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Headache/pressure when lying on stomach

When I lie down to read a book with my son at night, I usually lie on my stomach, propped up on my elbows.  Over the past couple weeks when I've done this, I get this sudden sensation of immense pressure in my head.   The pain is primarily from the top of my head down to just below my eyes.  I also hear "noises" in my ears....like wind blowing or something.  It hurts to try and read to him, so I usually put my head down on the bed for a couple minutes, and it goes away.  I do not recall ever having these before.  Currently taking Wellbutrin and Cymbalta for depression, GAD and OCD.  Also taking Zyrtec for seasonal allergies.  I have recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea, and I do get headaches when I wake up, but I think those are more from the sleep apnea.

What could be causing the feeling of pressure and pain in my head when I lie down on my stomach?  Any information/help would be greatly appreciated.
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Avatar universal
Hi there I'm having a problem when I lie on my stomach I have pressure in my head when I get up and walk it feels better when I sit down I get neck Pain that radiates to back of head n I mean terrible sweating from head to face been for xrays on spine nothing been for stomach xrays doc says wind travells up to my shoulders that what's causes the pain can any one tel me if dey have similar situtation pls
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Avatar universal
I am having the same experience as ljholder - all the same symptoms when lying on stomach on elbows when head is upright or higher. it is very intense pressure and pain. i've been avoiding the position but i think i'll see my doctor about it.  it feels like something is being blocked or pinched. i am on no meds and haven't had any head trauma. i'm a dancer - in good shape. i'll let you know what i find.
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3 Comments
same here with me... no injuries or meds, this just started last year.  first time was super intense and I got nauseous.  as soon as I lay my head down, all the pressure and pain subsides (typically centered towards top of my head, right side), then I can actually return to the same position without much problem.  I've been getting migraines occasionally surrounding menstruation for a couple years now - on the verge of a headache today after having a little bit of wine earlier; have issues with allergies (taking flonase)... maybe dehydration?  but no injuries, per se; no other meds.  anyway... same exact symptoms.  I'm 40 and this started sometime in past 5-10 months.  thought i'd post for posterity sake... everyone's posts are pretty old.
Hi, I'm 15 and I have had the same problems with intense pain and pressure in my head when/ after I lie on my stomach, as well as this, whenever I get up quickly off my bed or after sitting or lying on the floor my head spins and I get nauseous and my vision goes blurry to the point where I have to stop and lean on something in order to stop myself from falling over, but that is when 'it' is at its worse. I have had these problems for what seems like a few years so I have sort of got used to the effects. I experience these problems mostly when I am doing something like surfing/ body boarding which means I have to spend a long time on my stomach, leaning on my elbows. Also I experience these things when I do floor exercises that involve me lying on my stomach. I have no previous injuries (that I know of) and I do not take any regular medication, I have never talked to a specialist or doctor about it, its just something that I have had for a while and delt with. Also I don't know if everyone gets this but my ears often start randomly ringing, but it goes away after a little while or if I yawn.
Did anyone figure out what this is? I have the same symptoms, increased pressure in my head when lying on my stomach whooshing in my ears if it gets really bad, oddly my lower back seems to hurt when I do get this increased head pressure.  Hearing usually becomes muffled.  Feels like something is being pinched off and blood can’t flow out ???
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Ok I will thanks.
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Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,
Thanks for the update. If the physical examination was fine, then try not to worry about any damage. Nerve issues will be seen with direct physical/neurological examination. Continue your medications and observe for any additional symptoms. Take care and do keep us posted.
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Avatar universal
I have had back,neck and head pain since the accident,on and off,its not as frequent as it used to be,but there are some simple things that will irritate my back..I forgot to mention that I also had a thoracic lumbar spine injury (soft tissue). I have had acupuncture, anti - inflammatries, physiotherapy with two different physio's, tylex and tradol!!and im still the same.
I went to the doctor last week,and he made me feel like an idiot... I told him that when I lie down on my stomach and lift my head I get this pressure and pain and my hearing goes, he checked my throat, my ears and pushed his fingers under my eyes and told me I was fine.
I just think that I have done some nerve damage or something, and find it more frustrating than anything that I still suffer with it!

Thanks for replying! :)
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Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,
How are you? It is possible that your previous accident contributes to your symptom since post traumatic headache is common symptom after a head injury. Rest, muscle relaxant and pain medication may help provide relief. However, if it persists, further evaluation, including imaging studies and blood tests are important to determine the underlying cause. Check with your doctor for proper management. Take care and do keep us posted.
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