Seven Types of Headache Disorders

Everyone has had a headache in their lifetime. Any number of factors may have triggered it. A physical ailment or a hereditary condition may have caused it. The key is correctly diagnosing the reason(s) for the headache and treating it effectively to end it or lessen its effects on the body.

There are several types of headaches that you should know: 

1. Migraines.  More than 35 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches. *** 43% of women and 18% of men will have a migraine during their lives. Most migraine sufferers are between 35-45 years old. The difference in percentages is believed to be because of hormonal changes unique to women. Migraines are so bad that they can cause severe, crippling pain. Migraines are caused by blood vessel contractions and brain changes. They are typically triggered by weather changes, stress, or a lack of sleep. It may last only thirty minutes or several days. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue or throbbing pain, on one or both sides of the head, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or sensitivity to light, noise, or smell. The warning signs that a migraine is coming are flashing lights, halos, blind spots, or zigzag lines. Migraine sufferers may take an OTC or prescription medication. They may also see a chiropractor for weekly treatments. 
2. Tension headaches. Stress and anxiety will often trigger tension headaches. These headaches are usually felt all over the body. Symptoms may include neck, forehead, or shoulder soreness, and a dull, aching sensation. Tension headache sufferers can take OTC pain relievers or get chiropractic treatments.
3. Sinus headaches. These happen as the sinus cavity becomes inflamed from illness, allergies, or dry weather. Sufferers will feel pain in the cheekbones, forehead, or bridge of the nose. The pain gets worse with fevers, nasal discharge, facial swelling, or sudden head movements. Treatments include thinning out mucus buildup. Typically OTC decongestants and antihistamines and prescription nasal steroid sprays can be used to treat the infection and relieve the sinus headache.
4. Hormone headaches. Women may have headaches related to hormonal fluctuations. When estrogen levels are affected by a pregnancy, menopause, menstruation, and hormonal contraceptives they can cause intense headaches. Treatments include pain relievers, diet changes, exercise, chiropractic care, and  OTC pain relievers. \
5. Exertion headaches. These headaches result from exercising too hard. Running, biking, weightlifting, and sexual intercourse may trigger an exertion headache. They don’t last long. Symptoms include a throbbing feeling on both sides of the head. Treatments include melatonin and OTC analgesics.
6. Hypertension headaches. This occurs when blood pressure is above 180/110. They pulsate on both sides of the head. Symptoms include chest pain, nosebleeds, vision changes, and shortness of breath. People who experience these types of headaches need to get medical care immediately. They are treated by lowering blood pressure.  
7. Cluster headaches. This rare type of headache is characterized by burning or piercing pains behind one eye or one side of the face. Symptoms include flushing, sweating, drooping eyelids, eye tearing, and nasal congestion. Men usually suffer from these headaches which can last from 15 minutes to three hours, eight times a day for four to six weeks. Treatments include prescription drugs, oral steroids, steroid injections, and oxygen therapy.

As we have shown, headaches range in severity and treatment. If you are consistently experiencing one or more of the headaches listed above, see your physician immediately. Your body may be telling you that there are other medical issues, as well. 

If you need relief from your headache, Apple Wellness Chiropractic Center, in Winchester, Virginia, led by Dr. Michael A. Pasternack, D.C., has highly-qualified chiropractors who can provide chiropractic care that makes their patients’ lives better. The team’s extensive training, combined with a commitment to high-quality care, results in a better patient experience. Call us at (540) 545-7893 for a consultation. 

*** For more information on migraines, visit the Migraine Institute website.  

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