I have had migraines since childhood, I got a concussion at 5 years old which exacerbated or caused the issue, my earliest memory of a true migraine was at 7 years old when it was triggered by a strong smell.
About three years ago I dealt with carotid artery pain for a year straight. It was unmistakeable to me- only my artery hurting on my neck, up and down, pulsating pain, tender to the touch, nothing else in the neck hurting. Radiating to my jaw and my shoulder/chest. I was extremely stressed at a new job. I was not getting proper help or treatment because I was not given enough time off, until I had to ultimately quit. The doctor insisted it was my glands hurting and we did ultrasounds and they were clear.
Slowly my stress levels and routine changed and so did the pain. Since then I felt it sparingly, like for a moment on a long bike ride in the hot Texas summer. Or for a moment during a migraine episode. No more than 3/10
Until today, for over an hour it has been hurting like it did three years ago, wavering between 6/10-8/10 in moments. It definitely has reached 9 and 10 in the past but I am trying to be realistic about the levels. It's difficult to endure this pain, it feels like my artery is a balloon ready to pop. * Editing to add that I had a migraine lasting three days that stopped yesterday.
I have heard much about carotidynia being connected to migraines. I am simply wondering of anyone elses experience with this. :( I am trying to make an appointment asap. I really do hope it's me just truly mistaking the pain, but it feels like my body is screaming at me.