Headache pain when coughing

[audnits]

Hi, I'm new on the site. I have been getting pain/throbbing sensation in my head when I cough or try to clear the mucus from my chest. I have severe COPD - Emphysema. I have been using a flutter device and wonder if this has caused the pain in my head. Just wondering if anyone else has suffered from this.

[Ergendl]

Hi, audnits, and welcome to our great site. I don't use a flutter so can't comment about that. I can get headaches when my oxygen levels have dropped, which thankfully now doesn't happen very often. I can also get them when some of my neck muscles have been pulled. Either of these might be happening when you cough. You could try checking your neck to see if there are any sore muscles, and give them a rub. It would also be a good idea to talk with your GP or Respiratory Nurse about the headaches.

[audnits in reply to Ergendl]

Thanks for your reply. I did phone my GP yesterday and spoke to the practice nurse whose advice was to use my nebuliser instead of my inhaler. .! I phoned again this morning to request a home visit as I can't get out my house without my daughter who works full time as a special needs teacher and finds it difficult getting time off. The on duty GP called me at lunchtime to say she didn't think the throbbing at the base of my scull and the headaches when I coughed were raising any red flags. She advised taking paracetamol every four hours and monitor how I felt. If I was worried over the weekend to call NHS24. Can honestly say this was not very reassuring. Fortunately having rested most of today I'm feeling slightly better and my "patience of a saint" daughter is calling in on me later. Sorry if this went on a bit!!

[Ergendl in reply to audnits]

Glad you're feeling a bit better today.

Don't worry about going on a bit. It's good to get things off your chest. Have you though about getting an sp02 finger monitor? It's possible to order one through Amazon. That would help you keep track of your oxygen levels.

All the best.

[audnits in reply to Ergendl]

Hi, I do have an SP02 monitor and agree it is very useful. The confusing thing to me over the last couple of days - my O2 level has been 92-93, which for me is actually really good. I have severe COPD - Emphysema O2 levels can be 89-90 normally. I have tested as much as possible and the throbbing at the back of my scull has certainly eased a bit. With a bit more luck tomorrow will be even better. Thanks again for your replies.