head cramps? + anxiety + auras etc.

[mirandaly]

For the past week or so I've been experiencing what I can only describe as head cramps... although I'm not sure that's actually what it is. Basically it is just really sharp pains, usually on the left side of my head just over my ear, but occasionally over my right eye, that are almost overwhelming but only last around 30 seconds at a time.

As far as I know I've never had migraines.

But I have seen auras all my life & I have never been able to figure out if they are due to migraines or synaesthesia or anything. I'm starting to think it might be related to this, except that this is so recent.

Also recently, within the past month or so, I've been experiencing other visual things like brightly colored lights moving in squiggly patterns & then vanishing in kind of a burst.

Lately I've been having a lot of anxiety about work, and I think that might be related, too.

I've always had problems with anxiety: almost obsessive-compulsive tendencies (but not severe), shaking, twitching, etc. I've considered seeking treatment but never really thought it was quite bad enough to spend the money on for medication or therapy.

So my questions are: do you think all of these could be related? Do you think I should be seeking help? What could be causing the auras/lights & the head cramps?

[janice18]

Hi,
By chance, I read your post.  I am a 35 year old female and have experienced the same short, intense, throbbing head cramps every once in a while since I was a teenager.  I have no idea why.  I have not come across anyone else who gets them.
I have also been able to see auras (with my eyes) since shortly after the head cramps started.  Could be related or could be a hormonal/stress connection.  I have had my eyes checked regularly and there doesn't seem to be a connection. Fortunately these are not regular enough to interfere with my life.  I hope that your quality of life has improved since this post.
Cheers
Jan

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

If these head cramps are occurring just before your periods are due it is quite possible that these are due to premenstrual syndrome.
Migraine headaches are also known to occur more frequently in women around the time of their periods.
I would suggest you to limit your caffeine intake and eat healthy well balanced diet and exercise regularly. Take care!

[mirandaly]

My mom suggested that it might have something to do with estrogen levels changing, too. It seems like there are a lot of possibilities here!

[mirandaly]

Oh I might also add that although I do see auras & I have heard it is a symptom of migraine, I do not feel that i am seeing them with my eyes, if that makes sense. I see them in my head, it's not a feeling like a vibe or anything, but I can see them even if my eyes are closed.

Also I'm 18 years old, I don't know how much that has to do with it.

& I sometimes wonder if I'm being a hypochondriac, but these things are beginning to affect my ability to function in everyday life.

Thanks for your help!

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

How are you?
Sharp stabbing headaches in the orbital, parietal or temple area lasting for a few seconds raises the suspicion of ice pick headaches,
These headaches come out of nowhere and are extremely terrifying. They are more common in people suffering from migraine.
The visual aura symptoms that you are experiencing could be because of migraine. Sometimes aura is the only symptom of migraine. Anxiety and stress will only make it worse.
An ophthalmic examination to rule out eye diseases may also be helpful. Please consult a neurologist at the earliest. Take care!