ABSTRACT – Headache is the pain in any part of the head. It affects either one or both sides...
Headache
Headache is the pain in any part of the head. It affects either one or both sides of head or may be isolated to a particular region. It occurs as a strong pain, excruciating sensation and dull ache. It might last for several hours and can persist to few days as well.
Types-
Tension headaches
Migraines
Rebound headaches
Cluster headaches
Thunderclap headaches
CAUSES –
Primary headache includes migraine, cough, tension, cluster
Secondary headaches includes alcohol, ice creams, dehydration, overuse of medications, glaucoma, tumors, bleeding and clotting
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
Mild to severe head pain
High blood pressure
Nausea and vomiting
Intense head pain which lasts for around 1 to 2 months
DIAGNOSIS –
X rays
Blood tests
CT scan
MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)
TREATMENT –
Pain relief medications such as antidepressants on doctor’s prescription
Acupuncture
Exercise and meditation
Nutrition rich diet
Hypnosis
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
RISK FACTORS –
Stress and emotional distress
Anxiety and depression
Snoring
Obesity
Sleeping problems
PREVENTION –
Avoid excessive drinking and smoking
Maintain body weight
Maintain physical and mental health
Stress management
EPIDEMIOLOGY –
Almost half of the adults experience a headache in any given year or time worldwide.