, during my regular plasma exchange through my dialysis port in the right side of my chest, I encountered the same constricting pressure once more. I have reached out to my hematologist, cardiologist, and vascular specialist but have yet to receive any feedback. My medical background includes the following conditions: • Factor V Leiden • Previous right atrial thrombus (September 2024, necessitated emergency thrombectomy) • Right jugular vein DVT (October 2024) • Warfarin anticoagulation therapy (recent INR reading of 6.4 last Tuesday adjusted to 1.9 on Friday; target range is between 2.5 and 3.5) • Myasthenia Gravis • Lupus • Chronic anemia At present, I am dealing with symptoms such as: • Pressure in the neck and head • Facial swelling • Hoarseness • Lightheadedness • Difficulty breathing • Symptoms worsening with physical activity, exertion, or during meals Could these issues indicate SVC (Superior Vena Cava) syndrome? Considering my history of blood clots and anticoagulant complications, should I return to the emergency department? Or might this signify another underlying issue? What diagnostic examinations should I consider requesting?
Answers (1)
8/26/2025, 5:16:14 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about the persistent pressure you're experiencing in your neck and head, especially given your complex medical history. The symptoms you're describing, including facial swelling, hoarseness, lightheadedness, and difficulty breathing, are significant and could suggest an urgent condition such as Superior Vena Cava (SVC) syndrome.
Explanation
SVC syndrome occurs when there's obstruction of the superior vena cava, which can result from a variety of conditions, including blood clots, tumors, or other vascular issues. Given your history of blood clots and current anticoagulant therapy, it's essential to take your symptoms seriously.
Even though you've recently had imaging studies that didn't show any abnormalities, the recurring and worsening symptoms, especially during exertion or when lying flat, warrant further evaluation. This is particularly important considering your recent high INR levels and the complexities of your medical conditions.
Immediate Steps
-
Return to the Emergency Department: Given the combination of your symptoms and your medical history, returning to the emergency department is advisable. Explain all your symptoms, particularly the new developments since your last visit.
-
Seek Prompt Medical Attention: If you experience increased difficulty breathing, worsening lightheadedness, or any significant changes in your health (like sudden swelling or a feeling of impending doom), seek immediate care.
-
Symptom Documentation: Keep a log of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any triggers (like bending over or physical exertion). This information will be useful for the healthcare providers evaluating you.
-
Continue Seeking Feedback: While waiting for responses from your specialists, it might be beneficial to follow up with them again. Specifically, ask about a referral to a vascular specialist or more immediate imaging studies (like a Doppler ultrasound or MRI) that could help clarify any vascular concerns.
Reassurance
I understand this situation is distressing, especially with your underlying health conditions. It's important you advocate for yourself and ensure your concerns are taken seriously during your next medical encounter. Don't hesitate to express the urgency of your symptoms. Your health and well-being are paramount, and it’s crucial to follow up effectively.
Related Questions
Feeling Nauseous After Breakfast Lately?
Age: 29 Gender: Female Health Conditions: PCOS, gout Medications: Recent birth control, spironolactone, apple cider vinegar gummies, probiotics, vitamin supplements To start off, I understand that there are mixed opinions about probiotics, but I personally rely on them. They have been beneficial in managing thrush, which tends to flare up before my menstrual cycle. I've been on spironolactone for quite some time to manage symptoms related to PCOS. Although I'm hesitant about resuming birth control due to occasional side effects, I was recently prescribed it again since my periods have been quite irregular. Typically, I take my spironolactone, vitamins, and probiotics in the mornings, while I schedule my birth control for around 8 PM. Currently, I'm focusing on shedding some pounds due to the demands of my 10-hour workdays, and I've begun calorie counting to support this goal. Recently, I experienced an unsettling episode when I had watermelon for breakfast—it did not stay down. On another occasion, I enjoyed a breakfast wrap accompanied by a black coffee but soon found myself coughing and nearly vomiting. I usually avoid eating several hours before going to sleep. Not long ago, I underwent blood tests to check my hormone levels and iron. The doctor recommended that I increase my water intake, although all other results were generally within normal ranges. This nausea and vomiting sensation following meals is a new and concerning development for me.
Struggling to Grasp My Diagnosis
Initial assessment points to a diagnosis of 'Lumbosacral plexus disorders' (G54.1) under the same conditions. The primary diagnosis indicates 'Lumbar and other intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy' (M51.1) also in the context of the same condition. Unfortunately, my doctor has been unresponsive. I'm a 19-year-old woman and I was involved in a car accident two months back. Since then, I've been experiencing fractures at the S1-S2 levels along with significant weakness in my lower limbs, resembling foot drop.
Exploring the Use of Boric Acid Suppositories
I've been experiencing distressing symptoms exclusively on my outer labia, including intense itching, burning sensations, and notable swelling, along with firmness and redness that occur when I scratch. The skin is now beginning to look dry and flaky. Although there's no significant increase in discharge, I do notice occasional clear fluids appearing on the lips after scratching, particularly in the initial stages. I'm actively trying to avoid scratching as I understand the cycle of itching can worsen the issue. Additionally, there’s no unusual odor accompanying the symptoms. I previously observed nearly neon green stains in my underwear, though I suspect that might have been influenced by the fabric itself. This discomfort has persisted for over two weeks. A provider at a minute clinic suggested that I might have a yeast infection, although their assessment was purely visual with no diagnostic testing performed. They prescribed me three pills of an unspecified medication to be taken one every three days. I was also given terconazole cream to apply internally each night before sleeping; however, I often find myself awake throughout the night due to discomfort. The cream doesn’t cause any immediate itching or burning, but those sensations develop over time as it seeps out. After nine days of adhering to this treatment protocol, I have seen no improvement in my symptoms. I have a scheduled visit with an ob-gyn in two days, but the misery I'm experiencing is leading me to question whether I was misdiagnosed since all the issues seem to be confined to the area around my outer labia, with absolutely no positive response to the treatments thus far. Alternatively, it could be that these treatments are just not effective against my condition. In the meantime, I am considering whether it would be safe to use boric acid. Am I being irrational due to my frustration and itchiness? The thought of waiting another two days to start an alternative treatment is quite overwhelming. Update: I have previously experienced bacterial vaginosis, but this situation feels markedly different from that.
Concerns About Leukemia Symptoms
In January 2025, my blood tests returned normal results, yet I find myself anxious about the possibility of leukemia. I haven't experienced any weight loss, fatigue, or infections. My nasal passages have been congested recently, prompting me to use Flonase for a night. Over the last couple of nights, I've resorted to saline solutions in an attempt to alleviate the blockage. However, this led to a nosebleed on one side after I tried to clear my sinuses. Additionally, I've noticed a couple of small bruises that have faded to yellow and green, which suggests they are in the healing process. I’ve been waking up at night feeling my heart racing and sweating profusely, which has raised my concerns since these can be symptoms associated with leukemia. On the other hand, I am anticipating the start of my menstrual cycle in about ten days, so it's possible these symptoms are linked to hormonal changes. Do these symptoms suggest the possibility of leukemia?
Experiencing Discomfort in Neck and Throat Region?
I’m a 25-year-old female and I suspect that I might have a muscle knot located in my neck or throat region, specifically on the sternocleidomastoid muscle. I underwent an ultrasound at my physician's office, and thankfully, the results didn’t indicate anything concerning. However, I'm curious to know if it is typical to identify a visible muscle knot in this area. When I apply pressure to it, I feel pain radiating down my arm on the same side, although, apart from that, it doesn’t hurt much at rest. I’m not on any medications, and I do smoke occasionally, though I fluctuate in frequency. I am actively working towards quitting soon.