Headaches are common health disorders that can have various causes. Depending on the type of headache, it can cause dull, throbbing, or intense pain in the head and face, even nausea.
Tension headaches are the most common form of headache and are caused by increased muscle contractions in the scalp, neck, and shoulder area. This headache will result in a dull, tight pressure sensation lasting for a few hours or up to a week.
Cluster headaches are one-sided, excruciatingly intense, lasting up to three hours. It is an uncommon but debilitating headache that affects men more than women.
Migraines involve a combination of moderate to severe head pain, nausea, sensitivity to light, and other factors that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
Environmental factors can also contribute to headaches, such as exposure to bright lights, strong odors, lack of sleep, and stress.
Hormonal imbalances can also cause headaches; some women find that their headaches worsen around their menstrual cycle.
Some medications can also cause headaches, including those for high blood pressure, antidepressants, and birth control pills.
Exercises such as yoga and walking can help reduce the intensity of headaches.
Massage therapy is an effective treatment for headaches.
Painkillers can provide short-term relief from headaches. However, they should not be used as a sole treatment since they can be habit-forming in some people.
Eating healthy foods and abstaining from alcohol and caffeine may help reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
