HomeAnswersNeurologytension type headacheI am a cocaine user and have felt pressure on both sides of my head. Are these tension headaches?

Can long term cocaine use cause tension headaches?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At June 29, 2023
Reviewed AtMarch 12, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been a recreational cocaine user for five years. I snort it through the nose. Recently after doing it, I have had pressure felt on both sides of my head. It does not hurt really, but it is not constant. I have stopped using drugs for a few weeks but I continue to have this pressure. I went to urgent care and a doctor said these were tension headaches. Will this pressure on my head go away on its own or should I get a brain scan?

Please help.

Answered by Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I think this is a benign tension-type headache. There are no signs of a stroke or any serious neurological complications related to cocaine intake. So, try to relax and do not worry about it. I recommend checking thyroid hormone levels for possible imbalances. In the meantime, I also recommend taking regular Magnesium supplements to help improve your situation. If headaches worsen, I recommend performing a brain MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).

Kindly consult a specialist, talk with them, and take medicines with their consent.

I hope this has helped you.

Thanks and regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Aida Abaz Quka
Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Neurology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Neurology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy