Headache

[PD081]

For the passed 3 weeks or so, I have had what feels like a sinus infection headache (in my forehead, just over my eyes). I was given Zithromax (a Z- pack) and it didn't help. I still have the headache.

About 2 weeks ago, I had my monthly chest x-ray and blood test (AFP, HCG, and whatever else they test). Everything was fine with the x-ray and blood test. I still can't help but be paranoid, is this headache something that could be TC related?

[Margaret]

I am not sure this would be related to TC but I would tell anyone who has a head ache for 3 weeks to call their doctor. You should not be in pain for any extended period of time. Try and stay calm and try not to panic (that will make your head feel worse I am certain), just speak with your doctor. If you are under a lot of stress that can also cause a lot of head aches. Try to take some deep breaths and find ways to relax a bit. Talk to your doctor and let us know your next step.

Good luck and feel better soon!

[Fed]

I still can't help but be paranoid, is this headache something that could be TC related?

Par for the course, my friend. The paranoia is one of the least desirable effects of being a cancer survivor. I doubt the headache is TC-related, but if it will make you more comfortable, see your GP. That may give you some peace of mind.

[PD081]

Thanks, hopefully its just a bad sinus infection..

[sldl1106]

If its sinus related, you can try using a netti pot - they sell them in Walgreens, the brand is called Sinu-Cleanse, its in a bluish colored box.

It cleans out the sinus cavity naturally - because it sounds like you have bad sinus pressure, and that's not always an infection, just a nuisance. A naturopath got my family hooked on using it, and then Dr. Oz was talking about them on Oprah last month or so.

Hope that helps.

[PD081]

Thanks. I have an appointment with my general physician on monday about this. I will ask him about a netti pot.

[Already Bald]

Do you feel like you have a little vertigo as well?
I had the same kind of headache, thought it was sinuses. I was also a little dizzy (still could drive). Tried the Z pack, sinus meds, and home remedies; nothing worked
This was post RPLND and Prior to chemo.
Ativan took care of it, it was anxiety- and it hits us all differently.
So in my case, it was TC related, but not on the cellular level thank God. A course of Ativan and some self counseling and I'm just fine now.
Good luck.

[PD081]

I don't think I have any vertigo. Sometimes my mind feels like its racing. Since getting TC, I have such terrible paranoia now, always worrying that any symptom I have is cancer related...

How long did your headache last? For me its been over 3 weeks now.

[Karen]

Any difference during the day or with certian positions (laying down vs. standing) or is it always there? OTC meds help at all? I'm glad you are getting this checked and like AB said, stress and anxiety can manifest with all kinds of physical aches and pains.

[Already Bald]

I don't think I have any vertigo. Sometimes my mind feels like its racing. Since getting TC, I have such terrible paranoia now, always worrying that any symptom I have is cancer related...

How long did your headache last? For me its been over 3 weeks now.

My headache and dizziness lasted longer than 3 weeks. Talk to your doctor about it, and if it is stress and anxiety- it will get better. And that's what it sounds like to me.

I know about the paranoid feeling you have, that is VERY COMMON with all types of cancer.
Cut out all caffine, and don't drink for a while. Take this thing day by day and talk it all out with your doctors. And don't search for all the worst case seniarios on the net, you are not one of them.
You will be fine.

[PD081]

Thanks for advice. Im gonna go easy on caffeine and drinking. Also, I saw my physician the other day and he gave me a subscription for Clarinex D. I'm gonna give that a try.

If there was something cancer related that was growing in my head (tumor), my blood tests should indicate that, right?

[djwolf75]

Wow! Me too!

I just came across this site and I am very happy to have found it!!! This whole anxiety thing about my cancer returning is majorly upsetting my life. I too have been suffering from headaches that come and go and I seem to have convinced myself it's cancer.

I have no answers for you except it sounds like you (and I) are one of many who thinks the worst. Perhaps that alone helps a bit.

I would also agree that if you want to find out worst possible scenarios on the internet, they are there waiting.

David

[petep]

I would skip all caffeine...coffee, coca cola etc...

Many that stop drinking caffeine will get headaches - for a time...but you'll be better off without it.

if you drink tea, you can steep it 20 seconds or so, dump it, and then add new hot water...this gets rid of most of the caffeine, yet will keep the flavor and most "good parts" of the tea.

Worrying is normal - there are many here...all go thru it....so don't worry too much about having these feelings...that should give you some sense of relief...

pete