Headache and Migraines
Types of headache:
Tension headaches - a mild to moderate headache . The pain is felt in both sides of the head and neck as a pressure or tension.
Migraine - symptoms can be variable.It is usually a moderate to severe one-sided headache that pulsates or throbs. It gets worse with activity and there are additional symptoms, particularly nausea and vomiting, and an increased sensitivity to noise, light or smells.
Chronic daily headaches - these may be of any of the above types, and occur for at least 15 days a month for at least three months.
Headaches are generally divided into either primary (not related to another disorder) or secondary (caused by other things such as head injuries, high blood pressure or a brain tumour). With secondary headaches, it's essential to treat the underlying cause as not doing this may prove fatal.
Migraine
The average attack lasts between four and 72 hours and people have an average of 13 attacks a year. Women are particularly vulnerable (two out of three sufferers are female) and hormonal influences such as periods or the contraceptive pill appear to be important. The triggers for a migraine attack are individual .
What's a migraine aura?
The neurological problems that occur during an aura include:
* Flashing lights
* Strange light patterns
* Mental confusion
* Speech problems
* Numbness or tingling, often down one side of the body
Painkillers
Simple painkillers can be very effective for most types of headache if used properly. More powerful and specific medicines such as 5HT drugs are available for migraine management.
