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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