Types of Headaches: Over 50% of the Global Population is Suffering!
Headaches are a prevalent health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. They can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, and their impact on daily life can be significant. In fact, statistics suggest that over 50% of the global population is experiencing headaches. With such a wide prevalence, it becomes crucial to understand the different types of headaches and the unique characteristics they possess.
To help you understand different types of headaches – Community Pharmacy in Houston has bought you an article. So without further ado let’s get in and deal with headache symptoms effectively.
What is a Headache? Investigate the Roots of Headache!
Headache is our most common form of pain and a major reason cited for days missed at work or school as well as visits to the doctor. The severity of a headache can go from mild – let it go to severe – can’t let it go. Without proper treatment, headaches can be severe and interfere with daily activities.
Well, this was the basic information but wondering how headaches make things worse. Headaches occur when pain-sensitive nerve endings called nociceptors react to headache triggers (such as stress, certain foods or odours, or the use of medicines) and send messages through the trigeminal nerve to the thalamus, the brain’s “relay station” for pain sensation from all over the body.
Moreover, it is important to note down – headache varies from individual to individual with different symptoms as well as triggered symptoms. Hence, it is important to not overlook on the headache symptoms and reach out to your health professional before it makes the scenario more worse. To assist you in managing your headache symptoms – you can also get over-the-counter medicines from Scott Read Pharmacy- a drugstore in Houston.
Different Types of Headaches & How to Deal With It?
There are several different types of headaches, each with its own symptoms and underlying causes. Here are some of the most common types:
Stress & Tension Headache:
This is the most common type of headache and is often described as a constant, dull, or aching pain on both sides of the head or in the back of the neck. The potential triggered factors include stress, poor posture, muscle tension, improper sleep cycle and so forth.
Symptoms
- Light sensitivity
- Sound irritation
- Temple-muscle tightness
- Constant pain
Treatment
- Stay hydrated
- Improve sleeping cycle
- Take over-the-counter headache medicines – Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Acetaminophen
Migraine Headache
A migraine is a type of headache that causes a sharp pulsating pain in the side of your head. However, finding the real reason behind migraine still needs studies. Migraine episodes may last between 4 and 72 hours untreated, significantly limiting your ability to carry out your daily routine. During one, you may experience:
Symptoms
- Throbbing Pain – Usually on one side
- Numbness
- Tingling sensation
- Nausea & vomiting
- Speaking difficulty
Treatment
- OTCs like Paracetamol, Triptan and etc
- Sleep well in a dark room
- Avoid triggered factors like light and noise
- Try Deep breathing exercise
Sinus Headache
Sinus headaches are often caused by inflammation or congestion in the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities in the skull. The pain is typically felt in the forehead, cheeks, and around the eyes. Sinus headaches can last days or longer. If you are one of those dealing with worse – reach out to an ENT specialist.
Symptoms
- Thick discoloured- nasal discharge
- Cold and Cough
- Facial pain
- Fever
Treatment
- Nasal steroid sprays
- OTC decongestants like phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)
- Antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec)
Cluster Headache
The most severe form of primary headache involves sudden, extremely painful headaches that occur in “clusters,” usually at the same time of the day and night for several weeks. They strike one side of the head, often behind or around one eye, and may be preceded by a migraine-like aura and nausea. The pain usually peaks five to ten minutes after it begins and lasts up to three hours.
Symptoms
Restless and agitation
Heart rate changes
Light & sound sensitivity
Red or swollen nose
Triggered at often night
Treatment
Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation
Certain antipsychotic and triptan drugs
Oxyzen & Breathing therapy
Consult a doctor for the best treatment options.
Caffeine Headache
Caffeine withdrawal can sometimes lead to headaches. People who consume large amounts of caffeine regularly may experience headaches when they abruptly decrease or discontinue their caffeine intake. However, they can be treated with over-the-counter medicines and last a few hours.
Symptoms
Fatigue
Low-energy
Irritable nature
Nausea & vomiting
Treatment
OTC medicines
Ice-pack solution
Acupressure
Stay hydrated
Exertion Headache
Exertion headaches are caused by strenuous physical activities such as running or weightlifting. These headaches are characterized by pulsating or throbbing pain on both sides of the head and can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.
Symptoms
Blood sugar level changes
Difficulty concentration
Light sensitivity
Other headache symptoms
Treatment
Take enough rest
Stay hydrated
Get prescribed medications from a drugstore
Conclusion:
A headache’s discomfort and symptoms might interfere with daily activities such as work, school, and social interactions. Headaches can impair the ability to concentrate, focus, and overall health, making it difficult to complete everyday tasks.
If you are one of those dealing with such different types of headaches – reach out to your doctor to find the best treatment options, additionally looking for effective over-the-counter medication – Scott Read Pharmacy, a community pharmacy in Houston.