Headache is a common condition that manifests as pain or discomfort in the head area. It can range from mild to severe and has various causes.

Different types of headaches

Headaches come in various forms, including tension headaches, migraines, cluster headaches, and exercise-induced headaches. Each type has unique characteristics and requires specific approaches for treatment and relief.

Symptoms and causes

Tension headaches, the most common type, are often characterized by a pressing pain on both sides of the head. Triggers can include stress, fatigue, and poor posture. Migraines often involve intense throbbing pain, light sensitivity, and nausea, while cluster headaches manifest as intense pain around one eye.

Headaches as a medication side effect

Some medications can have headaches as a side effect. It is important to discuss any side effects with your doctor so that appropriate adjustments can be made if necessary.

Months of regular painkiller use

Long-term use of painkillers can cause paradoxical headaches, where the medication intended for relief becomes the cause.

Headaches Due to Other Factors

• Fever: Elevated body temperature can lead to headaches.
• Tension: Tension in the neck and shoulders can cause tension headaches.
• Cold; Blocked nose: Restricted airways can result in headaches.
• Hormonal level fluctuations: Hormonal changes such as menstruation, birth control pill use, and menopause can trigger headaches.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol can cause vasodilation, contributing to headaches.
• Poor vision; Incorrect glasses/lenses: Vision-related issues can cause headaches.
• Dental or jaw issues: Dental problems can lead to headaches.

Prevention

Preventing headaches requires a holistic approach, including stress management, adequate hydration, regular exercise, and a healthy sleep pattern.

• Can I experience headaches when my body temperature rises during a fever? Headaches during a fever are often a response to the elevated body temperature. It can also be caused by dehydration, a common companion of fever. Solutions include taking fever-reducing medication, adequate fluid intake, and rest.
• What relaxation techniques can I apply to reduce my tension headaches? Various relaxation techniques are effective in relieving this type of headache. For instance, a neck and shoulder massage can specifically help relax tense muscles. Additionally, stretching exercises and applying heat to the neck and shoulder area are useful self-care measures. Maintaining good posture and regular exercise contribute to reducing muscle tension, decreasing the frequency and intensity of tension headaches. Integrating these practices into daily routines can contribute to overall well-being and prevent tension and headaches.
• How can I reduce cold-related headaches with self-care measures? Relieving a congested nose through steam inhalation, nasal irrigation, nasal sprays, and adequate fluid intake can help reduce headaches due to a cold. Rest and sleep promote recovery.
• Are there tips I can use to alleviate my hormonal headaches? For menstruation-related headaches, heat packs, hydration, and regular exercise can provide relief. In the case of hormonal fluctuations due to birth control pill use, consultation with a doctor about alternative contraception methods may be necessary. In the case of menopause, hormone therapy and lifestyle adjustments may be beneficial.
• How can I prevent getting a headache after excessive alcohol consumption? Limit alcohol consumption and ensure adequate hydration while drinking. Alternating with water and moderate drinking can reduce the risk of alcohol-related headaches.
• What can I do to protect my vision and prevent headaches? Regular eye check-ups are essential. Wearing the correct glasses or lenses can correct vision and reduce headaches due to visual problems.
• How can I self-manage my headaches with dental and jaw issues? For dental problems, consultation with a dentist is necessary. Corrective treatments, such as braces or addressing jaw issues, can relieve headaches caused by dental conditions. Regular dental check-ups help detect and treat potential issues early.

Tips to prevent headaches

• Regular exercise: Stimulates blood circulation and reduces tension.
• Adequate hydration: Maintains optimal bodily functions.
• Good sleep hygiene: Ensures sufficient rest and recovery.
• Stress management techniques: From meditation to breathing exercises.

Children with headaches: When to see a doctor?

It is crucial to seek medical help if children frequently experience severe headaches, especially if accompanied by vomiting, visual disturbances, or behavioral changes.

Adults with headaches: When to see a doctor?

• Persistent headaches after painkillers or relaxation exercises: If your headache persists despite using painkillers or relaxation exercises, it's time to seek professional advice from your doctor.
• Sudden headache: If you are over 50 and suddenly experience a headache you've never had before, it's wise to seek medical advice.
• Headache with severe accompanying symptoms: Seek immediate medical help if your headache is accompanied by severe symptoms such as a paralyzed arm, a drooping mouth, reduced vision, or unclear speech.
• Severe headache with additional complaints: In cases of severe headache combined with vomiting, fever, drowsiness, or a painful/stiff neck, it is important to seek prompt medical assistance.
• Headache after an accident or sudden intense pain in the back of the head: After an accident or sudden intense pain in the back of the head, it is necessary to consult a doctor immediately.
• Concerns about headaches: If you are concerned about the nature or frequency of your headaches, do not hesitate to talk to your doctor. A professional assessment can be reassuring and help identify possible causes.

Medications for headaches

For mild to moderate headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol can be obtained from a pharmacy or supermarket. In cases of more complex headaches where simple pain relievers are insufficient, more effective medications such as triptans may be needed. However, these are available at the pharmacy but require a prescription from a doctor.

Head massage device for headaches

A head massage device can be a non-pharmacological approach to relieving headaches. By stimulating blood circulation and relaxing muscles, the device can provide relief for tension-related headaches.

Remember that this information is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you experience persistent headache symptoms, it is always wise to consult your doctor.