Headache Cures – How to Identify the Causes and Proper Treatments

If you are looking for information on headache cures or prevention, then take a seat and get reading because these are the topics and issues I’m going to cover with this article.

Within this article the first thing we are going to discuss is the importance of understanding the different types of headaches, and we’ll then briefly touch on strategies to deal with them. After reading this article you should have a better understanding of what kinds of headaches you’re dealing with, and also where to find the appropriate information on treatment and preventative strategies.

First, let’s talk about headache types. There are more than a dozen headaches listed in the International Headache Classifications, from thunderclap headache to migraines, all of which have very different causes and solutions. While it is beyond the scope of this article to deal with every single type of headache, I would like to touch bases on the two most common headaches, namely: migraine, tension-type (stress) headaches.

Migraines – Certainly one of the worst types of headaches to deal with, migraines can be quite incapacitating. The are characterized by being pounding in nature, on most often affecting one side of the head. Sufferers often deal with nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and an increase in symptoms with physical exertion. Some people also experience flashing lights, sounds, or other sensations prior to the headache starting, these are called ‘auras’.

Tension-type – While these types of headaches can also be on one side of the head, they usually progress to being on both sides, and are described as a sensation of tightening. These headaches are not aggravated by physical activity, and there is no nausea of vomiting.

It terms of treatment, migraine’s are not only one of the worst headaches to deal with, but often the most resistant to treatment. People are often put on either a preventative medication (taken daily) or an abortive medication (when the migraine starts). However, medication doesn’t have to be the only answer. There are many triggers that can cause migraines, and it is often best for an individual to keep a headache diary, and see if they can identify their own triggers. Some of the most common triggers include certain foods (red wine, processed meats), light, hormone fluctuations and changes in sleeping habits. There are many other triggers to consider as well, and taking the preventative approach to migraines is often best.

Tension-type headaches are cause by just that, tension! Most often a tightening of the upper back, shoulders, and neck muscles results in an irritation of many of the small nerves around the base of the skull, which then leads to a headache. Avoiding a building up of the stressors to begin with, such as prolonged desk work or eye strain, and activities including improper lifting techniques as a good start in terms of prevention. Treatment of these headaches should focus on relieving the tension through out the neck and upper back areas, and relieving the stress causing them. Often breathing exercises, and a simple routine of stretching throughout the day, or when the headache begins, can lead to quick relief from symptoms.

So, now that you understand three of the most common types of headaches you can start to seek out appropriate treatment and preventative options. Many headache cures exist, it’s just making sure you select the right ones for the headaches you’re experiencing. Also, if your headaches are unresponsive to any sort of treatment, and progressively getting worse, its in your best interest to consult a chiropractor or medical doctor so they can properly examine you, and find the root of your problems.

Doctor K has helped hundreds of people deal with their headaches, and has recently started a blog on headache cures, as well as preventative techniques to stop headaches before they start. If you regularly suffer from headaches, and are ready to find some real solutions, visit his ‘Headache Cures’ blog and watch for updates on working strategies you can start implementing today.

http://www.headache-cures.net/headache-cures/headache-cures-what-you-need-to-know-2