Four of the most common headache types - symptoms, causes and what you can do about them.
Headaches affect millions of people around the world every day. But there's nothing that can be done, right? They're just a fact of life that no one can explain...
Well, perhaps not. Have you ever stopped to consider the different types of headaches and their causes - and what can be done to prevent them in the first place? Here's a summary of the four main types, to help you decipher your symptoms and offer some practical next steps.
Tension-type headaches are very common primary headaches - meaning they are not caused by any other condition. They are thought to affect more than 60% of the population, with an increased prevalence in women.
Migraine attacks are considered a primary headache and are often accompanied by visual disturbances. They affect approximately 20% of the population, with the first appearance often in childhood, adolescence or early adulthood. The greatest number of sufferers are aged between 35 and 45, and women with a family history of migraine are at higher risk.
Approximately one third of people experience visual and sensory disturbances - known as aura - for 5 to 60 minutes before the migraine. These can include seeing flickering lights, spots, stars or zig-zagging lines, partial loss of vision, tingling or muscle weakness on one side, or difficulty speaking. These symptoms can also mimic those of a stroke - if you experience them for the first time, please consult a doctor immediately.
The exact cause is unclear, but genetics and environment play a role. Triggers may include dehydration, skipped meals, sleep disruption, hormone fluctuations, stress and anxiety, certain foods or medications, and bright lights or loud noises.
Cluster headaches are considered one of the most painful and disabling disorders known to humans. They affect around 0.1% of the population and are more prevalent in men.
The cause is unclear but attacks are thought to be exacerbated by cigarette smoke, alcohol and strong smells. Treatment includes medication, lifestyle changes such as a regular sleep schedule and alcohol avoidance, nerve block injections and nerve stimulation devices.
Sinuses are air-filled spaces inside the forehead, cheekbones and behind the bridge of the nose. When they become inflamed - usually due to an allergic reaction or infection - they swell, create more mucus, and the pathways that drain them become blocked. The build-up of pressure can feel like a headache.
Aimed at decreasing inflammation to allow the sinuses to drain and reduce pressure. Options include increased fluid intake, air humidification, warm compress to the face, and medication such as antihistamines or decongestants. Antibiotics are not always necessary.
While the majority of headaches are primary headaches, a new onset of headache should always be assessed by a medical professional. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience a sudden severe new headache, headaches beginning after age 50, headaches increasing in frequency and severity, headaches following head trauma, or headaches accompanied by fever, chills, rash, dilated pupils, difficulty speaking, muscle weakness or numbness.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health.
Headaches that keep coming back? There's usually a cause - let's find it.
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