My Life Monday “I have a splitting headache” Headaches are a common health problem. You must of heard people say, “ I feel like my head is going to explode.” or “I have a splitting headache.” Although headaches can be temporarily discomforting and painful, most are not related to serious illnesses. Sometimes a quiet room or a non-prescribed painkiller can ease the pain but that depends on the type of headache involved. Headaches can attack anyone at anytime. They vary in duration and intensity. The pain can be inflicted by noise, head injury, dieting, fasting, stress etc. Headaches can also be a symptom for life threatening illnesses such as a brain tumour. So what do you feel when experiencing a headache?

General types of headaches It is important to get a proper diagnosis of your headache. Frequent, persisting and throbbing headaches are something you might want to check with a physician. There are different types of headaches: Tension headaches-This type of headache is persistent. The pain is like a tight band around the head or dull pressure within the head. Cluster headaches-This type of headache occurs at regular periods. It usually affects smokers and alcoholics. It is described as piercing pain centred around one eye and usually moves vertically on the same side of the face. This is different from a migraine headache.

Migraine headaches - Usually throbbing pain, common on one side of the head and gets worse with movement or strain. Sensitivity to noise, vagueness, light-headedness and confusion occurs. This is accompanied with nausea and vomiting. Sinus headaches - The sinus is a long bony cavity in the skull and behind the cheeks. This acts as a reservoir for mucus ( a slippery secretion.) The mucus is usually drained through the nose or throat but if suffering of a cold or a flu, the drainage channels get blocked. The blockage builds up pressure resulting in a headache. Rebound headaches- Over-use of medication for headaches can worsen the situation rather than ease the pain. People usually think that if one pill can ease the pain, 2 or 3 can stop the pain immediately. Caffeine and nicotine can have the same effect. General types of headaches

Other causes of headaches Headaches can be a side effect from disorders such as: Dental problems Head injury Brain tumour Eye diseases Spinal injury Arthritis Nerve damage Fever

Watch out for symptoms You should seek medical advice if you experience any of the following: A severe and sudden headache without warning. Sudden headaches due to high blood pressure, heart diseases or kidney problems. Headaches after having a head injury or accompanied with nausea, dizziness, blurry vision and muscle weakness. Headache accompanied by fever or seizures. Headache that results in decline in mental awareness and alertness. Headaches due to cough, sneezing or body pain. Headaches of high intensity and frequency.

What treatment is required? The treatment varies depending on the type of headache. Some various treatments include: Over the counter painkillers such as aspirin and panadol. Relaxation techniques such as a massage. Stress management. Maintaining a healthy diet. Prescribed medication. Treatment for disorders that are causing the headaches. It is important to visit the physician if the headaches are severe, throbbing and persistent.