Headaches
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Understanding Headaches
Headaches are a common occurrence for many people, but when they become frequent or severe, they may indicate an underlying issue that requires specialized care. Identifying the type of headache and understanding when to seek help can make a significant difference in managing your health effectively.
- The most common type, often caused by stress or muscle tension
- Symptoms: Dull, aching pain around the forehead or back of the head and neck.Mild to moderate pain, not pulsating
- Often caused by stress, poor posture, eye strain
- Usually affects both sides of the head
- Can last from 30 minutes to several days
- Not usually associated with nausea or sensitivity to light
- Intense, throbbing pain often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light
- Can last for hours or even days, significantly impacting daily life
- Often one-sided but can shift or affect both sides
- May include aura (visual disturbances) before the headache starts
- Triggered by various factors: stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, sleep issues
- Severe, piercing pain typically felt around one eye.
- Occur in clusters, often several times a day over a period of weeks or months.
- Typically one-sided, often around or behind one eye
- May cause red or teary eye, nasal congestion, or drooping eyelid
- Short duration (15 minutes to 3 hours) but occur multiple times a day
- More common in men
- Often occur at the same time each day/night
- Caused by sinus infection or inflammation (sinusitis)
- Symptoms include deep constant pain/pressure around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks, often accompanied by nasal congestion.
- Pain worsens with sudden head movement or straining
- Often accompanied by nasal discharge, fever, facial swelling, and ear pressure
- Typically resolves when the sinus issue is treated
- Can mimic migraines but often follow a predictable pattern.
- Linked to hormonal fluctuations (e.g., menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, birth control use)
- Common in women
- Often migraine-like in symptoms
- Can be triggered by estrogen drops
- May be managed with hormonal therapy or lifestyle changes
How Often Is Too Often?
Occasional headaches are normal, but if you experience any of the following, it may be time to see a neurologist:
- Frequent Headaches: More than 15 headache days per month.
- Severe or Debilitating Pain: Pain that disrupts daily activities or requires frequent medication.
- Worsening Symptoms: Increasing severity or changes in the type of headache.
- Neurological Symptoms: Blurred vision, confusion, numbness, or difficulty speaking.
- Headaches After Injury: Persistent headaches following head trauma.
When to See a Neurologist
If you’re experiencing chronic headaches or migraines that aren’t improving with over-the-counter treatments, a neurologist can provide advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment options. Early intervention can help prevent worsening symptoms and improve your quality of life.