Headaches are a pain and tend to strike at the most inconvenient times. It is important to note that not all headaches are the same and each requires their own form of treatment.
This article will provide you with information on how to identify the different types of headaches and how to treat them so that you can carry on with your life. Treatheadaches.com also provides a wealth of information on the subject.
Cluster headaches
Cluster headaches can be described as being intense and often occur in waves of short periods before disappearing and occurring later again. They can regularly be confused for being migraines, as they tend to take place on the only one side of the head. It is not uncommon for a person to experience between one to four of these types of headaches a day.
Though common, it is not known exactly what causes this type of headache. They can, however, be linked to stress, anxiety, poor diet, dehydration, lack of exercise, as well as poor sleep patterns.
Treatments can either be with the use of supplements that include Magnesium and Vitamin B or over the counter medication.
Menstrual headaches
Menstrual headaches are often experienced during periods where the female body is undergoing a shift in hormone production during the menstrual cycle. Another cause can similarly be correlated to the body containing lower levels of certain minerals such as magnesium.
It is often advised that if the cause is related to a deficiency, that one should take magnesium supplements. They should be administered a few days before as well as during the menstrual cycle, in order to either prevent or treat a headache.
Other treatments include painkillers, applying a cold pack to the pain area, as well as attempting to reduce levels of stress. If you suspect that the headaches are induced by certain foods, then it would be advisable to avoid those food triggers.
If the problem can be related to your birth control pills, it may be advised to visit your doctor and discuss possible alternative birth control options.
Tension headaches
Tension headaches, also known as stress headaches, are regularly caused by muscle strain, anxiety and of course, stress. Other causes include dehydration, poor posture, lack of sleep, eye strain or skipping meals.
Common symptoms that are frequently accompanied by these headaches include pressure behind the eyes, tenderness in the neck, shoulders, and head, as well as light and sound.
Treatment for tension headaches includes the use of painkillers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen all of which can be bought over the counter. Sometimes long-term lifestyle treatments are necessary in order to prevent headaches, such as regular exercise, getting at least eight to ten hours of sleep a night, and drinking sufficient amount of water a day.
Sinus headaches
Sinus headaches are often caused by sinusitis and are regularly the result of an infection in the facial sinuses. They can also be caused by irritation or inflammation of the nasal cavities. The type of treatment for sinus headaches will often be linked to the cause of the infection.
They can be treated by the use of nasal decongestants, as well as by painkillers.
Migraines/Hormonal
Migraines are commonly described as an intense throbbing pain, that occurs on one side of the head. They can sometimes be confused for cluster headaches.
Migraines can sometimes be accompanied by symptoms of light, smell and sound sensitivity, nausea as well as a loss of concentration. Migraines can last from a few hours and up to 3 days.
They can be triggered by bright lights, loud noises, tiredness, dehydration, missed meals, food and hormonal changes. They can also be caused by anxiety and stress.
Migraines are difficult to treat and therefore require stronger medication than the average over the counter painkiller. Treatments often include resting in a dark room that is quiet and drinking water in slow sips. Another tip is to place a cold cloth or ice pack on your head.
Exertion headaches
These types of headaches are frequently triggered by concentrated physical activity. These can often be caused by running, sudden intense movement, and weightlifting. Exertion headaches typically do not last long and generally disappear within a few minutes to several hours. Treatments and preventions include attempting to not overexert oneself, aspirin and ibuprofen.
Conclusion
It is always advisable to talk to your health practitioner should these headaches persist or if you are concerned about what is causing them. Remember to take care of yourself and try to remain hydrated, eat well and exercise regularly. Don’t over exert yourself and attempt to keep your mental and physical health in balance.