What are the Different Types of Headache?
A major cause of absenteeism from work is the persistent headache or migraine attack. Even if the sufferer does not stay at home, their effectiveness at work may be reduced. Tension headaches, cluster headaches and migraine make concentration extremely problematic meaning a persons functionality is compromised. There are a variety of headache types, which makes categorising a headache quite challenging, and many are mis-diagnosed and consequently mis-treated. It is possible to ascertain which kind of headache you are suffering from to some extent though, by noting a few characteristics.
Tension Headaches
This type of headache is very common and feels like a tight pressure or consistent ache, giving the sensation that the temples, head and back of the neck are being squeezed. Although people report being able to carry out normal everyday tasks and routines while this type of headache is present. Stress is thought to be a contributing factor with these headaches.
Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches appear in the form of recurring headaches which come in cycles or groups, they arrive suddenly as extreme pain in one side of the head. Other symptoms associated with cluster headaches include a runny nose, nasal congestion, and a watery eye on the side where the pain is. People with cluster headaches find they are not able to get relief by lying down or resting.
Tension Headaches
This type of headache is very common and feels like a tight pressure or consistent ache, giving the sensation that the temples, head and back of the neck are being squeezed. Although people report being able to carry out normal everyday tasks and routines while this type of headache is present. Stress is thought to be a contributing factor with these headaches.
Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches appear in the form of recurring headaches which come in cycles or groups, they arrive suddenly as extreme pain in one side of the head. Other symptoms associated with cluster headaches include a runny nose, nasal congestion, and a watery eye on the side where the pain is. People with cluster headaches find they are not able to get relief by lying down or resting.
Sinus Headaches
A sinus headache can develop due to the sinuses being inflamed as a result of infection. This is confirmed by either the manifestation of fever or even pus which discovered using a special scope. This can also often affect people with hay fever.
Rebound Headaches
Overuse of over the counter or prescription pain relief medication can sometimes induce rebound headaches, often taken to get rid of a headache ironically! This is thought to be a result of painkiller withdrawal as levels in the blood drop, or a shift in the brains state in reaction to the medication.
Migraine Headaches
Migraines are very debilitating and their intense pain can last anything from four to seventy two hours. Typically they can be identified by a throbbing, sickening pain on one side of the head usually in the area of the eye. Migraines can cause numbness in the tongue and other areas, vomiting, aura or bright flashing lights, sensitivity to sound and light and inability to perform normal tasks.
Our web promotion partners Headache and Migraine Specialists, have a team which includes expert neurologists and specially trained physiotherapists. Through consultation, investigation and diagnosis, patients can look forward to alleviating many of their headache problems. Assessment of patients before and after treatment, has revealed remarkably positive outcomes.
Headache and Migraine Specialists can be contacted on 0844 264 0305
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