headaches lately

[rinaina]

I have had headaches everyday this week starting on Sunday. One was migraine strength but the others have all been dull headaches with the discomfort located across my forehead. Taking advil but for the one migraine I took Imitrix. I haven't been getting any type of headaches at all lately until this week. Can't seem to get rid of them this week though. You all know how we think......instant worry that it is something terrible. Hmmmm, thinking I should call my onc nurse. Any feedback from all of you?

[Sheila]

Rinaina

Even though you are just out of treatment, I would request a brain MRI....I don't often get headaches, but when I do, unless it is from stress or reading too much (eye strain), I get an MRI...better to be safe than sorry. Also, could it be a vision change since your chemo...chemo can do that.
Call the doc if it's lasted longer than a week....otherwise, you will continue to worry.

[rinaina]

Thanks Sheila for your input. I have also been more tired this week than my usual fatigue. Perhaps that is causing some headaches too. My eyes have continued to be a problem since chemo. They are better than before but I still have some blurriness now and again due to mucus build up due to dry eyes. Using artificial tears like it is going out of style. Still getting herceptin every 3 weeks and wondering if that could be causing any of these headaches. I am waiting to hear back from the onc nurse to see what she has to say and I go next week for herceptin and to see the onc so I will address this with him as well. I will also ask about an MRI of the brain. I always appreciate your experienced input, thank you again.

[Christine MH-UK]

I used to get alot of sinus headaches on herceptin, but if you are worried, it is best to get it checked out.

[StephN]

Sorry you are feeling bad. I get real cranky when headaches hit.
Your description sounds like how I feel when I have a sinus infection brewing.
Minus the Migraine, as I don't (thank heaven) get those.

If you tap on your brow area above and below your eyes (and cheekbones) and it hurts or is sensitive, you may want to see your GP to check and get a culture.

All the recent news about brain mets is cause for pause as well. But, check out the sinus possibility before you see your onc next week.

[rinaina]

StephN, I can relate to you getting cranky. Last night I was so cranky from these headaches that my hubby spent the entire time watching tv in a different room! He was better off there and safer there!!!! Just kidding, but I sure was in a bad mood. Waiting for a call back from my onc nurse now.

[Sherryg683]

I pretty much live with headaches that sometimes go on for over a month, it gets very draining. They use to be more like sinus headaches and in the temple area. Recently they have been more in the back of my head, into the occipital area. Now it seems the pain has migrated in between my shoulders. I have had 2 brain MRI's and all was clear. I am due for another MRI soon, I think it's very important to have the brain MRI"s because it does matter how quickly you find and treat mets in the brain. Yours are probably Herceptin related..I'm still on herceptin and it always makes my headaches increase..sherryg683

[rinaina]

Sherry, sorry you suffer from so many headaches. They can really get to you and take a lot out of you sometimes. Good to hear though that herceptin can cause the headaches and that I am not crazy. I hear conflicting reports as to whether herceptin can cause headaches. Many times we have a symptom and wonder if it is because of the herceptin...my onc nurse and onc aren't quick to blame the herceptin. Hope this finds you headache free.

[StephN]

Sherry and Rinaina -
Try getting a good massage. There are many massage therapists out there now and a good one will listen to your problem and try to work those areas in a gentle manner.

I found a local masseuse through my fitness club. She is great and only charges $50 for a full hour to club members. After my two surgeries to the back of my head last year, the massage has helped me a lot, easing my neck and shoulders and getting rid of the knots in my back.

May not solve the problem of headaches completely, but sure feels good!

[Jean]

Rinaina,
Sorry you are having those headaches....please keep us posted on what your onc. says (re: MRI of brain) ....More than likely they are just nasty headaches.

Wishing you all the best.
Jean