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Headaches:-
Headaches are among the most common ailment causing Americans pain and distress.
As many as 1 out of 10 people suffer at least one episode a week. Most headaches
are caused by an inflammation or swelling of the blood vessels in the head.
This usually is triggered by an emotional factor, such as tension, stress, worry,
or anxiety. Fatigue can also cause headaches, and sometimes the presence of
an infection brings on headaches. A prolonged headache may be the sign of a
more serious medical problem, such as an abscess or a tumor.
There are several different types of headaches, including tension, sinus, and
migraines. Tension headaches are not usually confined just to the head; pressure
and pain can be felt at the temples, the base of the neck, and may even extend
to the muscles of the back. Typical causes of tension headaches are worry, anxiety,
fatigue, stress, and depression. Women seem to be more susceptible than men,
and heredity does not appear to play a role.
Sinus headaches are usually due to irritation or congestion of the sinus cavities
brought on by allergies, colds and infections. The pain tends to be concentrated
around and behind the eyes, and bending over can make it worse. Altitude changes,
such as flying, can also worsen the symptoms.
Migraines are the most severe, characterized by intense, throbbing pain which
usually affects only one side of the head, as well as the forehead and temples.
A migraine can last from several hours to several days, and can be preceded
by visual disturbances, numbness and a tingling sensation in the hands, face,
or lips. Other symptoms can include dizziness, confusion, nausea and vomiting,
and the eyes may be abnormally sensitive to light. Triggers for migraines can
be stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, alcohol, and even some odors. Heredity
seems to be a factor, and women generally get more migraines than men by a factor
of 3-1.
The most common over-the-counter remedies for headaches include aspirin (do
NOT give aspirin to children under 16 unless directed by a physician), acetaminophen,
and ibuprofen. Sinus headaches can be relieved with non-prescription antihistamines
and decongestants. Serious migraine headaches most often are relieved with prescription
drugs that can reduce the swelling of the blood vessels in the head, kill the
pain, and prevent or reduce the number of attacks.
No matter what type of headache you have, there are some things you can do to
ease the pain: try massage, warm baths and exercise programs to reduce the tension;
apply hot or cold ice packs to the head and neck; get plenty of sleep and rest;
avoid stressful situations; and read or listen to relaxing music.
It is important to consult your physician or pharmacist before using any over-the-counter
drugs or treatments. They will be able to advise you on proper usage and can
warn you of possible side effects and contraindications.
