Headaches Treatment - Surgery vs Drugs
There will always be the question of which treatment option is the best – medication or surgery. One of the biggest factors involved in answering this question is whether or not there is an underlying cause of the headache pain.
There is still much that is unknown about the specific causes of migraines. Treating the headache itself with surgery is rare, but if the underlying is something like a brain tumor, surgery is often necessary. Most often, drugs such as triptans are used for migraine treatment.
Cluster headaches are a type that is very intense, and occur at the same time each day for a period of time. The causes of this condition are even more mysterious. Abnormalities in the hypothalamus are being pointed to as a possible contributor. This condition is now being successfully treated with the use of radiotherapy instead of surgery.
The most common treatment for this condition involves breathing in pure oxygen when the symptoms begin. The oxygen allows for successful treatment without the use of drugs.
Sometimes surgery is required to relieve the symptoms of ordinary tension headaches. Often, surgery can be used to correct the misalignment that is often responsible for the problem. Sinus headaches that are caused by a deviated septum can also be corrected through surgery. A deviated septum is actually a mild form of birth defect.
However, over-the-counter medication is still the most popular form of treatment for tension headaches. This is usually all that is necessary for mild and occasional headaches of this type. It may be necessary to resort to more intense treatment options for severe cases.
When headaches become a problem, it's important to seek the proper diagnosis. Among the methods for diagnosing headaches are CT (Computer Tomography) scans, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and various blood tests.
Many headache problems can be identified by viewing a 3-D image of the head and surrounding areas. Many times, this can uncover an underlying condition that may be causing the headache pain. This information can be even more specific when done in conjunction with a detailed battery of blood work and other tests. It's important to have as much information as possible when trying to seek an accurate diagnosis.
Obviously, your physician can direct you to the proper tests and procedures that you may require. It may also be necessary to consult various specialists since the problem may be physical as well as neurological.
There are certain risks involved no matter which treatment option you pursue. Obviously, all surgery has risks, but medication also carries the risk of side effects. Only with a physician's help and the proper test results can you determine which treatment option is the best for you. Keep a record of your headaches when they occur. This will help you give your physician as much information as possible.
Introduction to Headaches
Common Headache Symptoms
Causes of Headaches
Diagnosing Headaches
Who is At Risk of Suffering from Headaches?
Headaches Guide and Info
Seeking Medical Advice for Headaches
Sinus Headaches Causes and Treatments
Migraine Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Tension Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Cluster Headaches Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Pregnancy Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Headaches Treatment and Medication
Brand Name vs Generic Medication – Headache Treatments
Ibuprofen Headache Medication and Treatment
Ergots and Midrin for Migraines Treatment
Headaches Preventive Medications and Treatments
Triptans Migraines Treatment and Medication
How to Control Headaches Symptoms
Aspirin - Headache Medication and Treatment
Acetaminophen – Headache Medication and Treatment
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