Headache
A headache is localized or radiating pain in one or more regions of your head. The frequency may be occasional and of short-duration, or chronic, which may require medical attention.
Causes
Some of the common causes of a headache include:
- Migraine
- Tension or stress
- Certain medications
- Sinus cavity inflammation
- Head injury
- Specific types of exercise
- Hormonal imbalance
- Various diseases
- Certain medical procedures such as a spinal tap
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Excess caffeine
- Sleep disturbances
- Eye defects
- Unknown genetic factors
Symptoms of a Headache
The symptoms vary as do the triggers that cause your headache. Symptoms may include:
Localized or radiating pain at one or both sides of the head
- “Heaviness" of the head
- Teary and red eyes
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Nausea and vomiting
Headache Management
Some important headache management methods include one or more of the following:
Avoiding the Triggers
It is important to know what triggers the pain so you can prevent it from occurring. Maintain a record of the following factors when you get a headache for better management:
- The specific start time of the headache
- The trigger(s) experienced
- If it occurs during menses in women
- If it directly follows another symptom
Medications
Your doctor can prescribe certain medications to relieve your headache. These medications can be combined with other treatment options such as:
- Proper sleep
- Massage therapy
- Use of cold or hot compresses
Alternative Therapies
Alternative therapies can include:
- Osteopathy or Chiropractic sessions
- Stress management techniques
- Yoga
- Acupuncture
- Hypnosis
- Botox injections
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Healthy Lifestyle Changes
- Reducing the intake of caffeine
- Managing stress
- Eating healthier food
- Quitting alcohol consumption or smoking
- Exercising regularly
- Practicing relaxation techniques
- Losing weight, if obese
- Managing blood pressure or diabetes
- Getting sufficient sleep in a dark environment
- Regularly following up with your doctor
