The 4 Most Common Headaches
Headaches are one of the most common sources of discomfort. Their origin is uncertain and the symptoms indicate the typology of this pain. To relieve them effectively, it is therefore important to recognize the type of headache that is plaguing you. In this article, you will find some ideas to help you know what is happening to you.
Often, headaches are not a sign of a serious or dangerous illness. They are sometimes caused by stress, a poor diet or a lack of exercise. Other times, they tell us that something is happening in our body.
It is important to keep in mind that not all headaches are the same and do not have the same causes. For this, it is necessary to listen to your body and learn to identify its signals.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), headaches are the most common health disorders in the world. The WHO assures us that when they occur frequently, they can be a symptom of a chronic headache. Furthermore, it confirms that the majority of cases can be adequately treated by a general practitioner. A specialist is therefore not necessary.
The 4 most common headaches
To relieve your pain, it is important to determine the type of headache you have. Here are the main types and the main associated causes:
1. Migraines
Migraine is a neurological disease whose main symptom is throbbing pain (such as throbbing). It is sometimes accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or hypersensitivity to light and noise. In addition, the intensity of migraines can vary. They often appear on one side of the head, although both sides can be affected at the same time.
With an average of 12 to 18 hours, seizures can persist for several hours or days. They can be so intense that the sufferer is forced to give up their daily activities.
Even though the main cause of migraines is unknown, some associated factors have been discovered. They can be due to hormonal changes, certain foods like chocolate or aged cheeses, drinks like red wine, strong smells, lack of sleep or even stress.
2. Tension headache
This is the most common type of headache. It is characterized by a dull, oppressive and constant pain that begins in the area of the forehead and neck. Usually, this headache puts pressure on both sides of the head.
The main cause of tension headache is unknown but it can be associated with fatigue and stress. There are different ways to reduce pain, such as applying cold or hot compresses. The practice of relaxation techniques is also effective. The pain is usually mild or moderate. It usually improves when the source of tension calms down. However, it can last for several hours or days if this does not happen.
3. Sinus headache
This discomfort presents itself as pain in the head and in the face. It is associated with inflammation of the nasal sinuses that can accompany sinusitis.
Since it is an infectious process, this headache is normally accompanied by fever. The discomfort intensifies when you suddenly move your head or when you make an effort. This pain usually occurs after an infection of the upper respiratory tract. This happens for example with a cold.
To prevent headache from sinusitis, we advise you to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
4. Cluster headache
The most severe headache is cluster headache. This is an infrequent type of pain that usually affects men more than women. It is usually accompanied by swelling, reddening of the eyelids, tearing and nasal congestion.
Pain is characterized by unilateral episodes in or around the eye. These episodes repeat themselves several times a day. The cause of this headache is unknown. However, certain lifestyles such as smoking can be the root cause of the crisis. Moreover, the cause can be hereditary.
To conclude, headaches can be caused by a wide variety of factors. Be aware that a recurring headache can be the first symptom of some important illnesses. Therefore, a medical examination is essential if the pain does not stop quickly with the usual pain relievers.