Headaches - The Frustrating Health Problem
Headaches have been a source of frustration since people started having them. There are actually many different kinds of headaches that affect different areas of the head. This makes it very difficult to pinpoint what causes the pain that they produce.
Approximately 28 million Americans are affected by migraines. Women are more vulnerable to this condition by a ratio of three to one. Even though this has been a fairly common condition for a long time, researchers have been unable to determine exactly what causes them. One theory claims that migraines occur when a neurotransmitter called serotonin interacts with nerve cells.
Another type of headache, which is even more severe than migraines, is called a cluster headache. Fortunately, only about one third of one percent of the population experiences these. This condition is characterized by a sharp stabbing pain behind the eyes and temples. The cause of this condition is unknown as well. This type of headache will occur every day for a period of time and last about an hour. Then there will be long periods in which they do not occur. Some say the cause is a defective hypothalamus.
The most common type of headache that most people experience is a tension headache. Even with these, it's hard to nail down a definite cause. It is thought that things such as stress, diet, posture and various medical conditions are responsible, but no one is sure what actually causes the pain.
Even though the causes remain a mystery, there are several effective treatments for various types of headaches. There is no known cure for headaches, but the symptoms can be safely managed in most cases.
Triptans have replaced ergots as the most common treatment for migraines. These have evolved into a safe and effective treatment for this condition. They have proven successful in dramatically reducing pain and discomfort associated with migraine headaches.
There are also preventative treatments as well. Beta blockers, Calcium Channel blockers, anti-depressants and anti-seizure medications have all proven effective. Sometimes headaches can be prevented with the use of these medications. In some they may not eliminate them, but they can reduce the frequency at which they occur.
Everyone is familiar with the many over-the counter medications, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen. Some of these have been effectively treating headache symptoms for over 100 years. Aspirin has also proven successful in treating various other medical conditions.
No medication is without risk, whether it's over-the counter or prescription. Some experience gastrointestinal bleeding and upset stomachs, just to name a few. Obviously, different people will experience different side effects. Although it is fairly rare, some people experience vomiting or bloody stool from taking these medications.
No matter what type of headache you are experiencing, it's always a good idea to consult a doctor to discuss treatment options. Unfortunately, most headache sufferers do not do this. This is a good idea if your headaches are more than just an occasional tension headache. This could indicate the presence of a more serious medical condition. A headache associated with another illness is called a secondary headache.
Pregnant women make up one risk group for increased headaches. This could also be affected by the changes in diet and medication intake during this time. If you are pregnant and begin experiencing increased or more intense headaches, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Researchers continue to try to isolate the causes of various types of headaches. This will lead to more effective treatment options as they narrow it down. The occurrence of headaches can be controlled, to an extent, by the lifestyle choices we make. Exercising and eating right, along with controlling stress can reduce the effects of different types of headaches. Headaches are also associated with mild depression.
As you can see, there are things you can do to treat this condition, even if the causes are still a matter of debate.
Introduction to Headaches
Causes of Headaches
Diagnosing Headaches
Who is At Risk of Suffering from Headaches?
Common Headache Symptoms
Headaches Guide and Info
Tension Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Sinus Headaches Causes and Treatments
Pregnancy Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Seeking Medical Advice for Headaches
Migraine Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Cluster Headaches Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Headaches Treatment and Medication
Acetaminophen – Headache Medication and Treatment
Ergots and Midrin for Migraines Treatment
Aspirin - Headache Medication and Treatment
Headaches Treatment - Surgery vs Drugs
Ibuprofen Headache Medication and Treatment
How to Control Headaches Symptoms
Brand Name vs Generic Medication – Headache Treatments
Headaches Preventive Medications and Treatments
Triptans Migraines Treatment and Medication
|
