What is Headache

Headache is a mild or severe pain in the head. Some times neck pain may also be interpreted as a headache. In other words we can say that pain or discomfort in the head or face area. Headache can be categorized as:-

1. Tension headache.
2. Cluster headache.
3. Migraine with aura .
4. Migraine without aura.

Causes of Headache

Common causes of Headache includes Muscle tension, Vigorous exercise, Muscle tension, Anger, Sexual excitement, Stress and muscular tension, Diet and food sensitivities, Jaw problems, Hormonal influences, Eye problems, Ear, nose and throat disorders, Sinus problems, Labyrinthitis, Infection( ear , nose , throat ), Trauma, Hay fever, Tonsillitis and Tumors .

Signs And Symptoms of Headache

Common symptoms of Headache are given below -

1) Fever
2) Diarrhea
3) Vomiting
4) Vision problems
5) Nausea
6) Constipation
7) Dizziness
8) Body pain (in a particular part of the body)
9) Soreness in the neck and shoulders
10) Dull and steady pain
11) Tension or tightening in the forehead

If the headache is due to migraines then symptoms includes pain on one side of the head only, Strange sensations called auras , Sensitivity to light or noise ,Vomiting ,Nausea, afterwards, tiredness and dull head/neck pains , Blurry vision and Throbbing. Although not all severe headaches are migraines.

Treatment of Headache

There are a number of treatment options for headache. Medications are useful in the treatment of headache. Medication includes pain killers such as a (paracetamol, Panadeine, Mersyndol, Fiorinal) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Nurofen .These products are effective and safe when taken according to the directions.

Headache can not be cured but they can be controlled. For better results there should be change in lifestyle such as personal and family counseling, relaxation therapy, should accompany any drug plan your doctor prescribes, headache triggers.

Prevention

Diagnosing and treating headache disorders is only part of the picture. Once the diagnosis is made, there are several methods in common use to prevent headache episodes. Prevention is a key element in treating head pain disorders.