Headache

YourSpine Centre Info SiteConditions SymptomsHeadache

What is a Headache?

A Headache, which is also known as cephalalgia, can be described as pain which occurs in any region of the head, and/or neck. A headache can occur on 1 or both sides of your head, it can be isolated to a specific location, it can radiate across your head from 1 point, or can have a vise like quality.
 
A headache can be characterized by a very sharp pain, with a throbbing sensation, or can be a dull ache. A headache can develop slowly or can be sudden. It can last for a few minutes, or even for several days. Headaches are very common, and almost everyone will have a headache at one point in their life.
 
Most headaches tend to disappear on their own, however, if your headache is severe and chronic, you may need have a musculoskeletal imbalance which requires correction.

Common Types of Headaches

Tension headache: This is one of the most common headaches. It’s usually ambiguous since it can’t be attributed to a particular cause. It’s characterized by tight muscles on your scalp and the back of your neck. It can be episodic, or chronic.

Cluster headache: This is the type of headache which affects only one side of the head, normally near the eyes.

Migraine: This is recognized as a neurological disorder that’s often recurrent.

Sinus headache: This happens when you are diagnosed with sinusitis.

Causes of Headaches

The causes of headaches vary greatly. However, anything which stimulates the pain receptors in your head and/or neck, can cause headaches.

Some of the more common causes of headaches include, but not limited to;
 

  • Stress.
  • Eye problems.
  • Hormonal influences.
  • Infections.
  • Muscular tension.
  • Jaw or dental problems.
  • Nervous system disorder.
  • Injury to the head, spine or/and neck.
  • High blood pressure.
  • Poor posture.
  • Hangover from abusing drugs or alcohol.
  • Extreme temperatures.
  • Noise.
  • Dehydration and many others.

Signs and Symptoms of Headaches

  • Pain in any region or side of your head, scalp, neck, and/or ears.
  • Blurry vision.
  • Nausea and/or vomiting.
  • Stiff neck.
  • Fever.
  • Sensitivity to light and/or sound.

 
In the more severe cases, a headache can be accompanied by;
 

  • Difficulty walking, talking and carrying out other regular activities.
  • Seizures.
  • Extreme fatigue.
  • Lack of appetite.
  • Weight loss, among others.