Headache

What is headache?

Headache is a condition characterized by development of pain in the head and neck region. It is a one of the most common conditions experienced and is a major accompanying symptom of various disease conditions.

What causes headache?

Headaches can be both primary and secondary in nature. Primary headache stems out from an interplay of various factors such as chemical activity taking place inside the blood vessels, nerves and brain. In addition to these, various lifestyle factors such as stress, alcohol consumption, irregular meal pattern, poor posture and certain foods can also lead to the development of primary headaches. Secondary headaches are a result of underlying disease conditions.

What are the different types of headache?

Headaches are broadly classified under 2 categories: primary and secondary.

Following are the various types of primary headache:

• Migraine
• Tension headache
• Cluster headache
• Sex headache
• Exercise headache
• Daily / chronic headache
• Cough headache

The various types of secondary headache include:

• Sinus headaches
• Spinal headaches
• External compression headaches
• Rebound headaches
• Ice cream headaches
• Thunderclap headaches

How does headache spreads?

Headache cannot spread; it is not an infectious condition.

What are the symptoms of headache?

The classical symptom of headache is development of pain in the head and neck regions. Other accompanying signs and symptoms depend on the type of headache that has set in. Some of the common symptoms include:

•  Nausea
• Photophobia
• Band or pressure – like pain in head
• Pain either on one side or both sides of the head
• Fever
• Vision may get blurry
• A headache that worsens with change in position

What is the treatment of headache?

Treatment for a headache depends on the type of condition that has set in. For example primary headaches are treated with pain relieving medications along with sufficient rest. In case of secondary headaches, steps are taken to treat the underlying condition. Severe cases of headaches may require a hospital stay to stabilize the condition.

Various alternative therapies to treat headaches are also gaining considerable importance. These therapies include acupuncture, cognitive behavior therapy, meditation, chiropractic treatment, hypnosis and the use of herbal products.

How can headache be prevented?

It is not possible to prevent all types of headaches. However, by avoiding some headache triggers such as stress, lack of sleep, improper eating pattern and dehydration can help to prevent an attack. In addition, the following steps can be adhered to prevent a headache:

• Maintain a good posture
• Staying hydrated
• Exercise regularly
• Eating a balanced meal
• Getting good sleep
• Following a proper schedule for sleep, eating habits and exercise

Diet and lifestyle changes in headache?

Individuals suffering from headaches are advised to lead an active lifestyle. Regular exercises coupled with a balanced diet are the key to keep the headaches at bay. Skipping meals is a bad idea and should never be practiced. Never go hungry; instead keep healthy snacks handy to prevent acidity from developing.

What is Ayurvedic treatment of headache?

Ayurvedic treatment for headache is based on treating the root cause that is causing the problem. The majority of the Ayurvedic treatment regimen consists of application of herbal oils on the site of pain. The various oils that are used include jasmine, coconut, khus and sandalwood.