Headache does not need to be a simple thing as we always consider it. It can be complicated and a sign for various conditions. Even headaches can have different causes, different symptoms and require different treatments. To find the most appropriate headache treatment, your doctor needs to find the type you have. There can be a number of causes behind onset of headache. The symptoms can change at any time and once you notice the new symptoms, speak to your doctor right away.
Different types of headaches
Migraine
This is the most common type of headache that causes pounding, throbbing pain. Migraine last from few hours to several days and can happen even once a week. People with migraine often suffer with other symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting; sensitivity to light, noise, or smells; loss of appetite; and upset stomach etc. Childhood migraine can make the child feel dizzy, have blurry vision, fever, and /or upset stomach, vomiting etc.
Tension
This is the second most common type of headache that are often referred to as “hatband” headaches. This type of headache causes pain around the back of head, the temples and forehead. The pain can last from hours to days and can co-exist with other type of headaches such as migraine. Tension headache is often treated with physical therapy, relaxation therapy, anti-inflammatories, anti-depressants.
Cluster
This type of headaches causes intense burning or piercing pain which can be throbbing or constant. The pain can be often so severe that the person can’t even sit still during the attack. Alongside the headache, it also causes drooping eyelids, redness in eyes, smaller pupil or uncontrolled tears. Cluster headaches happen in series. For example, one might get cluster headache one to three times per day and the onset may last from weeks to months. Cluster headaches often disappear completely for months or years which is called ‘remission’ period, but then come back later. Men are more likely to get them than women.
Sinus
Sinus headache causes deep and constant pain in the bridge of nose, cheekbones or forehead. Such type of headaches occurs due to cavities in head, called sinuses. They often come with other sinus symptoms such runny nose, fever, or a swollen face. Sinus headache are results of sinus infection that causes yellow or green discharge from the nose.
Rebound
This is a less common type of headache usually occur due to medication overuse. Taking over-the-counter pain killers for a prolonged period to relive this type of headache can give temporary relief but later can cause more pain. Such headaches are usually worse in the morning and requires appropriate headache treatment.
Diagnosis of headache
Diagnosis is the first step of headache treatment, and it starts with consultation with doctor. They will analyse the symptoms, frequency and other things such as triggers to diagnose the correct headache type. For most of the headache, you don’t need special diagnostic tests to be done. But depending on the symptoms and frequency, your doctor may suggest CT scan or MRI. These tests help to find the problems inside your brain that might be causing headaches.
Looking for a good neurologists to help you with headache treatment? At NHS Neurocare, we offer world class diagnosis facility for all type of headaches. Led by expert Sandeep Goel, we offer exclusive treatment for headaches and other neurology conditions. Get in touch to know more about our specialists and services we offer. Childhood migraine can make the child feel dizzy, have blurry vision, fever, and /or upset stomach, vomiting etc.