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Headaches and migraines are among the most common nervous system disorders, affecting nearly everyone at some point in their lives. A headache is generally defined as pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck, while a migraine is a complex neurological condition that often involves severe throbbing pain and additional symptoms like light sensitivity. Understanding the distinctions between these conditions and their causes may help you manage your symptoms more effectively. Here’s information on common causes of headaches and how to prevent and manage them:
What Causes Headaches?
Identifying the root cause of your head pain is fundamental for finding relief, as common causes range from environmental factors to internal physiological changes. The triggers for headaches and migraines are diverse, and they vary significantly from person to person. Headaches often present as a dull, steady ache or pressure around the forehead, back of the head, or neck. While uncomfortable, headaches are typically less severe than migraines.
Migraine headaches are characterized by pulsating pain, usually localized to one side of the head. They are often accompanied by other symptoms such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sensitivity To Light and Sound
- Visual Disturbances (Auras)
These symptoms commonly impact daily activities and may last for hours or even days.
Common Causes
Tension headaches, the most common type, often stem from muscle contractions in the head and neck. These contractions may be triggered by various stressors, including poor posture, prolonged screen use, and stress. Environmental factors also play a substantial role in triggering headaches or migraines. Changes in barometric pressure, strong odors, bright lights, or smoke can act as immediate triggers for some individuals.
Diet is another common culprit; specific foods like aged cheeses, processed meats containing nitrates, and alcohol are known to precipitate migraine attacks. Dehydration is perhaps the most overlooked cause. When the body lacks sufficient fluids, the brain can temporarily contract or shrink from fluid loss, pulling away from the skull and causing a dehydration headache.
Common Symptoms
Distinguishing between a standard headache and a migraine helps you select an appropriate management strategy. A typical tension headache often feels like a tight band of pressure around the forehead or back of the neck, so relieving muscle tension may reduce your head pain. Migraines are distinct in their intensity and accompanying symptoms. A migraine attack often manifests as throbbing, debilitating pain, commonly starting with visual disturbances like auras before an attack begins. Keeping a symptom diary that tracks the triggers and frequency of your pain can be a helpful tool in determining whether you’re experiencing a headache or a migraine.
What Can Prevent Headaches?
Prevention strategies focus on minimizing exposure to known triggers and maintaining physiological balance. Establishing a regular sleep schedule is key, as lack of sleep and excessive sleep may trigger episodes. Staying consistently hydrated throughout the day supports proper brain function and prevents dehydration-related pain. Regular physical activity, deep breathing exercises, and maintaining good posture during work hours can help reduce muscle tension that can lead to headaches. Dietary adjustments, such as eating regular meals to keep blood sugar stable and avoiding known food triggers, may further reduce the frequency of your attacks.
When Should You Visit a Specialist?
While most headaches can be managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter solutions, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. You should contact a neurological specialist if your headaches become more frequent or severe, or if they fail to improve with standard over-the-counter medications. Immediate medical care is necessary if you experience a sudden, severe headache that feels like a “thunderclap,” or if head pain is accompanied by:
- Fever
- Stiff Neck
- Confusion
- Seizure
- Double Vision
Headaches that occur after a head injury require prompt evaluation to rule out a concussion or other trauma.
Schedule a Consultation For Your Headaches
If head pain is interfering with your ability to work, sleep, or enjoy daily life, professional guidance can provide relief. A specialist can diagnose the specific type of headache you are experiencing and develop a tailored treatment plan. To learn what may be causing your symptoms, contact a neurologist for a consultation.
