Does this sound like a hormonal headache or something else?

[BrightLady]

I have had a very strange headache for the last week or so. It doesn't feel unfamiliar (I get lots of headaches) but the difference is it isn't shifting. For context, I just finished my period. But nothing has changed.

It feels like there's not really any pain (though it can develop by the evening) but a weird lethargy, a heaviness. My job involves a lot of conceptual thinking and I can't do it, for example. I havent been able to concentrate this week. Very tired by the evening. It's been days and days and it's not moving or changing - help!

I've been to the GP with similar feelings before and been told I'm just busy. I know it's not that because I can FEEL something and I know how I should feel normally. Do I just have to ride it out and accept it's a hormonal headache that will eventually shift? Does it sound familiar to anybody?

Little bump

Last desperate bump 😂

Could it be dehydration?

Or a cold type virus? Sometimes they come with a lingering headache

Thank you! I've been drinking loads of water but I'll up it and hope it's that

It could be viral as suggested. I feel like that from time to time and only realise after that I likely had a virus, one not bad enough to stop me working etc but enough so you notice.
I’d see how you go on this week, get loads of rest and sleep, eat well, drink lots of water and rest up. If no improvement go see your GP x

Thanks I hadn't considered a non-hormonal reason! I'll give it another week and see how I go. It's really annoying

Does it happen every month? Is it related to your menstrual cycle? I experience a 3-day on/off headache every month at the same time. I'm sure it's a hormonal migraine, but it's not particularly responsive to painkillers and it's very annoying.

If it’s happening just after your period I wonder if it could be related to a drop in iron levels? They often go down at this time, particularly with heavy period.

Thank you, the gp said my iron levels were good but I guess they can fluctuate?

@Bookridden some version of it does seem to happen most months, but it's a day here or there whereas this won't shift

Agree re the no response to painkillers