Pain in different parts of your head could indicate various issues about your health…
Whether it’s tenderness around your temples, a tightness around your whole head or a constant thumping, suffering from headaches can be debilitating. It’s estimated that more than ten million adults in the UK are affected by bad headaches.
However, not every headache is the same. In fact, the type of pain, location, intensity and duration can tell us very different things about what’s causing it –and mean very different things for our health.
Dr Mona Ghadiri-Sani, Consultant Neurologist and Headache Specialist, says: “If you’re suffering with headaches, try to keep a diary of the pain, duration and any possible triggers.
“This may include things like stress, diet, caffeine or alcohol consumption, hormone changes, dehydration, eye strain and bad posture. Not only will a headache diary help you to notice any patterns, but actually a lot of the more advanced treatments can’t be accessed without one.
“Remember, most of the time a headache won’t be serious. However, if you experience new onset headaches, especially if you’re over 55 or the headache is brought on suddenly by coughing, sneezing or exercise, always go and see your GP.
“It’s always better to get checked over than to worry.”
Here, Dr Ghadiri-Sani explores some of the headaches we experience…
TENSION HEADACHES
“It’s vital to identify the difference between a tension headache and a migraine because treatments are so different. Tension headaches usually present with a band of mild aching pain around the head, often brought on by stress or fatigue. But this headache is not debilitating, and you wouldn’t feel nausea, light or noise sensitivity. To prevent tension headaches, try to reduce stress as much as possible through exercise, good hydration and sleep. If irregular – you’re only experiencing them once or twice a week – it’s fine to treat them with simple over-the-counter medication such as paracetamol. However, make sure you don’t choose painkillers which contain opioids or caffeine as this can worsen symptoms.
“Caffeine headaches can sometimes feel the same as tension headaches. If you’re noticing headaches when your next dose of caffeine is due, try cutting down or switching to decaf drinks instead.”
MIGRAINES
“Migraine is one of the most common headaches, especially in women. Unlike tension headaches, migraine headaches are usually one-sided (the side can switch) and are associated with nausea and light and noise sensitivity. Other symptoms can include fogginess, neck pain and stiffnes
