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Nearly everyone has at one point in time experienced the fight against a headache. Almost 90% of Americans have had headaches, whether they be throbbing, sharp, dull and achy, or you fill in the blank. A common assumption is that if these headaches persist, reoccur, or are severe, that they must be migraines. There are many different types of headaches, migraines being one, however the most common type is called Tension headaches. Below is a list of different headaches, and how to differentiate.
Tension Headaches
Described as a "band-like" or "compression" pain that most commonly occurs in the forehead, or the back of the skull and neck. These headaches can be unilateral or encircle the entire head. The pain is often mild to moderate in severity, and feels like a dull, non-pulsating pain. Nausea and sensitivities to light and sound may be present, but usually not as severe as migraines. Tension headaches can be caused by misalignments in the spine, muscle tension, trigger points, trauma, stress, and postural strain.
Migraine Headaches
Migraine headaches can be unilateral (one-sided) or bilateral and are more prevalent in females. Often times, patients are able to predict the occurrence of their migraines. The pain associated with migraines are usually described as pulsating, are moderate to severe in quality, and have associated symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, photophobia, and phonophobia. Migraines are believed to be caused by stress, excessive sleep, menstruation or pregnancy, as well as red wines, chocolate, nuts, alcohol, and aged cheeses.
Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are commonly characterized as unilateral attacks with pain located behind the eye. They are the least common of the headaches, but tend to be the most severe. These headaches are generally short-lived and followed by a long painless period. The pain is described as sharp and stabbing on the one side, severe, and may cause nausea and sensitivity to light. Cluster headaches are commonly caused by stress, allergies, nitroglycerin use, or reactions to specific foods. Increased incidence in the Spring and Fall.
Sinus Headaches
These headaches are caused by congestion and pressure in the sinuses below the eyes, and in the forehead. They tend to feel very similar to migraines, and thus are often misdiagnosed as such. The pain is commonly described as dull and achy, as well as the increased pressure in the sinuses.
Although each type of headache has varying severity, causes, and symptoms, many of them can be treated within your local chiropractor's office. Whether it be chiropractic adjustments, physical therapies such as electrical muscle stimulation or ultrasound, or trigger point therapy, there are options for one to win the battle against their headaches.
