Health
From tension and cluster headaches to migraine, here’s how to spot the cause of your pain and fix it – fast
In today’s fast and furious environment, with our reliance on screens, most of us will be battling a headache at some point during this week. Here’s how to pinpoint the source of your pain – and what to do about it.
Tension headache
This most common headache type is caused by stress, and is often described as having a band around the head. It presents as a dull, persistent pain that can feel like a clamp squeezing the skull.
✱ A pressing or tightening sensation on both sides of the head
✱ Pain that can last from minutes to days
✱ Tenderness in the scalp, neck and shoulder muscles
Stress management is key, including regular physical activity to improve posture and muscle tone, and the creation of an ergonomic work environment. Find yourself squinting at the screen? ‘Prescription glasses or lenses designed to filter blue light may alleviate the eye strain that often contributes to this type of headache,’ says health practitioner Daniella Pates from Specscart.
PERSISTENT HEADACHE
Medically known as hemicrania continua, this chronic headache type usually occurs on just one side and is typically responsive to certain types of medication.
✱ A constant, fluctuating pain, from moderate to severe intensity
✱ Tearing or redness of the eye on the affected side
✱ Nasal congestion or a runny nose
‘The primary method of combating this type of headache is the administration of indomethacin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID),’ says Daniella. Drinking enough water alongside eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can also help.
HORMONE HEADACHE
Caused by fluctuating hormones, these headaches often appear in the run-up to menopause and periods, and are typically caused by drops in oestrogen.
✱ Dull, throbbing, pulsing pain
✱ Sensitivity to light
✱ Nausea, dizziness and fatigue
Eat small, frequent snacks to keep blood sugars stable, establish a regular sleep pattern and keep stress under control. Consult your GP about migraine medication, HRT or the pill.
THUNDERCLAP HEADACHE
‘Thunderclap headaches strike with ferocity, warranting immediate medical investigation,’ says Daniella.
‘They can signal critical issues such as cerebral aneurysms or subarachnoid haemorrhages.’
✱ A headache that peaks in severity within a minute
✱ Possible loss of consciousness or other altered mental states
These headaches require immediate medical attention, so contact a medical expert. ‘Preventative measures are not applicable, as they often result from underlying acute medical conditions,’ says Daniella.
