Headache
What are the causes of headaches?
Headaches occur due to irritation and pain in sensitive structures like nerves arising from the brain, the blood vessels and muscles in the head and neck region. Dilatation of the blood vessels of the brain is also a cause of migraines and certain other types of headaches.
What are the various types of headaches?
Following are some common types of headaches.
- Migraine with aura
- Migraine without aura
- Tension headaches
- Cluster headaches
- Rebound headaches
- Sinus headache
- Headache due to head injuries
How are headaches assessed?
Headaches are assessed by.
- Gathering a detailed history about the patient.
- Maintaining records of headaches, an account of sleep, diet, emotional episodes and other contributing factors, leading to headaches.
- A neurological examination is done involving assessment of the cranial nerves, reflexes and brain function. Other tests include CT scan or MRI.
- Blood tests including a complete blood count and chemistry profile.
How can headaches be prevented?
Simple relaxation techniques are helpful. Addictive medications should be avoided. Analgesics taken too often can actually induce headaches and should therefore, be avoided.
What are migraine headaches?
Migraines are disabling headaches and arise from problems related with the nerves and blood vessels in the head. Migraine headaches last for 4-72 hours. They may occur as often as several times a week to only once a year. People who have migraines are called migraineurs.
Should a person with migraine headaches consult with a doctor?
A person with any type of intense headache should definitely consult with a doctor. If the doctor makes a diagnosis of migraine headache, various treatments are available, which can improve this condition?
What is the role of caffeine?
A number of over-the-counter medications for acute migraine contain caffeine. Caffeine can play a positive role in some individuals. Overuse of caffeine may aggravate headaches. Intake of caffeine should hence be limited.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: September 05,2009