While over 150 types of headaches have been diagnosed and categorized, there are some basic types that are most common. Migraine headaches, tension headaches, sinus headaches and hormone headaches are the types of headaches that most people suffer and are familiar with. Treatment differs for each headache type, but one thing all headache sufferers will agree upon; headaches are disruptive and often debilitating.
One unexpected twist turned up by researchers is that headaches, especially migraines, are hereditary in nature. 90% of children who suffer from migraines have relatives who also get migraines. If both parents have a history of migraines there is a 70% that their children will also have these awful headaches.
Headaches are triggered by a complex relationship between the brain, blood vessels and the surrounding nerves. No one yet knows what exactly turns on the signals that lead to a headache, but many causes can begin the process. Tension, allergens, noise, sleeplessness, hunger and medicines are all known triggers.
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches generally start when the sufferer is under some sort of stress. Family situations, work, or worries cause muscle tension to build in the muscles of the head and neck. That tension translates into pain and a headache is born. These usually non-progressive headaches can become chronic if the source of the tension isn't dealt with. OTC medications can help, if not taken too often, but learning techniques to cope with daily stresses is a more effective long term solution. Tension headaches often combine with migraines in a mixed headache syndrome that affects both adults and children.
Migraine Headaches
No one is sure what causes migraine headaches. The most recent thoughts on the cause of migraine is that the locus ceruleus, or 'central control' of the brain gets overloaded with signals, causing serotonin production to get off kilter. It is known, however, that migraine headaches are associated with blood vessel contraction and changes within the brain. Migraines are particularly nasty, often causing nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity and visual distortions. They often occur in cycles that can be tracked, or when triggered by specific stimuli.
One of the odder types of migraine is the ocular or ophthalmic migraine. Usually suffered by young men, this migraine arrives with no pain, but rather with a sudden loss of vision or tremendous distortion of vision in one eye. The experience is understandably frightening, especially the first time, even if it isn't painful.
Sinus headaches
Associated with deep, constant pain in the forehead, nose and cheeks, these headaches are most often caused by allergies or infection. Pain can increase with standing or lying down, and is usually accompanied by nasal discharge, earaches and a fever, if infection is the source. For allergy induced sinus headaches both over the counter medications and prescription drugs can be given to reduce the pressure within the sinuses. For infections, a run of antibiotics can help reduce symptoms.
No matter what kinds of headaches you suffer from, you should discuss them with your doctor. Working with your physician you will be able to come up with a pain management plan that makes your life much more pleasant. Headaches are an unfortunate part of our modern lives, but proper treatment can help you reduce their impact on your quality of life.
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