Headaches
What are Headaches?
Headaches, known as cephalgia, are defined as the pain experienced in the head particularly behind the head, the back of the upper neck, and above the eyes or ears. There are two types, namely, primary (not associated with an underlying medical condition) and secondary (associated with an underlying health condition like brain tumors, meningitis and strokes). Several causes can be attributed to the severity, frequency and duration of cephalgia episodes so it is important to be as specific as possible about these aspects for diagnostic purposes. The more definitive the diagnosis as to the type of cephalgia, the more effective the treatment plan will be.
We must emphasize that the headaches discussed here are the primary types, which can be managed with several treatment options. Secondary cephalgia should be treated by addressing the underlying medical condition first.
Causes of Headaches
For primary cephalgia, there are three major types:
- Tension cephalgia is the most common type, with up to 90% of adults experiencing its symptoms at some point in their lives. Its most likely cause is the contraction of the muscles covering the skull, with the most affected areas being the base of the head, the forehead, and the temples.
- Migraines affect approximately 28 million Americans, including both children and adults. These cephalgia attacks may be triggered by hormonal changes in females, such as during pregnancy; foods like alcohol, aged cheeses, and aspartame; stress; sensory stimuli like bright lights, unpleasant odors, and secondhand smoke; changes in sleep patterns and the environment; and medications such as vasodilators.
- Cluster cephalgia is relatively rare, affecting about 1 in 1,000 individuals. Its cause is still unknown, although scientists believe abnormal activity in the hypothalamus may be responsible. This type also tends to run in families and may be triggered by medications, substances, and environmental changes.
Symptoms of Headaches
The symptoms of headaches will vary depending on the type.
- The symptoms of tension cephalgia include mild, bilateral, and sporadic pain that feels like a band-like pressure around the head, particularly over the eyebrows. Despite the pain, you may still be able to function normally.
- The signs of migraines include throbbing, pounding, or pulsating pain that begins on one side of the head and may spread to both sides. You may also experience symptoms such as nausea, changes in vision, and pain that worsens with movement.
- The symptoms of cluster headaches usually last for weeks or months, with reprieves lasting months or years. Each attack can bring excruciating pain around or behind one eye, which may become watery, red, and inflamed, while the nose may become runny and congested.
Treatment of Headaches
Fortunately, you have several options to relieve the pain of a cephalgia attack. You must consult with your doctor especially on matters of medications to lessen side effects, drug interactions, and risks. Your doctor will suggest:
- Muscle relaxation exercises
- Sufficient sleep with normal sleep patterns
- Avoiding your cephalgia triggers
- Pain relievers like aspirin, acetaminophen, and naproxen
- A healthy diet, exercise, and a stress management program
Your headaches can be effectively managed but you must work with your doctor to do so.
Contact HEALTHPOINTE for further information regarding Headaches. If you or someone you know are suffering from said symptoms, be sure to visit one of our many locations in Southern California. Remember, we are always here to treat you!