I’m sorry to hear that you’re experiencing persistent headaches and dizziness. Given that you’ve had these symptoms for a week and have tried various medications without relief, it’s important to consider a few key factors and potential next steps.

Differential Diagnosis

1. Tension-Type Headache: Often associated with stress, muscle tension, or poor posture. These headaches can cause a dull, aching sensation and may be accompanied by neck stiffness.

2. Migraine: Migraines can present with severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, and may include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. Dizziness can also be a component of migraine.

3. Cluster Headache: These are less common but can cause severe pain around one eye and may be accompanied by autonomic symptoms like nasal congestion or tearing.

4. Sinus Headache: If you have sinus congestion, this could be contributing to your headache. However, pseudoephedrine typically helps with this, so it may not be the primary cause.

5. Vestibular Disorders: Conditions affecting the inner ear can lead to dizziness and headaches. This includes vestibular migraine or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

6. Secondary Causes: It’s crucial to rule out secondary causes of headache, such as:
– Intracranial pathology: Tumors, hemorrhages, or other structural issues.
– Infections: Meningitis or other central nervous system infections.
– Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure can sometimes present with headache and dizziness.

Next Steps

1. Seek Medical Attention: Given the duration and severity of your symptoms, I strongly recommend that you consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. They may perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies (like a CT or MRI) to rule out serious conditions.

2. Keep a Symptom Diary: Document the characteristics of your headache (location, intensity, duration, triggers, associated symptoms) and any other relevant details (e.g., changes in vision, hearing, or balance). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider.

3. Consider Non-Pharmacological Approaches: While medications are important, non-pharmacological strategies can also be beneficial. These may include:
– Hydration: Ensure you are well-hydrated.
– Rest: Adequate sleep and rest can help alleviate symptoms.
– Relaxation Techniques: Stress management through techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises may provide relief.

4. Review Medications: Since you’ve taken multiple medications, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. Some medications can cause rebound headaches if taken too frequently.

Conclusion

Persistent headaches and dizziness warrant a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause. Please prioritize seeking medical attention to ensure you receive the appropriate care and management for your symptoms. Your health and well-being are paramount, and a healthcare professional can provide the necessary support and treatment options tailored to your situation.