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Infection and headache

Sent to Health Experts June 16, 2006 9:12 p.m.

I recently had a tooth removed and the root system extended into the sinus cavity. The removal of the tooth also resulted in the exposure of the roots of the tooth beside the extracted one...thus causing a considerable amount of pain. Shortly after the tooth was removed, I developed very sensitive lymph nodes in the neck on the side that the tooth was extracted. My dentist has sent me a Z-pack for an infection though none was apparent to him on Wednesday of this week. On Wednesday, he also desensitized the root system of the neighboring tooth. Yesterday, I began having an extremely painful headache on that side of my head....to include the sinus cavity, ear and temples.
This morning, I also noticed that the sensitive nodes had apparently cause red spots on the skin of the neck. In the early afternoon, the headache became more intense and the spots had grown to an approx. 3" blotch that resembles an insect bite. My jaw is very sensitive and it is difficult to open my mouth. I have taken 10m. hydrocodone and have received very little relief from the headache. I am a 59 year old female. I have a history of PAD. I also have fibromyalgia and disc disease. I am 5'4" and approximately 130 lbs. My question...is this a medical problem? Should I seek immediate help? Or can it continue to be treated by my dentist? Since I live in a rural community my only source for medical treatment would be my local ER. Please advise me as to where and what kind of help I need.
Thank you so much.
Cheryl

Optional Information:
Female , Age: 59

Already Tried:
Hydrocodone

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $15

Answer
June 16, 2006 9:54 p.m. (41 minutes and 28 seconds later)

ACCEPTED

You should get to an Emergency department, in my opinion, and immediately. The fact that you had a tooth removed that extended into the sinuses, some complications already, and antibiotics without any resolution (in fact, it sounds like things are getting worse) makes me very concerned. Your headache, these "spots" as you describe them, and the fact that you are in increasing pain lead me to suspect an infection that is flourishing, potentially within the soft tissues and the bones of your jaw or face. These are emergencies, as infections of these structures can be very bad and very hard to eradicate. They can eventually involve the brain (meningitis, encephalitis) and be life-threatening.

Go to an Emergency Room tonight, and be seen. They will be able to give you a thorough exam, order the appropriate testing, and begin whatever treatment that you will require. But go tonight.

I hope this helps, and I hope that they are able to help you feel better. Please let me know if you have any further questions - I'm more than happy to help. Take care - Dr. Fay

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