The day started so well, and then—bang! A throbbing pain suddenly ruins everything. What’s the best way to deal with a headache?
Headache is a fairly common occurrence; everyone suffers from one at some time or another, although with varying levels of pain. However, this does not mean that a headache should be taken lightly. When diagnosed by a health professional, a headache can be treated and the patient’s quality of life, which has sometimes been lost due to the pain, can finally be restored.
The 3 most common types of headache
- Tension headaches. Pain is often concentrated between the eyes and can persist for a few hours or days. Tension headaches cause throbbing pain.
- Cluster headaches. These start during sleep and are located on one side of the head. The pain can be very intense. Cluster headaches are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as watery eyes or a runny nose.
- Migraines. Pain is often located on one side of the head. The intensity of the pain and its location vary among individuals, but it is generally debilitating. Other symptoms associated with migraines are nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light. Migraines usually last between 12 and 18 hours.
A doctor or pharmacist can advise you concerning the treatment or the best medication to be taken, depending on the type of headache you have.
When should I consult a doctor?
Typically, headaches disappear on their own. However, they may be indicative of some type of disorder. If headaches are frequent or unusual, or if the usual treatment does not relieve the pain, it is advisable to consult a doctor. And don’t hesitate to go to the hospital if you notice the following symptoms:
- severe headaches
- unusual or intense headaches on both sides of the head
- headaches accompanied by confusion, double vision, fever, numbness, slurred speech, or a stiff neck
- headaches after a head injury, sore throat, or respiratory infection
- headaches that persist and worsen with coughing, physical exertion, or sudden movements
- unusual pain, if you are 55 or older
What a doctor can do
Migraine sufferers, who are accustomed to severe headaches, don’t complain often enough about this problem to their doctors. However, migraines are debilitating and affect the well-being of the sufferer. Consult your family doctor so you can get help finding the most suitable treatment for your migraines.
During an examination, the doctor will first ask about your medical history, physical condition, and level of stress. These observations can help a doctor detect disorders that could be fatal, such as a stroke or meningitis. If the doctor detects the presence of more worrying symptoms, he or she may suggest an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to help find a diagnosis.
