Tag: headache

HEADACHE

Headache is a common problem that does not allow us to concentrate on our work. Nothing can take away the throbbing pain that headache causes. It may be caused due to injury, stress, eye strain, anxiety, or other medical conditions. Headache is called Cephalgia in medical terms. Many people suffer this discomfort frequently and don’t pay attention to it. But this simple headache may cause serious illnesses if left untreated. 

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A HEADACHE?

Our brain can recognize pain in various parts of the body. A headache is caused by the swelling of the blood vessels present in and around the brain. Most headaches occur in the nerves and muscles of the head and neck region. These nerves and muscles generate signals and send them to the brain which makes us feel the pain.

TYPES OF HEADACHES

Headaches are of two types – Primary headache and Secondary headache.

PRIMARY HEADACHE

There are types of primary headaches. However, some common types include

  1. Tension headache – It is the most common type which is caused due to stress and tension in the muscles of the head. It may start with a slow onset of moderate pain. It usually hurts on or around both sides of the head, in the back neck, and head. It usually goes away on its own but sometimes may need a pain reliever. For prolonged pain and chronic conditions, a doctor’s advice is required.
  2. Migraine – Migraine headaches are associated with throbbing pain along with some symptoms like nausea or vomiting, sensitivity and can last for several hours to few days. It may be caused also due to genetic reasons. Rescue medicine is prescribed by doctors to get immediate relief from the pain and preventive medicines to prevent future occurrences.
  3. Clustered headache – It is least common when compared with the other two types. It is characterized by sudden pain in any one side of the head and face. It occurs multiple times in a day and stays for 1-3 hours each time. It may be caused due to alcohol intake or tobacco usage. Treatment includes lifestyle changes and prescribed medication by the doctor.

SECONDARY HEADACHE

Secondary headaches occur because of any underlying issue or mental condition. It must be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible as it may create life-threatening situations at times. It may be caused due to bleeding of the blood vessels in the brain, tumors, abscesses, or high blood pressure. Symptoms include pain during changing postures, chewing food, etc. There are many subtypes of this headache according to the affected area and symptoms. It must be given at most care to avoid worsening of the condition.

SITUATIONS THAT NEED IMMEDIATE HELP

Sometimes headaches may be a symptom of a serious issue and occur to warn us of the disorder. If it is accompanied by drowsiness, seizures or fits, changes in vision, etc. then immediate consultation of a physician is mandatory.

CARE AND CURE

  • A healthy balanced diet of fruits and vegetables may help to stay fit and reduce the intensity.
  • Stress management relaxations and lifestyle changes can bring betterment.
  • Some counter medicines could be taken and soothing herbs such as peppermint, eucalyptus, flax seeds reduce pain as they have pain-relieving properties.

MIGRAINE- A Severe headache

Migraine is a medical condition described by severe recurring and intense headache. There can also be sensory changes called as aura. Aura includes visual disturbances like flashing lights, seeing zigzag pattern or a temporary vision loss. Other symptoms are nausea, stress, anxiety, hormonal changes, lack of sleep, vomiting, nasal congestion, sweating, diarrhea etc. Migraine affects the capacity to perform regular works due to pain. Sensitivity to light and sound may also increase. It is 3 times more common in women than men and affects more than 10% of the population worldwide. Migraine effects may vary from person to person.

HOW MIGRAINE IS DIFFERENT FROM NORMAL HEADACHE

Even though it is difficult to differentiate between the normal headache and a migraine, the intensity of pain may tell something about that. Migraine pain sometimes can be so severe that patient may need hospitalization which is not seen in the cases of normal headaches. Normal headaches tend to occur in both sides of the head. Migraine headaches can also occur in both sides, but majority instances include pain in only one part of the head. In normal headache you may feel pressure instead of throbbing which happens in migraine cases. Normal headaches are may be due to stress and worry or tiredness. But reason for migraine is unclear.

as already said, the cause of migraine is unknown. Some suspect that genetic features play a role in migraine. But it can be said that they arise mainly because of the changes in the way nerves communicate, loss of balance in chemicals and dilation of blood vessels in the head. But migraine can be triggered by hormonal changes, inadequate hydration, change in diet and some emotional triggers. Some medications can also cause it as side effects. Strong smells, loud noises or tiredness and lack of sleep also trigger migraine.

treatment

There is no cure for migraine. But medications can control or reduce pain and other symptoms. The frequency of the headache can also be reduced from the medication.

HOME REMIDIES TO REDUCE PAIN

Effective stress management and a good sleep habit will help to manage the pain. An improvement in the diet can also help. A regular practice of yoga and workouts may help but don’t do them while having pain. It may increase the pain. During pain staying in a dark quiet room or taking a good sleep will definitely help. Putting icepacks on forehead, neck and shoulders will help to manage the pain.

SOME FACTS ABOUT MIGRAINE
  • Migraine is found to be most common in the people belonging to the age group between 18 to 44 years.
  • Migraine tends to run in families.
  • It is the 6th most disabling illness in the world.
  • People who suffer from migraine are prone to depression and anxiety.
  • Majority of the migraine sufferers remain undiagnosed and majority people do not seek medication as well.
  • Migraine can be related to menstrual cycle as well.
  • Children can also get migraine.
  • There are surgical procedures available for migraine treatment.
  • migraines without headache and aura are also possible.