Understanding The Different Types Of Headaches
There are few things in life that can stop a person in their tracks the way a bad headache can. The throbbing sensation can sometimes be accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sounds. There are many triggers that cause headaches and understanding them may assist in their treatment.
3 Headache Types
There are essentially three types of headaches: tension headaches, migraine headaches and cluster headaches. These headaches vary greatly from their triggers to which part of the head they cause to ache. They also have varying duration’s and intensity levels.
1. Tension Headaches
These are the most common type of headache and their most common cause is a lack of sleep. Perhaps this is why their most common side effect is fatigue. The pain caused by these headaches can be mild to moderate and a long nap may help to ease the pain. These headaches are persistent and can last from a half hour to an entire week. Tension headaches can affect both sides of the head and they may also be caused by stress.
2. Migraine Headaches
The Migraine headache is far more intense than the tension headache and it can last from 4 to 72 hours. The pain of a migraine can be intense and cause nausea as well as sensitivity to light and sound. The exact causes of migraine headaches are unknown though it is believed that hormones, stress and even certain foods may play a role in triggering them. Migraines are typically categorized by pain concentrated on one side of the head and medication may be needed to ease the pounding sensation.
3. Cluster headaches
Cluster headaches hurt the worst and they’re categorized by an intense pain behind the eyes. Cluster headaches occur in clusters, striking up to 3 times a day for up to two weeks. It’s unclear what causes cluster headaches though they may be linked to the hypothalamus gland. Symptoms of cluster headaches include red eyes, congestion and agitation.
Regardless of the type of headache a person may be suffering from, he or she will naturally want immediate relief. While ibuprofen, acetaminophen and naproxen may provide relief to some degree, the best treatment is to avoid the things that trigger the headaches. Getting a good night’s sleep may be the best preventative step anyone can take to avoid a headache.
Other Treatments
Chiropractors are often times associated with spinal injuries but they have a number of things they can do, such as relieve pinched nerves, that may help to alleviate intense headaches. Another treatment option is Neurotherapy which affects the brain waves and helps them to function in a healthy manor. This method is painless and drug free and many people bear testimony to its effectiveness.