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Headache
A headache is pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. Serious
causes of headaches are extremely rare. Most people with headaches can
feel much better by making lifestyle changes, learning ways to relax,
and occasionally by taking medications.
Headache types
Headache types:
- Tension headache
- Cluster headache
- Migraine
- Sinus headaches
Tension Headache
Almost 90% of headaches result from increased tension in the scalp and
neck. Tension headache pain is usually described as a vise squeezing on
both sides of the head or a tight band around the head. Individuals who
chronically have tension headaches often suffer from stress, anxiety,
or depression as well. Anyone can experience tension-type headaches. Most
commonly occur between the ages of 20 and 40 years.
Cluster Headache
Cluster headaches are sharp, extremely painful headaches. Cluster headaches
are a series of headaches that occur suddenly as an excruciating pain
lasting anywhere from 15 minutes up to 4 hours and often occur on one
side of the head. Cluster headaches involve blood vessels in the head,
therefore it is necessary to consult and follow up appropriately with
a doctor. They are more common in smokers than in nonsmokers.
Migraine Headache
Migraine headaches are often described as an intense throbbing, pounding
pain on one or both sides of the head. The exact cause of migraine headaches
is unknown. However, in individuals prone to migraines, physical causes
(or triggers) such as diet, stress, menstruation, or environment changes
can result in a migraine. There are two forms of migraine: with aura (formerly
called classic) and without aura (formerly called common).
Sinus headaches
Sinus headaches cause pain in the front of your head and face. They are
due to inflammation in the sinus passages that lie behind the cheeks,
nose, and eyes. The pain tends to be worse when you bend forward and when
you first wake up in the morning. Postnasal drip, sore throat, and nasal
discharge usually occur with these headaches.
Headache Causes
- Holding your head in one position for a long time, like at a computer,
microscope, or typewriter
- Overexerting yourself
- Poor sleep position
- Clenching or grinding your teeth
- Headaches may occur if you have a cold, the flu, fever, or premenstrual
syndrome.
Tension headaches are due to tight, contracted muscles in your shoulders,
neck, scalp, and jaw. They are often related to stress, depression, or
anxiety. Overworking, not getting enough sleep, missing meals, and using
alcohol or street drugs can make you more susceptible to them. People
who drink caffeine can have headaches when they don't get their usual
daily amount. Tension headaches tend to be on both sides of your head.
They often start at the back of your head and spread forward. The pain
may feel dull or squeezing, like a tight band or vice.
Migraine headaches are severe, recurrent headaches generally accompanied
by other symptoms like visual disturbances or nausea. They tend to begin
on one side of your head, although the pain may spread to both sides.
You may have an "aura" (warning symptoms that start before your headache)
and feel throbbing, pounding, or pulsating pain.
Headache Prevention
The following healthy habits can lessen stress and reduce your chance
of getting headaches:
- Getting adequate sleep
- Exercising regularly
- Stretching your neck and upper body, especially if your work involves
typing or using a computer
- Learning to relax using meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or other
techniques
- Learning proper posture
- Eating a healthy diet
Treatment
Treatment options for headaches range from meditation to drug therapy.
Because there are numerous treatments for headaches, it often takes patience
and the willingness to try several different treatments to find what works
best for you.
There are numerous medications that can be used to treat and prevent
headaches. The type of medication that is appropriate will depend on the
type of headache, and an individual's health conditions. Treatment for
headaches is highly individualized and it is possible that several agents
may be tried to find one that works best.
Price-RX.com offers you price comparison of the following non-controlled
headache relief
prescription drugs used to relief pain:
Miscellaneous Analgesics
- Butalbital / APAP w/caffeine (Generic Fioricet)
- Esgic Plus (Butalbital/Acetaminophen/Caffeine)
- Fioricet (Butalbital/Acetaminophen/Caffeine)
Serotonin Receptor Agonists
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