Just Answer Just Answer
Ask A Question  -  Help  -  Register  -  Login   

Ask Your Health Question. Health Experts Answer You ASAP
(Not a Health Question?)

Question

My 76-year-old mother is in excellent health, but recently ...


Sent to Health Experts August 12, 2006 6:21 p.m.
My 76-year-old mother is in excellent health, but recently started experiencing sharp bursts of pain in her forehead whenever she sneezes or bends over, lowering her head. Her doctor gave her a "brain scan" (mom's term) and found nothing. This symptom has occurred for the past 6 months or so.

Optional Information:
Female , Age: 76

Already Tried:
nothing
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $8   
Answer
August 12, 2006 7:35 p.m. (1 hour and 13 minutes later) 		REPLIED Check Mark
Hello,

I would suggest thst she have a consult with an ENT (ear, nose & throat soecialist). It may be that she has a sinusitis which is causing her symptoms. It would be a good idea to rule out nasal polyps as well.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chronic-sinusitis/DS00232

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/nasal-polyps/DS00498

__________________
Deborah  -- Nurse (RN) -- 98% Positive Feedback on 2319 Health Accepts
Registered NP - Multispeciality
Reply to Deborah
Sent August 12, 2006 8:39 p.m. (1 hour and 4 minutes later)
The pain she is feeling is acute and localized and hits her at the top of her forehead, only when she bends over. She has none of the other symptons of sinusitis nor nasal polyps. I am more suspicious of a cerebral aneurysm, but can't understand the connection to her bending over. She has no history of sinus problems, but her dad and sister died of strokes. But wouldn't an aneurysm show up on a "brain scan"? I don't think she's seen a neurologist, either. Maybe time to insist on a specialist?
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
August 12, 2006 8:48 p.m. (8 minutes and 47 seconds later) 		REPLIED Check Mark
The sinuses are located in that region and yes, an aneursym would definitely show up in a CT of the brain.

The positional change associated with headache could be related to hypertension. Does she have a history of high blood pressure? Also, I wouldn't dismiss the sinuses altogether, as positional changes can bring on headache pain as well.

I consult with an neurologist would be appropriate for an accurate diagnosis.

Edited by Two_Westies on August 12 2006 at 8:49pm

__________________
Deborah  -- Nurse (RN) -- 98% Positive Feedback on 2319 Health Accepts
Registered NP - Multispeciality
Reply to Deborah
Sent August 12, 2006 9:21 p.m. (32 minutes and 31 seconds later)
Her blood pressure readings are good. I will get her to a doctor ASAP with questions about all of our considerations: the sinuses, aneurysms, and nasal polyps and insist on referral to an ENT and/or neurologist if the internist is reluctant to thoroughly investigate. Thank you for your help. And thank God for nurses!
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
August 12, 2006 9:29 p.m. (8 minutes and 27 seconds later) 		ACCEPTED Check Mark
Thank you, I am hopeful you found the info useful. I ruled out the most common issues. I am concerned due to her advanced age. It may be nothing and the doctor will offer a simple explanation. Taking her to the doctor will provide an accurate diagnosis and peace of mind.

Here is an article tha my be helpful:



http://www.healthatoz.com/healthatoz/Atoz/dc/caz/neur/hach/alert07312001.jsp

__________________
Deborah  -- Nurse (RN) -- 98% Positive Feedback on 2319 Health Accepts
Registered NP - Multispeciality

Think you can answer this question?
 Login or  Become an Expert









DISCLAIMER: You acknowledge that any information you may obtain from individuals you contact through use of the Just Answer service comes from those individuals, not from Just Answer!, and that Just Answer is not in any way responsible for any of the information these third parties may supply. The site and services are provided "as is" with no warranty and no representations are made regarding the qualification of an Expert. Responses and comments on Just Answer! are for general information and are not intended to substitute for informed professional advice (such as medical, legal, investment or accounting) and do not establish a professional-client relationship. Just Answer! is not intended or designed to address EMERGENCY QUESTIONS which should be directed immediately by telephone or in-person to qualified professionals. Please carefully read the Terms of Service.
   Just Answer! > Medical Questions & Online Health Advice > Throat Questions
Question List - Become an Expert - Terms of Service - Security & Privacy - About Us
© 2008 Just Answer Corp.