Why Does a Headache Happen?
Headaches are classified as a neurological condition that many of us have likely experienced. But did you know that according to the National Library of Medicine, more than 50% of people worldwide have some form of headache disorder?
We are here with AdventHealth board-certified neurologist Dr. Amy Mellor, who is going to help us understand the different types of headaches, their causes, and when it might be time to see a doctor.
Types of Headaches and Their Causes
Cervicogenic Headaches
Structural problems in the head, neck and spine cause these headaches. They can be caused by arthritis, infections, whiplash, fractures or malformations at birth. It’s typical for those with these types of headaches to begin with pain in the neck and back of the head that later spreads to the front of the head. If they worsen over time, it could damage your central nervous system. It’s important that you seek help right away if you suspect you’re experiencing this type of pain.
Head Injuries
It’s common for those who’ve experienced a concussion or other head injuries to develop new or worsening headaches after the incident. This could be from sports injuries, falls, motor vehicle accidents and many others. Talk to your doctor to make sure any underlying conditions or undiagnosed injuries are not the cause of your persistent pain.
Migraines
A migraine is a severe headache that can last for several hours, days or weeks, often leaving you struggling to function. They can cause throbbing pain on either side of your head, nausea, vomiting, pain behind your eyes and sensitivity to light. While it’s unknown what causes them, there are several triggers, including stress, hormonal changes, certain medications, changes in sleep patterns and overexertion, among others.
Dr. Mellor shares, “There are alternative treatment methods for migraines including knowing what your triggers are and avoiding them. We can also implement a vitamin and mineral regimen, acupuncture and even Botox®.”
Rebound Headaches
“If you often take over-the-counter medications to treat your headaches, you can develop medication overuse headaches or rebound headaches. This means your body gets used to the medication that’s preventing pain, so when it wears off, your headache returns. This condition is very treatable and preventable with guidance from your neurologist,” says Dr. Mellor.
Stroke
According to the National Library of Medicine, 29% of those with a cortical stroke (a type of stroke that affects the cerebral cortex) experience severe headaches. Stroke-associated headaches are often described as the worst headaches ever experienced and frequently show up before the stroke happens. Although this isn’t pleasant, it shows early warning signs of stroke so you can get lifesaving emergency care fast. It’s also common for post-stroke headaches to occur in the eyes or close to where the stroke occurred.
How to Treat and Prevent Headaches
There are a variety of methods to treat headaches, including:
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Drinking enough water
• Getting enough sleep
• Lifestyle changes
• Limiting caffeine
• Over-the-counter or prescribed medication
• Quitting smoking
• Reducing stress
• Regularly exercising
Talk to your doctor to identify the cause of your pain and create a treatment plan tailored to your health history.
When You Should Seek Help
Dr. Mellor emphasizes, “If you’ve tried to reduce your headaches, but they aren’t going away, you should see your doctor. With more severe headaches, conventional treatment methods may not relieve your pain.”
Other signs that it’s time to see your doctor about your pain include:
• Experiencing the same type of headache multiple times in one month
• Headache associated with a fever and stiff neck
• Headache that never goes away
• Severe headache brought on abruptly
For unexplained headaches, your doctor may recommend an imaging test to rule out tumors and other brain abnormalities.
We’re Here to Ease Your Mind
We’re always here to support you with personalized treatment plans that help you get back to the life you love, pain-free. If you would like to learn more or schedule an appointment with Dr. Mellor, visit AdventHealthPortCharlotte.com or call 941-833-1515.