DH feels like head about to explode - really worried

[summerholsdreamin]

Have made DH make an emergency GP appointment for 1st thing in morning but would really appreciate any advice in the meantime.

About a week ago he started complaining that the base of his skull felt bruised. The pain continued and he started finding it difficult to turn his head after a few days.

Last night he couldn't sleep for the pain and today he left work at lunch as no painkiller (even co-codamol) was touching it. By this point the pain was radiating through his whole head.

He has finally fallen asleep after clutching his head for the last 2 hours but I have a feeling that as soon as the pain relief wears off he'll be in pain again.

Initially, he thought it might have been a trapped nerve but now the pain has moved not so sure. I suggested it could be some sort of migraine but I suffer and at worst the pain is only there for a couple of days.

Any advice gratefully received as really worried - obviously will take action if things develop further overnight

So sorry for delay in updating.....
Eventually an OOH doctor arrived at 3am after explaining DHs symptoms to 6 different call operators! He did some basic tests and thankfully ruled out anything sinister. Gave DH a big shot of Tramadol in the backside and advised to keep GP appt for 1st thing in morning. The pain did subside enough for him to get a bit of sleep but was bad again by morning.

GP diagnosed 'rye neck' and a torn muscle in neck had started bleeding, hence the gradual increase in pain. Prescribed more Tramadol and rest.

So now on about day 14 and although DH still in A LOT of pain, am hoping that it will gradually ease.

big thank you to all you lovely MNERs for your advice in the early hours. Frankly you lot were a damn sight more helpful than 111

Will he try some reflexology? May help...someone who visits and can come to him?

So he hasn't had an MRI or CT scan? If his head continues to be so painful I would insist that he has a scan to get a better picture of what's happening.

That sounds like a good idea...how did they rule out anything sinister with bloods? I hope that is possible for ops sake.

Have to say still worried.... As soon as the Tramadol wears off the pain is just as bad.

Will speak to DH about 2nd opinion as our GP is well known for being pompous and brushing symptoms under carpet 🤔. He gave DH a diagnosis within 20 seconds of us arriving in his room!

I really wouldn't be happy that he hasn't had any tests so far. Had he done anything before the pain that would indicate he had damaged the muscle (heavy lifting?)

Could you ring 111 again and see what they advise. Because you've called them a few times about the same issue they should offer you either a call from a GP or connect you with a clinical advisor.

I really think you need to push for more now.

Definitely would advise a second opinion.

Needing tramadol for that long isn't normal. I have to say that is an "interesting" diagnosis from your GP.

Spent afternoon in a packed A&E. Doctor who saw DH took a quick history and checked his head/neck movement; strength in his arms etc. Didn't take temp/blood pressure until I prompted her, which was slightly raised on both counts but didn't concern her.
She concluded that as DH wasn't 'unwell' the symptoms didn't indicate anything sinister like a bleed and that he didn't warrant any emergency scan. She concurred with GP that it was muscular and that DH was in so much pain because the muscles are in continual spasm.

Packed him off with co-codamol, diazepan and ibrupofen, telling him pain could continue for up to 4-6 weeks and to see GP for scan referral if pain continues beyond then.

There we are then...

Christ alive that's a miserable prognosis. Off your tits on pills and in agony for a month more. Your poor DH.

I know.... DH runs his own business and is despairing about what's going to happen. Mental note to get him to investigate private health care, 6 weeks for an MRI on NHS.

Spasm is unbearable, but it does ease reasonably quickly with ibuprofen and diazepam etc. Then just keeping it calm and relaxed while it heals.

I had a very similar experience; I was admitted & had CAT scat & lumbar puncture - diagnosed with a status migraine.
It was nothing of the sort.
Went to Osteopath & within 4 seconds I was virtually pain free (she cracked my neck & back which sounded like an explosion) & the relief made me cry. Had a few more sessions & it's been amazing.
Who knows if it's the same thing but maybe worth a call. (If you are anywhere near Sheffield, try Active Healthcare on Ecclesall Rd!!)

Just a point in the tramadol - it is entirely common for it to be prescribed for long term and chronic pain, not just short term need. It does, unfortunately, cause constipation after a while, so be ready for that.

I'm sorry they haven't come up with anything. I can't offer a diagnosis as I'm in the same boat with a pain which comes and goes, but causes massive head pain, frozen neck and frozen shoulder. An MRI showed no nerve impingement, so they was the end of that as far as the NHS is concerned. Physio achieved no improvement so it's tramadol or nothing.

Just a point in the tramadol - it is entirely common for it to be prescribed for long term and chronic pain, not just short term need.

^ this.

Poor DH 👎🏻 maybe investigate a private MRI it may not cost as much as you think.

DH says he is very touched by everyone's concern and you are all welcome to come round to look after him