Every person gets the occasional headache. The throbbing forehead and aching eyes could be the sign of a migraine, but it also might be another type of headache. How can a person know what they are dealing with? How should different types of headaches be treated?
Migraines
Many people say they need Oklahoma pain management because they have frequent migraines. However, other types of headaches may be mistaken for migraines. A true migraine comes with symptoms such as pain on only one side of the head and nausea. Sensitivity to external stimulation is often present, and many people find their vision blurs when they have a migraine. People often say they know this type of headache is coming on because it is preceded by an aura or light haze.
Several things might trigger a migraine. Women often find they have migraines more when their hormones are fluctuating. Specific foods may set off a migraine, or this headache may be caused by hunger or dehydration. Stress and changes in the weather can also lead to an episode.
The occasional migraine can be treated with over-the-counter medicine. Ongoing migraines, however, require medical intervention. See a doctor to develop a treatment plan that addresses these headaches. Fortunately, migraines aren’t overly common.
Tension Headaches
Countless men and women struggle with tension headaches. These headaches are brought on by stress in the person’s life, and sufferers say they feel like someone has put a band around their head and is tightening it. Other individuals say their tension headaches develop as pressure on each side of their head. While the pain is bad, it doesn’t rise to the level of a migraine.
When the source of stress is eliminated, the pain usually disappears. OTC pain medications can help along with lifestyle adjustments. However, if the headaches get worse or come up more often, see a doctor. They can make sure nothing else is going on.
Sinus Headaches
If a headache is accompanied by a stuffy or runny nose, chances are it is a sinus headache. However, it might still be a migraine. The only way to tell the difference between the two is to examine the color of the mucus coming from the nose. Clear and runny mucus suggests it is a migraine, while thick and yellow mucus often results from a sinus infection. Visit the doctor to learn the cause of the headache and get medicine if it is a sinus infection.
Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are very painful. They affect one side of the head, much like migraines, but they come with a piercing pain. The person might also have watery eyes or a stuffy nose. Fortunately, these headaches typically only last a few hours. Talk with the doctor to see if medications can help treat the symptoms, particularly if these headaches happen frequently.
If you suddenly start developing headaches routinely, it is time to see a doctor. The same holds if your headaches suddenly worsen in severity. Never let headaches disrupt your normal life, as help is available.
If a headache comes on suddenly and you notice a loss of vision or become unconscious, head to the nearest emergency. Do the same if you are vomiting repeatedly or the pain has continued for 72 hours or more with little relief. Something else is probably going on.
Most headaches are nothing more than a nuisance. However, certain headaches are cause for concern. Work with your doctor to learn what is causing the headaches. With their help, these headaches will hopefully be a thing of the past.
