Free Article: Type Of Headache

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What Type Of Headache Do You Have?
By M. A. Fulmar

Headaches are defined as pain associated with the head or neck, which can be caused by a multitude of pathologies. While each type of headache has its own unique symptoms, many of them may overlap, making distinction hard. Often times, the type of headache cannot be determined when the symptoms first appear, and it takes a period of trial and error, watching symptoms over a period of time, and making patterns to make the proper diagnosis. This time period can be frustrating for the person with the headache, as they having nothing else in mind but getting rid of the headache, but it is best to be patient so that you can receive the right treatment. Reading this article will allow you to recognize some of the signs and symptoms of the types of headaches that you may have, so that you can take it to your physician and devise a plan of action.

Migraines

Migraines are arguably the worst type of headache as they appear to be the most painful. They can last anywhere from a few hours to an entire day, and often make the person unable to move or speak. Migraines are notorious for their association with nausea and vomiting, which can make the headache worse as it increases the inter-cranial pressure. Many people also experience photophobia, meaning that they are unable to look at light because the pain is too intense. This often results in solitary confinement where those with migraine headaches keep themselves contained in a dark area, away from light, noise and movement.

Tension Headaches

This type of headache is characterized by a band-like tightness or squeezing across the head, and can range from only slightly bothersome to very extreme. Often times, tension headaches result from stress in the lifestyle, physically, mentally and emotionally. This type of headache typically lasts from 30 minutes to 7 days, and the duration depends on the treatment. Because tension headaches can be somewhat frequent, medication is not suggested, as prolonged use of pharmaceuticals can cause damage to the stomach and liver. Natural healing methods such as chiropractic modalities, massage, physical therapy and acupuncture have been proven to be just as successful as painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications.

Cluster Headaches

Males, aged 20 to 50 may be at risk for cluster headaches, based upon their genetic makeup. This type of headache is characterized by short bursts of extreme pain in any part of the head, and is often described as “lightening” or “thunder” because of the intensity and sudden onset. These clusters can last from a few minutes to several hours. This appears to be the most debilitating type of headache, as the person often feels as though they are having a nail drilled into their head and hence they have difficulty functioning properly. Cluster headaches can go away by themselves; however relief is faster with treatment such as muscular manipulation or ibuprofen to stop any swelling of blood vessels. Each type of headache is different, and hence each should be treated differently. If you are experiencing headaches frequently or if they are extremely intense, you should consult your physician so that you can be treated appropriately.

Author Details:
M. A. Fulmar writes about health matters for various websites including, The A to Z of and Information Junkie.

Source: Health Articles

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