Pain in my head when I cough

[Patrick Findaro]

Experiencing head pain when you cough is a condition known as a cough headache. It can have several possible causes, ranging from benign (not harmful) to more serious conditions. Here's a breakdown: Pain in my head when I cough

1. Primary Cough Headache

• What it is: Benign and not linked to any underlying disease.
• Symptoms:
  • Sudden, sharp pain in the head triggered by coughing, sneezing, laughing, or straining.
  • Pain typically lasts a few seconds to a few minutes.
  • Often occurs on both sides of the head.
• Cause: The exact cause isn't fully understood but may involve temporary pressure changes in the head.
• Treatment: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to reduce symptoms.

2. Secondary Cough Headache

• What it is: Caused by an underlying condition.
• Possible Causes:
  • Chiari malformation: A condition where brain tissue pushes into the spinal canal, disrupting fluid flow.
  • Brain aneurysm or blood vessel abnormalities: Can lead to increased intracranial pressure.
  • Sinus infection: Pressure buildup in the sinuses during coughing can radiate pain to the head.
  • High blood pressure: Spikes during coughing may lead to temporary head pain.
• Symptoms:
  • Pain may last longer (minutes to hours) compared to primary cough headache.
  • Accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, vision changes, nausea, or weakness.
• Treatment: Depends on the underlying cause. Diagnosis often involves imaging studies like a CT or MRI.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

• The pain is new or severe.
• It’s accompanied by other symptoms like fever, neck stiffness, confusion, or vision changes.
• The pain persists or worsens over time.
• You have a history of brain or vascular conditions.

Let me know if you'd like guidance on how to manage the symptoms or what steps to take next!