Headache: When to worry, what to do

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Almost everyone has experienced headache discomfort, and the most of us have experienced it multiple times. A small headache is little more than an annoyance that can be alleviated with an over-the-counter pain medicine, some food or coffee, or some rest. However, if your headache is severe or uncommon, you should be concerned about a stroke, tumor, or blood clot. Fortunately, such issues are uncommon. Nonetheless, you should be aware of when a headache requires immediate attention and how to manage the vast majority of headaches that are not life-threatening.

What is the source of headaches?
Most headaches are not fully understood by doctors. They are aware that the brain tissue and the skull are never to blame because they lack pain-detecting nerves. Yet, blood vessels in the head and neck, as well as tissues surrounding the brain and some important nerves that originate in the brain, can signal pain. Head discomfort can also be caused by the scalp, sinuses, teeth, and the muscles and joints of the neck.


When to be concerned about a headache
Many forms of headaches can be treated at home, and your doctor can prescribe medicine to reduce the majority of the more severe headaches. Nonetheless, some headaches necessitate immediate medical attention. These are some symptoms that you should be concerned about headaches:

• Headaches that appear beyond the age of 50

• A significant shift in the pattern of your headaches

• A particularly intense headache

• Headache that worsens with coughing or movementHeadaches that worsen with time

• Personality or mental function changes

• Fever, stiff neck, confusion, impaired alertness or memory, or neurological symptoms such as visual

• problems, slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or seizures may accompany headaches.
  Headaches accompanied by burning red eyes
  
  
  There are around 300 different varieties of headaches, yet only about 10% of them have a known cause. The others are referred to as main headaches. Here's a list of some of the most common main headaches.
  
  Headaches caused by tension
  Tension headaches are the most frequent type of headache, affecting approximately three out of every four individuals. They are usually mild to moderate in severity and occur infrequently. Yet, some people experience severe tension headaches, and some suffer from them three or four times per week.
  
  A tension headache is characterized by a dull, squeezing pain on both sides of the head. Individuals suffering from severe tension headaches may feel as though their heads are trapped in a vice. Shoulders and neck pain are also possible. Fatigue, emotional stress, or difficulties with the muscles or joints of the neck or jaw can all cause tension headaches. Most last between 20 and two hours.
  
  If you have stress headaches sometimes, you can treat them yourself. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol, and other brands) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) like aspirin, naproxen (Aleve, and other brands), or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, and other brands) often work well, but always follow the directions on the label and never take more than you should. A heating pad or a warm shower may be beneficial, and some people benefit from a short snooze or light snack.
  
  If you experience tension headaches frequently, attempt to identify causes so you can avoid them. Don't overwork yourself or skip meals. Learn relaxation practices, such as yoga, which can help you relax both your thoughts and your neck muscles. A bite plate may be beneficial if you clench your jaw or grind your teeth at night.
  
  If you require additional assistance, your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain reliever or a muscle relaxant. Many people who suffer from recurrent tension headaches can avoid attacks by using a tricyclic antidepressant like amitriptyline (Elavil, generic). Thankfully, most people suffering with tension headaches will benefit greatly from simpler treatments.
  
  It is vital that you take this medication exactly as your doctor has prescribed.