Recurrent paroxysmal headache
Repeated episodes of headache with rapid onset, reaching a peak within minutes and of short duration (less than one hour) with pain that is throbbing, pulsating, or bursting in quality.
Conditions associated with recurrent paroxysmal headache
The following conditions have been associated with recurrent paroxysmal headache in medical literature. This is informational and not a diagnosis.
Arnold-Chiari malformation type I
Arnold-Chiari malformation type I is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and sign...
Hereditary pheochromocytoma-paraganglioma
Hereditary pheochromocytoma-paraganglioma is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms ...
MELAS
MELAS is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Non-functioning paraganglioma
Non-functioning paraganglioma is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Paroxysmal hemicrania
Paroxysmal hemicrania is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is a medical condition that may be associated with various sympt...
Sporadic pheochromocytoma/secreting paraganglioma
Sporadic pheochromocytoma/secreting paraganglioma is a medical condition that may be associated with various s...
Tests providers may use to investigate recurrent paroxysmal headache
When investigating recurrent paroxysmal headache, a healthcare provider may order one or more of the following laboratory tests. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Urinalysis
Examines urine content to help detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes....
Symptoms commonly seen alongside recurrent paroxysmal headache
Dysphagia
Difficulty in swallowing....
Fatigue
A subjective feeling of tiredness characterized by a lack of energy and motivation....
Fever
Body temperature elevated above the normal range....
Headache
Cephalgia, or pain sensed in various parts of the head, not confined to the area of distribution of any nerve....
Muscle weakness
Reduced strength of muscles....
Seizure
A seizure is an intermittent abnormality of nervous system physiology characterized by a transient occurrence ...
When to seek care
Seek care from a qualified healthcare provider if recurrent paroxysmal headache is severe, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by concerning symptoms. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the symptom recurrent paroxysmal headache mean?
Recurrent paroxysmal headache is a health sign or symptom described in medical literature. Repeated episodes of headache with rapid onset, reaching a peak within minutes and of short duration (less than one hour) with pain that is throbbing, pulsating, or bursting in quality.
Which conditions are associated with recurrent paroxysmal headache?
Recurrent paroxysmal headache has been reported in association with 7 conditions in the medical literature we index, including Arnold-Chiari malformation type I, Hereditary pheochromocytoma-paraganglioma, MELAS, Non-functioning paraganglioma, Paroxysmal hemicrania. These associations do not mean you have any of these conditions.
Should I see a doctor about recurrent paroxysmal headache?
You should discuss any persistent or concerning symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider. This website does not provide diagnosis. If you have severe symptoms or signs of a medical emergency, seek care immediately.