About this topic
Headache is the word used to describe aching or pain in the head. There are many types of headaches. Some of them are: ‚
- Headaches that go along with an illness or injury. These may be caused by a virus. They can also happen when you do not get enough to drink.
- Tension type headaches. These are not often bad enough to keep you from doing daily activities. You may feel tightness in the muscles around the head, neck, and shoulders.
- Migraine headaches. These often start off mild and get worse. You are often not able to do normal activities. This kind of headache may also have other signs with it like throwing up and being sensitive to light or sound.
- Cluster headaches happen again and again. The pain is burning, sharp, and steady. The pain may happen behind or around your eye. It can also include one side of your face. Signs can include a stuffed, runny nose and red, watery eyes. They can be brought on by smoking, heat, and bright lights. Certain drugs can also cause this type of headache.
- Sinus headache is often mistaken for a migraine. The pain is dull and throbbing. The pain happens behind the nose, eyes, forehead, and cheekbones. This is often due to swelling of the sinuses (sinusitis). If you have a fever and greenish yellow discharge from your nose, you may have a sinus headache
Not all headaches need a doctors attention. Some kinds may be a sign of a serious problem. Treatment for headaches will depend on what is causing them. ‚
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What are the causes?
The exact cause of many headaches is not known and may vary based on the type of headache. ‚
What are the main signs?
Signs differ based on the type of headache you have. Talk with your doctor about your signs. ‚
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. You will be asked to talk about your headaches. The doctor will want to know when they happen and how often you get them. It may be hard to find the exact cause. Your doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- CT or MRI scan
- Other tests to rule out other health problems that could be causing the headaches
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Goals are to avoid or lower the number of headaches, help ease your pain, and give you a better quality of life. The type of care that is best for you will depend on the type of headache you have. This may include: ‚
- Self-care during the headache:
- Cold compresses or ice packs
- Massaging temples and neck
- Deep breathing techniques
- Warm shower
- Sleeping
- Over the counter drugs like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Other treatments may include:
- Acupuncture
- Physical therapy
- Massage if the pain is in the neck and shoulders
What lifestyle changes are needed?
Some things can lessen the chance for you to get a headache. Make sure you: ‚
- Keep the same sleep routine and get enough sleep.
- Eat regular meals.
- Workout often. Drink lots of fluids, especially in hot weather.
- Do not drink beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol).
- Practice ways to control your stress. Learn and practice coping skills.
- Avoid foods that might cause your headaches.
- Stop smoking if you smoke.
- Keep a diary of your headaches (eg, when they happen, what causes them, what helps them).
What drugs may be needed?
Your doctor may order drugs based on the type of headache you have. The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain
- Prevent or stop the headache
- Treat upset stomach and throwing up
- Treat high blood pressure
- Treat low mood
- Treat hormonal imbalance
What problems could happen?
Headache may be related to a more serious health condition. ‚
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Know the factors that may trigger your headache.
- Go to sleep and get up at the same time every day.
- Get regular exercise and eat a balanced diet. Good health habits may help prevent headaches.
- Limit screen time. This includes watching TV, using computers, and playing video games.
- Take drugs to prevent headaches. Your doctor may give you drugs to cut down on how long the headache lasts. This can also help cut down on how long you will have an attack.
- Avoid stress. Learn how to cope with situations that create stress. Try to relax.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking. These can make headaches worse.
- Hold the phone rather than cradling it on your shoulder, or use a headset.
Where can I learn more?
American Family Physician ‚
http://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=10 ‚
National Headache Foundation ‚
http://www.headaches.org/education/Tools_for_Sufferers/Headache_-_Frequently_Asked_Questions ‚
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke ‚
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/headache/headache.htm ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/headache/Pages/Introduction.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚