Migraines vs. Headaches: What’s the difference?

Posted August 10, 2020 by Susana M Bowling, MD

We’ve all been there at one time or another: Throbbing pain between the temples and pressure behind the eyes so great that we have to take a time out and lie down. It’s the all-too-familiar headache, right? Not so fast. 

When there is pain and pressure in your head, it can be difficult to tell whether it’s a headache or a migraine.

When people think of a migraine, they typically think of the most severe headache. But headaches are only one symptom of a migraine and they can range in severity and length. Migraines are a chronic condition and typically the cause is unknown. 

On the other hand, a headache is not usually a symptom of an underlying condition. Instead, headaches may be due to overactivity of blood vessels, muscles, nerves or brain chemicals. Factors that can lead to headaches include stress, anxiety or depression, a physical injury or even changes in the weather.

So before you write off your pain as just another headache, make sure you understand the difference between headaches and migraines. Knowing their key differences could mean faster relief with a more targeted treatment and even prevention of future pain, in some cases. 

Headache vs. Migraine Symptoms

Headaches typically cause pain in your head that can be described as pressure or aching. The pain can range from mild to severe and last anywhere from 30 minutes to a week. Pain from headaches can occur in the forehead, temples and the back of the neck.  

There are many different kinds of headaches, but the three most common include:

• Tension headaches: Typically, people feel the pain spread across both sides of their head, often starting in the back and creeping forward. It’s the most common form of headache and can be due to eyestrain, stress and hunger.
• Sinus headaches: People often experience these headaches when they’re sick or congested. These headaches are caused by swelling in the sinuses and cause pain behind the cheeks, nose and eyes. It can be at its worst in the morning or after bending over.
• Medication overuse/Rebound headaches: People often experience this type of headache from regular, long-term use of pain medication to treat headaches. Rebound headaches tend to occur daily and may improve with pain relief medication, but will return once it wears off due to withdrawal. Once a person stops taking pain medication, the rebound headache should go away.

When compared to headaches, migraines are severe and often have other symptoms that go along with the head pain. Migraines usually only affect one side of the head, and the pain and throbbing can be so severe that it can make performing everyday tasks very difficult. If you suffer from migraines, you may experience some or all of the following symptoms:

• Nausea
• Increased sensitivity to light, sound or smells
• Temporary vision loss
• Seeing spots or flashing lights
• Dizziness
• Pain behind one ear or eye, or in the temples
• Extreme fatigue

The onset of migraine symptoms can actually start several hours or even days before the migraine begins. You may experience mood swings, food cravings and stiffness in the neck. 

Right before or during a migraine, you might have sensory issues, including blurred vision, blind spots, numbness and slurred speech. Migraine pain can be mild or severe. Physical activity and exposure to light, sound and smells can worsen the pain.  

If you suffer from migraines, you may find that certain triggers cause their onset, such as:

• Hormonal changes: Menstrual cycles and hormonal changes in women can cause migraines. In fact, women are three times more likely to suffer from migraines than men, according to Penn Medicine. 
• Allergies: Because allergies can cause irritation and inflammation and migraines are associated with inflammation of blood vessels, allergies are a trigger for migraines.
• Genetics: People with a family history of migraines are more likely to develop them. 
• Environmental: There is a wide range of triggers in a person’s environment that can cause migraines, including stress, food, weather and lack of sleep.

Treatment and Relief

There is no specific cure for headaches and migraines, but usually, medication and lifestyle changes can bring much-needed relief and, in some cases, prevent future pain.

Over-the-counter drugs, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil) and aspirin (Bayer) can bring relief for occasional headaches and mild migraines. 

However, if you experience moderate to severe migraines on a regular basis, you may want to speak to your doctor about prescription medicines. They may be able to reduce the severity of your migraines and prevent future ones from occurring.

In addition, making lifestyle changes could help prevent some types of headaches and migraines, including:

• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding trigger foods
• Improving sleep habits
• Developing relaxation habits, such as meditation, yoga and stretching, and heat or massage therapy

But whatever is causing you a pain in the neck, it’s a good idea to keep a headache and migraine journal. It can help you track patterns and identify triggers. Jot down the day and time of onset, your symptoms and any activity before the headache began. 

Journaling this information can help you and your doctor create a plan to avoid triggers and reduce the frequency of your headaches to bring you the long-awaited relief you’ve been waiting for.

10 Headache Home Remedies for Fast Relief

A headache is the sensation of pain, tightness, heaviness, or discomfort in the skull, temples, forehead, and face down to the neck. The extent and intensity of the pain can vary from person to person.

Although headaches are fairly common and affect people of all ages and genders, some people get them more often than others. Generally, there is no single cause behind a headache but multiple factors that act on the pain receptors in your head or neck region.

Home Remedies for Headaches

The following home remedies may help relieve different types of headaches when used, along with standard medications. These interventions cannot eliminate the need for pain meds but make you less dependent on them.

1. Apply an ice pack to your neck

Headaches are often triggered by an underlying inflammation, which can be brought down by applying an ice pack. The cold temperature will temporarily numb the nerve endings in the area of application and make you feel less pain.

A study reported the effective use of a frozen neck wrap for alleviating migraine headaches. (1) But for this therapy to work without causing any undue side effects, you must do it correctly.

How to use:

• Wrap ice cubes in a washcloth and apply it to the back of the neck.
• Alternatively, dip a washcloth in ice-cold water and place it on your head for 5 minutes.
• You can also use a packet of frozen vegetables instead of an ice pack.

An ice pack is a home remedy that can be used alongside the prescribed medications and treatment, rather than as a substitute.

Summary:

A cold compress can help curb inflammation, which is usually the source of headaches, and relieve the pain, and desensitize the treated area.

2. Consume ginger

Ginger has been used to treat migraine headaches as it has prophylactic and abortive properties.

A clinical trial demonstrated the effective use of ginger for migraine treatment. Therefore, the use of ginger as an adjunct to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for migraine treatment can be considered. (2)

How to use:

• Mix 2–3 drops of ginger oil in a carrier oil and gently rub it over your forehead, and nape of the neck two times a day for migraine relief.
• You can also drink 1 or 2 cups of ginger tea a day to ease your headache. Simply boil 1 cup of chopped/grated ginger in 2 to 4 cups of water in a saucepan, filter the tea in a cup, sweeten it with some sugar or honey, and then drink it while hot.

Summary:

Ginger is an anti-inflammatory agent that acts on the blood vessels in the head, thus helping alleviate a headache.

3. Use essential oils

The use of lavender, rosemary, rose, and basil essential oils help in alleviating headaches. The scent of lavender essential oils can help to alleviate tension headaches. The use of lavender oil has been found to be safe and effective against migraine headaches.

In one study, patients registered a reduction in pain and symptoms associated with migraines 15 minutes after inhalation of lavender oil. The oil was rubbed onto their upper lips in the initial phases of the attack. (3)(4)

The menthol in peppermint helps to relieve headaches that are caused by the constriction of blood vessels, such as tension or stress headaches. Menthol dilates the blood vessels and also has pain-relieving properties.

A study showed that a 10% peppermint oil solution prepared using ethanol can be used for the treatment of tension headaches in individuals older than 6 years. (5)

How to use:

Mix a few drops of essential oil in a carrier oil and use it to massage your head, neck, or shoulder muscles.

Note: Oral consumption of essential oils should be avoided. Before using essential oils, check for possible allergies. People suffering from high blood pressure and epilepsy should avoid the use of rosemary oils.

Summary:

Most essential oils have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help in relieving headaches when applied topically.

4. Increase your magnesium intake

It is necessary to include magnesium in your diet if you suffer from frequent migraine headaches. One study reported a link between low levels of magnesium and chronic diseases such as migraine. (6)

Research has shown that the use of magnesium is an effective and safe preventive measure against migraines. It may also be helpful in relieving primary headaches. (7) Another study showed that around 50% of patients with migraine had a magnesium deficiency. (7)

Magnesium, available in oral and intravenous forms, is highly useful for magnesium-deficient patients. Thus, preliminary treatment with oral magnesium is recommended for people suffering from migraines.

How to use:

• Eat magnesium-rich foods.
• Consult your doctor about the appropriate dosage before staring magnesium supplements.

Summary:

Magnesium is known to reduce pain perception during a migraine attack by obstructing the activity of certain neurotransmitters.

5. Increase your water intake

Headaches can commonly result from dehydration. (8) Dehydration occurs due to less fluid intake or excessive fluid loss, resulting in decreased body water content. Constant thirst, dryness in the mouth, and lethargy are symptomatic of dehydration. (9)(10)

How to use:

• Drink water, oral rehydration solution (ORS), or coconut water in small sips throughout the day. You can also consume water-rich foods.
• Avoid drinking alcohol (11) or carbonated drinks, (12) as they promote dehydration.

Summary:

To relieve a headache caused by dehydration, you need to increase your intake of fluids.

6. Apply a hot compress

The application of gentle heat can help stimulate blood circulation and relax the tense muscles in the area. Both of these therapeutic effects can play a significant role in relieving headaches. However, you have to be careful whenever using heat therapy to avoid burns.

How to use:

• For tension headaches, place a hot compress on your forehead or the back on your neck to loosen the knotted muscles in this area. (13)
• Soak your feet in hot water to help your head feel better. By drawing blood to your feet, the hot-water footbath will ease pressure on the blood vessels in your head. For a really bad headache, add a bit of hot mustard powder to the water.

7. Consume caffeine

Caffeine reduces blood vessel swelling and thus, can help relieve a headache. This is why caffeine is an ingredient in some extra-strength painkillers. (14)

Note that caffeine withdrawal can cause headaches, creating a vicious cycle, so you must consult your doctor about the proper way of using this remedy.

How to use:

Generally, the recommended intake is between 200 mg and 300 mg a day, which is no more than 3 cups. But your doctor will review your overall health to suggest the appropriate amount for you.

Note: Excessive caffeine intake can adversely interact with certain medications and supplements and increase the risk of heart ailments. Thus, you must consume caffeine in moderation to maximize its benefits while avoiding its risks.

8. Consume butterbur products

There is currently no cure for migraines but the best you can do manage them by identifying and avoiding triggers, which is often quite difficult.

When all other tools fail, you can take butterbur supplements. Butterbur is a medicinal herb that has proven quite effective in managing migraines both in children and adults.

Most migraine specialists recommend this medicine to their patients, which points to its safety and efficacy. (15)(16)

How to use:

The prescribed dosage of butterbur supplements is 75 mg taken two times a day for the first month, which is then tapered down to 50 mg twice a day.

Note: Consult your doctor before taking butterbur supplements to determine the correct dosage and safety of the brand. Also, some butterbur products contain harmful chemicals called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) that can induce lung or liver damage, hamper your blood flow, and cause cancer. Thus, make sure your product is labeled PA-free before using it.

9. Take vitamin B complex

There are eight types of B vitamins, some of which have been found useful in reducing the severity and incidence of headaches. These include riboflavin (B₂), folate (B₉), cobalamin (B₁₂), and pyridoxine (B₆). (17)

You can get your required dosage of these vital nutrients through your diet or oral supplementation. B complex vitamins contain the necessary amounts of all the B vitamins and are available in pill form at most pharmacies.

Ask your doctor about the appropriate dosage before starting this supplement, which has proven to be quite a safe and inexpensive treatment for headaches.

How to use:

Daily doses of 400 to 500 mg of vitamin B2 may help prevent migraines in some people.

Note: Consult your doctor before consuming any supplements.

10. Consume or inhale apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is yet another anecdotal remedy for headaches, especially those triggered by poorly regulated blood sugar or sinus problems. This mildly acidic liquid has been credited with a lot of therapeutic potential but there isn’t any solid scientific evidence to substantiate these claims.

Nevertheless, a lot of general users have reported positive results after using this remedy with little to no side effects, if used correctly.

How to use:

• Mix 2 teaspoons of ACV in a glass of water, and add some honey and lemon juice to it for better taste. Drink this tonic thrice a day for headache relief.
• Take equal amounts of water and ACV in a pot and bring this mixture to a boil. Then, breathe in the therapeutic vapors to relieve sinus headaches.

Note: ACV can erode the tooth enamel, which is why it’s important to drink this tonic through a straw and rinse your mouth thereafter.

Alternative Treatment for Headaches

Acupressure is a complementary therapy that can make your headaches less intense or less frequent, but it must only be performed by a specialist.

Acupressure involves the application of pressure to specific points of the body, known as acupoints. This technique is part of traditional Chinese medicine. Acupressure helps in releasing muscle tension and enhances blood circulation, thus helping in relieving pain and other problems.

One study demonstrated the effective use of acupressure to relieve chronic headaches. (18)(19) Consult an expert for acupressure therapy.

Living With Headaches: Self-Care Measures

Making changes in your daily routine can help in the management of headaches. Some measures that can be taken include the following:

• Get adequate rest and sleep for 6–7 hours to avoid sleep deprivation.
• Take a bath with warm water.
• Avoid things that trigger your headache. These may include some drinks, such as red wine, or foods, such as dried fruits with sulfates or certain cheeses.
• Do not stay hungry. Avoid fasting and eat at regular intervals.
• Sleep comfortably. Change your bedding or sleeping position if needed.
• Maintain good posture at all times.
• Do not strain your eyes. Get an eye checkup and wear prescription glasses if required.
• Practice meditation to help reduce the incidence of headaches.
• Exercise regularly. This helps in stress reduction and releases endorphins (your body’s natural pain killers). Exercising also helps you obtain good-quality sleep. (20)(21)
• Use a mouth guard if you grind your teeth.
• Avoid alcohol consumption.
• Practice biofeedback techniques, such as abdominal breathing.
• Use heat therapy to manage tension headaches. It may also be used for migraine attacks. However, heat may be a headache-trigger for some.
• Practice yoga as it helps in alleviating the symptoms of migraine. A study compared patients with migraine using conventional care versus conventional care plus yoga 5 days a week for 6 weeks. The group that used conventional migraine treatments plus yoga experienced fewer migraine headaches and less severe headaches when they did occur. (22)

Most-Asked Questions About Headaches

What is occipital neuralgia?

Inflammation or injury in the occipital nerves can cause severe headaches. This condition is called occipital neuralgia.

The occipital nerves run from the top of the spinal cord to the scalp. Occipital neuralgia produces a throbbing, chronic pain, which may occur at the back of the head, around the ears, or in the upper neck.

Can menstruation cause a headache?

A change in hormone levels can trigger headaches. The levels of estrogen and progesterone change before your periods, causing headaches. This is more prominent in women who complain of a migraine.

The headache may be accompanied by joint pain, acne, and fatigue.

Is there a link between a ketogenic diet and headaches?

A keto diet works by reducing the amount of carbohydrates that you consume in a day.

The sudden switch from using starch as an energy source to utilizing the fat stored in your body requires adjustment. This transition period may be associated with a headache.

Headaches caused by a keto diet may last for 1 day to 1 week. If your headache does not subside after that, consult your doctor.

Why headache accompanied by stomach ache occurs?

A headache and stomach ache may occur together due to various reasons. These include infections in the stomach, gastroenteritis (stomach flu), abdominal migraine, kidney diseases, and even excessive alcohol intake.

To find the underlying cause of the headache, the following tests are done based on the information you provide your doctor:

• Sinus X-rays
• Blood tests
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computed tomography scan (CT scan)

Final Word

Headaches usually resolve on their own and do not require medical attention. But if the condition becomes increasingly frequent such that you get three or more headaches a month, you should seek preventative treatment from a doctor.

OTC medications and lifestyle changes such as staying hydrated and taking proper rest can help relieve occasional headaches, but chronic ones can be the result of serious underlying disorders that require a specific treatment plan.

Continue ReadingDifferent Types of Headaches and When to See a Doctor

References

1. Sprouse-Blum AS, Gabriel AK, Brown JP, Yee MH. Randomized controlled trial: targeted neck cooling in the treatment of the migraine patient. Hawai’i journal of medicine & public health: a journal of Asia Pacific Medicine & Public Health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3727573/. Published July 2013.
2. Martins LB; Rodrigues AMDS; Rodrigues DF; Dos Santos LC; Teixeira AL; Ferreira AVM; Double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial of ginger ( Zingiber officinale Rosc.) addition in migraine acute treatment. Cephalalgia: an international journal of headache. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29768938/.
3. Sasannejad P, Saeedi M, Shoeibi A, Gorji A, Abbasi M, Foroughipour M. Lavender essential oil in the treatment of migraine headache: a placebo-controlled clinical trial. European neurology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22517298/. Published 2012.
4. Koulivand PH, Khaleghi Ghadiri M, Gorji A. Lavender and the nervous system. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine: eCAM. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3612440/. Published 2013.
5. Göbel H, Heinze A, Heinze-Kuhn K, Göbel A, Göbel C. Peppermint oil in the acute treatment of tension-type headache. Schmerz (Berlin, Germany). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27106030. Published June 2016.
6. Gröber U, Schmidt J, Kisters K. Magnesium in Prevention and Therapy. Nutrients. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4586582/. Published September 23, 2015.
7. Mauskop A, Varughese J. Why all migraine patients should be treated with magnesium. Journal of neural transmission (Vienna, Austria: 1996). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22426836. Published May 2012.
8. Price A, Burls A. Increased water intake to reduce headache: learning from a critical appraisal. Journal of evaluation in clinical practice. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26200171. Published December 2015.
9. Shaheen NA, Alqahtani AA, Assiri H, Alkhodair R, Hussein MA. Public knowledge of dehydration and fluid intake practices: variation by participants’ characteristics. BMC public health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6282244/. Published December 5, 2018.
10. Spigt M, Weerkamp N, Troost J, van Schayck CP, Knottnerus JA. A randomized trial on the effects of regular water intake in patients with recurrent headaches. Family practice. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22113647. Published August 2012.
11. Polhuis KCMM, Wijnen AHC, Sierksma A, Calame W, Tieland M. The Diuretic Action of Weak and Strong Alcoholic Beverages in Elderly Men: A Randomized Diet-Controlled Crossover Trial. Nutrients. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5537780/. Published June 28, 2017.
12. García-Arroyo FE, Cristóbal M, Arellano-Buendía AS, et al. Rehydration with soft drink-like beverages exacerbates dehydration and worsens dehydration-associated renal injury. American journal of physiology. Regulatory, integrative and comparative physiology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6195650/. Published July 1, 2016.
13. Ravishankar K, Chakravarty A, Chowdhury D, Shukla R, Singh S. Guidelines on the diagnosis and the current management of headache and related disorders. Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3152170/. Published July 2011.
14. Lipton RB, Diener H-C, Robbins MS, Garas SY, Patel K. Caffeine in the management of patients with headache. The journal of headache and pain. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5655397/. Published October 24, 2017.
15. Anderson N, Borlak J. Hepatobiliary Events in Migraine Therapy with Herbs-The Case of Petadolex, A Petasites Hybridus Extract. Journal of clinical medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6572430/. Published May 10, 2019.
16. BV; SAS. Butterbur: an alternative therapy for migraine prevention. American journal of health-system pharmacy: AJHP: official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20410544/.
17. Shaik MM, Gan SH. Vitamin supplementation as possible prophylactic treatment against migraine with aura and menstrual migraine. BioMed research international. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4359851/. Published 2015.
18. Chen Y-W, Wang H-H. The effectiveness of acupressure on relieving pain: a systematic review. Pain management nursing: official journal of the American Society of Pain Management Nurses. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23415783. Published June 2014.
19. Hsieh LL-C, Liou H-H, Lee L-H, Chen TH-H, Yen AM-F. Effect of acupressure and trigger points in treating headache: a randomized controlled trial. The American journal of Chinese medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20128040. Published 2010.
20. Varkey E, Cider A, Carlsson J, Linde M. Exercise as migraine prophylaxis: a randomized study using relaxation and topiramate as controls. Cephalalgia: an international journal of headache. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3236524/. Published October 2011.
21. Ahn AH. Why does increased exercise decrease migraine? Current pain and headache reports. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3942090/. Published December 2013.
22. Kisan R, Sujan M, Adoor M, et al. Effect of Yoga on migraine: A comprehensive study using clinical profile and cardiac autonomic functions. International journal of yoga. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25035622. Published July 2014.

Caffeine and Migraine | American Migraine Foundation

Key Points about Caffeine and Migraines

• Caffeine affects pain.
• Acute treatment of headaches with caffeine is sometimes effective but should be limited to not more than two days per week.
• For people who experience migraine, caffeine taken three or more days per week, for whatever reason, may lead to dependency and increased migraine frequency.
• For those who have frequent headaches, avoidance of all caffeine is ideal, and at least until improvement in headache frequency is seen.

Migraine patients often report that a strong cup of coffee can stop some attacks. This is not surprising to hear. Caffeine is a key active ingredient in many headache medications including Excedrin^TM, Anacin^TM, Midol^TM, Darvon Compound^TM, Fioricet^TM, and Migranal^TM. Caffeine may aid in the body’s absorption of these medicines, but can caffeine itself relieve headaches? Few research studies have examined this question, but the answer appears to be yes. Caffeine can provide some headache relief. For example, one small controlled study found that caffeine was better than placebo, and as good as acetaminophen, in relieving tension-type headaches.

So why not just treat your headaches with coffee? Unfortunately, caffeine’s effects on the brain can vary tremendously depending upon how often you use it. With occasional use, it may provide modest acute headache relief as well as its characteristic satisfying sense of alertness and well-being. However, with daily or near-daily caffeine exposure, the brain may develop a tolerance for the drug. This means a given dose becomes less effective with repeated use. Dependency develops when the brain expects that an additional dose of caffeine will be coming soon. If that caffeine expectation is unmet, a withdrawal syndrome results which includes headache itself as a prominent symptom, along with fatigue, trouble concentrating, nausea, and other symptoms suggestive of migraine. An example of this withdrawal syndrome may be the “weekend migraine,” where attacks tend to occur on Saturdays or Sundays associated with “sleeping in” and delaying the morning cup of coffee.

We don’t fully understand the mechanisms underlying the different effects of caffeine on the brain. However, the specific targets of action of caffeine in the brain and nerves outside the brain are known.

Caffeine affects the activity of a naturally occurring and necessary brain substance called adenosine. Adenosine levels in the blood go up during migraine attacks. Furthermore, adenosine, when injected into a vein, can trigger migraine attacks. Adenosine is widely available in the brain and can produce many effects including less brain electrical activity, temporary widening of blood vessels, and control of some aspects of sleep and movement. Adenosine acts by sticking to specific receptor molecules on the surfaces of some brain cells. Caffeine can block the action of these receptors, and, thereby, stop the effects of adenosine. We do not know how these effects of caffeine result in acute anti-migraine and pain control actions.

In daily caffeine users, caffeine has less of an effect on brain action and blood vessel size. Caffeine withdrawal may lead to a significant increase in blood flow in the brain. This is due to an increase in blood vessel size as a result of stretching or dilation. These chronic effects of caffeine are likely a result of changes in the numbers, types, and change in function of adenosine receptors active on brain cells. These changes may contribute to caffeine tolerance and dependency.

Caffeine is the world’s most popular drug, and coffee is possibly the second most valuable product after oil. Up to 90% of Americans of all ages consume some caffeine daily with more than 50% consuming coffee daily. More than 50% average 300mg per day, with an average daily dosage for all consumers of about 200mg. One report estimates nearly 95% of Brazil’s population consumes caffeine daily, whereas only about 63% of Canadian adults do so. The average dietary caffeine consumption in some Scandinavian countries is more than 400 mg per person per day. It is not hard to reach 200-300mg of caffeine daily since a standard eight-ounce cup of coffee made by the American drip method contains between 125mg and 250mg of caffeine. A 12-ounce can of Coca-Cola contains 34mg. Also, the usual ‘cup’ of coffee for many individuals is often actually 12 or even 16 ounces and sometimes more.

Do not underestimate the power or potency of caffeine. Caffeine dependency can occur after as little as seven days of exposure. 100mg per day can sustain dependency. In fact, many individuals can avoid caffeine withdrawal symptoms by as little as 25mg—the equivalent of about two tablespoons of most “gourmet” coffees. Carefully controlled studies show that caffeine doses as low as about 10mg can be reliably noticed by particularly sensitive people. These studies also show that more than 30 percent of people can feel the effects of 18mg or less.

Is “decaf” coffee OK? According to a US Department of Agriculture rule, 97.5 % of caffeine must be removed from coffee in order for it to be called decaffeinated. Therefore, the starting potency of coffee is very relevant to the final potency of decaf. University of Florida researchers have measured up to 6.9 mg caffeine per eight ounces of Starbucks brewed, decaffeinated coffee and up to 15.8 mg caffeine per 1 oz shot of Starbucks decaffeinated espresso. So only a couple of cups of decaf a day might still have a considerable effect on some people.

Studies of caffeine dependency and tolerance show that daily caffeine users are actually more motivated to consume it to avoid withdrawal symptoms than to experience the lift that its stimulant properties may provide. Caffeine’s combination of a punishing syndrome of withdrawal, along with a rewarding sense of wakefulness, has made coffee, tea, and chocolate, some of humanity’s best-loved foods. One might say that caffeine-producing plants have succeeded in motivating humans to cultivate them widely and with very great care.

Not everyone consuming daily caffeine is equally likely to develop dependency and withdrawal syndrome. Studies indicate that genetics make some people more likely than others. Scientists do not know whether the inherited tendency to experience caffeine withdrawal syndrome relates to the genetic factors that cause migraines. However, chronic daily headache (CDH) patients are much more likely to use daily dietary caffeine and/or prefer caffeine-containing headache medications. Moreover, people who occasionally experience migraine attacks are at a higher risk of developing CDH when they also consume caffeine daily as well.

In one study, consumers of 100mg caffeine daily had nearly three times higher likelihood of developing CDH than those drinking less. This association is particularly notable for young women—a group already at greater risk for migraine and the march or progression to daily headache.

In summary, caffeine may lead to the development of medication-overuse headache (so-called “rebound” headache). As such, patients should limit caffeine use as recommended for other acute medications for migraines. This use should not exceed two days per week.

The unwelcome news is that patients with a history of severe or chronic migraine should consider eliminating caffeine entirely, at least for several months. This typically needs to be done with removal of other overused painkillers and the addition of further preventive management of headache. Removing caffeine alone is rarely enough to solve the problem. For patients with high daily caffeine intake, this reduction in use should be achieved over a gradual taper of days or even weeks to limit the impact of withdrawal syndrome.

If you elect removal in a “cold turkey” manner, you may suffer severe migraine attacks which are more difficult to bring under control. Once migraine attacks are no longer frequent, caffeine might be reintroduced, but limited to no more than two days per week, if at all. For some people, it seems that any amount of caffeine can trigger or worsen migraine. A headache log or diary helps to determine if resuming caffeine leads to more headaches.

It is important to emphasize that caffeine consumption is rarely the sole “cause” of frequent headaches including migraine. However, it is a modifiable risk factor, unlike many other unavoidable migraine triggers. Caffeine is often a significant and overlooked contributor to the problem of frequent and chronic daily headache. Migraine sufferers should use caffeine less frequently or remove it entirely as one component of a program of therapies for success, and it requires no prescription.

Robert E. Shapiro, MD, Ph.D., Professor of Neurology, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, VT.

Robert Cowan, MD, Clinical Professor of Neurology & Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA.

This article is a legacy contribution from the American Headache Society Committee for Headache Education (ACHE) and the Fred Sheftell, MD Education Center.

11 Drinks That Will Help Your Headache

Next time your head begins to throb, reach for a glass instead of a pill bottle. Try these drinks for headaches and migraines for a more delicious way to feel better.

All headaches are not created equal. With tension headaches, caffeine headaches, sinus headaches, hangover headaches and full-blown migraine attacks, the causes and symptoms vary from headache to headache and person to person. If you are one of the millions of people who are prone to headaches or migraines, these drinks for headaches may help stop the pain and nausea.

The symptoms of a migraine or headache can be wide-ranging and debilitating. Sensitivity to light, sound and smell; nausea, vomiting, and constipation; brain fog and head pain are all ways migraines bring you down and ruin your day. Luckily, you may not need to treat milder headaches with an expensive medication or a prescription. Often, you can find relief right in your own kitchen with these drinks for headaches.

Most migraines are severe enough that doctors will prescribe a prescription medication, such as a triptan, to abort an attack. Triptans are highly effective, but people are often reluctant to take them. If you are one of the many people who gets frequent migraines or headaches, taking a pill each time can actually make them worse. Natural alternatives, like these 11 drinks for headaches, can bring you relief and help you save money and medication.

These drinks are safe with few or no side effects, too, so you do not have to worry about feeling worse before you feel better. Staying hydrated during a headache or migraine is crucial, and these drinks all help with hydration while treating symptoms.

If you do get migraines, keep your food triggers in mind. Certain ingredients like almonds, citrus, and bananas, (marked with an asterisk below) can be triggers for some people some of the time.

Good Old-Fashioned Water

Dehydration leads to a world of hurt for those of us with headaches. Headaches and migraines thrive on dehydration, so drinking enough water every single day is super important to prevent them. Drinking water during a headache or migraine attack can help it from getting worse, and can make it go away if it was caused by dehydration. If you have a hard time drinking that much plain water, try infusing it with fruit like mango or strawberries. See even more tips for staying hydrating and headache-free.

Almond* Milk

Almonds* are high in magnesium, one of the most important minerals for migraine sufferers. A 2012 study showed that magnesium can help prevent migraines and may help treat them as well. A handful of almonds is another good choice, but drinking a glass of almond milk is an even easier way to get a dose of magnesium to stop an attack. Almond milk doubles as a dehydration fighter, and it tastes great in fresh fruit and vegetable smoothies.

Feverfew Tea

Steep feverfew leaves in hot water to create your own tea. For even more headache relief and a dose of prevention, add some almond milk and a spoonful of honey. Feverfew has anti-inflammatory. properties that can help relieve a headache, and feverfew can also prevent migraines.

Cayenne Pepper in Warm Water

The compound in cayenne that makes it spicy, called capsaicin, dulls one of the neurotransmitters responsible for sending pain signals to the brain. Some studies show that it can relieve cluster headaches or migraines, especially when applied directly to the skin. Drinking cayenne may help, too, so try sprinkling a little bit in warm water next time you feel a migraine coming on.

Liquid Fish Oil

Fish oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, powerful anti-inflammatories that deliver a powerhouse of strength to your heart and brain. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that those who consume fish oil are less likely to suffer from heart attacks and strokes. Fish oil can even help preserve memory and prevent decline in brain function.

Warm Lemon* Water

Drinking warm lemon water after waking up is an ancient health custom. The lemon is high in vitamin C and helps the body cleanse itself from the inside out. The citric acid kick-starts the digestive system, which can slow down during a migraine attack. Add a spoonful of honey for an even more delicious and nourishing drink.

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint is another ancient remedy. It has been used to soothe an upset or nauseous stomach, as it can relax nerves and muscle spasm in the gut. An upset stomach is common during a migraine attack, and the gut and brain are intimately connected. Soothing the stomach with peppermint tea, delicious both iced and hot, can help soothe an aching head, too.

Ginger Tea

Ginger is another ancient remedy for an upset stomach and is one of the most popular drinks for headaches and migraines. It can be easily brewed into a tea, delicious on its own or with honey. In 2014, the Journal of Phytotherapy Research published an article exploring ginger for migraine relief. They found ginger to be as effective as sumatriptan, a commonly prescribed med, when it comes to reducing migraine pain. Ginger is safe to use in reasonable amounts and is worth a try for inexpensive and simple migraine relief.

Green Juice

A green juice is a fantastic way to give your body a large dose of all the vitamins and minerals it needs to fight a migraine. From calcium to magnesium to B vitamins, juices are loaded with vitamins that are known to tame headaches. For our Potent Migraine Pain Relief Shake recipe, click here.

Healing Homemade Ginger Ale

You can make your own, healthier version of ginger ale at home to help you stay hydrated and find migraine relief. Ginger does double duty for nausea and headache relief. Home-made sodas do not have additives or sweeteners that store-bought ones do that might trigger migraines in some people. Making soda at home gives you complete control of the ingredients and the flavor.

Watermelon and Cucumber Smoothie with Honey and Mint

The ingredients in this smoothie are full of vitamins and minerals. Watermelons are full of water, magnesium, and potassium which help reduce brain fog and increase focus. Honey is rich in many minerals that aid in blood vessel relaxation, which promotes the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain.

Please Note: Certain ingredients identified with an asterisk (*) are reported as migraine triggers by some patients. Migraine food triggers are a very personal thing – learn more here. If you think you’re sensitive, please make a substitution.

Top Five Pressure Points to Treat Headaches

No one is immune to the occasional headache, for many, chronic headaches or migraines are unfortunately a lifetime ailment. Key West Wellness Center provides multiple services to assist you with preventing headaches and with alleviating the pain during an attack. You are welcome to contact our office to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

Headaches and migraines can strike at any time and since we are not with you 24/7, we want to share some tips on how to apply pressure to five top pressure points in hopes to relieve head pain, these are great techniques to use in between your Key West Wellness Center appointments.

Experiencing the pain and discomfort of a headache is incredibly common. If you’re looking for a more natural way to treat your headache, you may want to think about acupressure and pressure points.

Pressure
points are parts of the body believed to be extra sensitive, able to
stimulate relief in the body. Practitioners of reflexology, a discipline of
Chinese medicine, believe that touching pressure points in a certain way can,
improve your health, ease pain and restore balance in the body.

Reflexology
is the study of how one part of the human body is connected to another. This
means you might have to massage a different location — like your hand — to
treat a different area, like your head. You’ll reach for the right pressure
points to ease your pain.

How to use pressure points to relieve headaches

There are some well-known pressure points in the body believed to relieve
headaches. Here’s where they are and how you can use them:

Union valley points are located on the web between your thumb and index finger. To treat headaches:

1. Start by pinching this area with the thumb and index finger of your opposite hand firmly — but not painfully — for 10 seconds.
2. Next, make small circles with your thumb on this area in one direction and then the other, for 10 seconds each.
3. Repeat this process on the Union Valley point on your opposite hand.

This type of pressure point treatment is believed to relieve tension in the
head and neck. Tension is often associated with headaches.

Drilling bamboo points are located at the indentations on either side of the spot where the bridge of your nose meets the ridge of your eyebrows. To use these pressure points to treat headaches:

1. Use both of your index fingers to apply firm pressure to both points at once.
2. Hold for 10 seconds.
3. Release and repeat.

Touching these pressure points can relieve headaches that are caused by eyestrain
and sinus pain
or pressure.

Gates of consciousness points are located at the base of the skull in the parallel hollow areas between the two vertical neck muscles. To use these pressure points:

1. Place your index and middle fingers of either hand onto these pressure points.
2. Press firmly upward on both sides at once for 10 seconds, then release and repeat.

Applying firm touch to these pressure points can help relieve headaches
caused by tension in the neck.

Third eye point can be found between your two eyebrows where the bridge of your nose meets your forehead.

1. Use the index finger of one hand to apply firm pressure to this area for 1 minute.

Firm pressure applied to the third eye pressure point is thought to relieve
eyestrain and sinus pressure that often cause headaches.

Shoulder well point is located at the edge of your shoulder, halfway between your shoulder point and the base of your neck. To use this pressure point:

1. Use the thumb of one hand to apply firm, circular pressure to this point for 1 minute.
2. Then switch and repeat on the opposite side.

Applying firm touch to the shoulder well pressure point can help relieve
stiffness in your neck and shoulders, relieving neck pain and preventing
headaches caused by this kind of sensation.

Other natural ways to alleviate a headache

Dehydration
can contribute to your sinus passages drying out and increased pressure in your
face. Increase your water intake
throughout the day if you’re feeling under the weather. Fluids will reduce
blockages in your sinuses.

While water may be your first choice
to remain hydrated, you can also retain fluids through other foods and beverages
including, broth soups,
ice cubes, tea or water-based
vegetables and fruits

Exercise can reduce sinus pressure. Physical activity can increase blood circulation and temporarily relieve congestion to ease breathing. Although uncomfortable to perform while being sick, physical activity can help to improve your recovery time and speed healing.

We provide services to treat and prevent headaches. Contact our office to learn more.

Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P.
3420 Duck Ave, Key West, FL 33040
[email protected]
(305) 296-5358
www.keywestwellnesscenter.com

Acupuncture, Acupressure, Reflexology, Bio-Injections, Vitamin Injections, Herbal Medicine, AcuGraph Diagnostics, Energy Healing, Raindrop Therapy Massage, Massage Therapy, NeuroMuscular Therapy, Deep Tissue Massage, Myofascial Release

Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/pressure-points-for-headaches#1

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column]
[/et_pb_row]
[/et_pb_section]

11 Effective Home Remedies for Headache during Pregnancy

At FirstCry Parenting, our aim is to give you the most elevant, accurate and up to date information.

Every article that we publish, confirms to stringent guidelines & involves several levels of reviews, both from our Editorial team & Experts. We welcome your suggestions in making this platform more useful for all our users. Write in to us at [email protected]

Last Updated on March 11, 2020

Pregnancy is a time when a woman is excited and nervous, thinking about that little bundle of joy who would bring so much joy in her life. Pregnancy brings about a lot of changes in a woman’s body and it also leads to several discomforts, such as headaches. Yes, experiencing headaches during pregnancy is as common as experiencing morning sickness, nausea, or fatigue. Headaches might occur at any time during pregnancy but they tend to be more common during the first and third trimesters. If you are pregnant and experiencing this symptom, you can, of course, consult a doctor or you should opt for natural remedies for headaches.

Common Reasons for Headaches During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, hormonal changes and an increase in blood volume can lead to headaches. These are the most common causes of headaches in pregnancy. But there are several other reasons why you may experience headaches while pregnant.

• Stress
• Poor posture
• Lack of sleep
• Low blood sugar
• Caffeine withdrawal
• Dehydration

Natural Remedies for Headaches During Pregnancy

It is advisable to rely on home remedies to deal with the problem of headache since medications should be taken only after consultations with doctors. In addition, there are probable side effects of medications on babies that need to be taken care of. So, try these following home remedies, and you might be able to relieve yourself of a headache without any medications.

1. Drink Lots of Water

Staying hydrated can help provide relief from headaches during pregnancy. In the pregnancy phase, it is important to stay hydrated in order to keep your body energized and ensure proper circulation of enzymes and proteins. Try to drink at least 8 ounces of water each day to prevent headaches.

2. Use a Cold Compress

During pregnancy, migraine can be caused due to expanded blood vessels in the head. A cold compress can help in tightening the blood vessels and shrinking the cells and thus help in alleviating the pain. You can use an ice pack if you like or you can make a cold compress at home. All you will need is a clean towel and a bowl of cold water. Dip the towel in water and squeeze out extra water. Lie down on a comfortable surface and place the towel on your forehead and eyes, and press it gently. A cold compress is known to provide relief from vascular headaches such as a migraine.

3. Use a Hot Compress

Shrinking of blood vessels can lead to low blood circulation, which may further cause headaches during pregnancy. Just like a cold compress, you can even try a hot compress. A hot compress helps in alleviating the pain by expanding the blood vessels and increasing the blood flow to the brain. Tension headaches are better treated with a hot compress. For hot compress, you will need a clean towel and a bowl of hot water. Soak the towel in the bowl of water and squeeze out the excess water; apply on the forehead or the base of the neck for relief.

4. Bite Some Ginger

Ginger has been used as a natural remedy for nausea. It also acts as a natural remedy for headache during pregnancy as it treats migraine. Ginger blocks prostaglandins, which stimulate muscle contraction and thus helps prevent headaches. If you don’t want to consume raw ginger, you can also make ginger tea. Here’s how you can make ginger tea.

Ingredients

• 1-inch long ginger root (grated)
• Some peppermint leaves (crushed)
• Half a lemon

Method

Boil two cups of water over medium heat, then add the grated ginger and crushed peppermint leaves to it. Let it boil further for about five minutes more. Turn off the flame, and strain the water in a cup and squeeze half a lemon in it and stir. Ginger tea should provide you with quick relief from a headache.

5. Take a Nap or Practice Yoga

Sometimes, a lack of sleep can trigger headaches and migraines; so if you think you are experiencing a headache because of poor sleep, take a nap, and you will feel better. If you want to sleep longer, then do try anything that will make you feel better.

If you are feeling super-stressed, doing some yoga would be a good idea because of the multiple benefits it offers. Yoga will help lower your stress and help you sleep better. It will also make sure that your body gets the required exercise during pregnancy.

6. Try a Prenatal Massage

Go to a prenatal massage therapist to relieve the stress from shoulders, neck, and back. If going out to the therapist doesn’t work for you, then there are certain massages that can be done at home. Try rubbing your shoulders at the base of your skull and below your wrists. Be aware of trigger points that can induce contractions such as the point between the thumb and index finger, and avoid them.

7. Use Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil has a cooling effect on the skin and reduces tension. It also lessens headache sensitivity. Take a few drops of the peppermint oil in your palms and rub it in between your palms for a few seconds. Apply oil to the temples or forehead and massage for a minute. Do this before going to bed to see positive results.

8. Use Omega-3 Oil

Adding some oil in your diet helps in reducing inflammation. Omega 3 fatty acids that are found in fatty fish reduce the intensity and duration of headaches. Including olive oil and canola oil in the diet can increase the consumption of omega-3 oil. Alternatively, omega-3 fatty acid pills can also be taken.

9. Drink Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has numerous benefits, and fighting headaches is one of them. It also provides relief from stomach cramps and improves the immune system. Pregnancy can reduce vitamin C levels in the body, causing headaches. Lemon also flushes out toxins from the body and improves blood circulation and works as an antioxidant.

To prepare a lemon juice, you will need

• Half a lemon
• Some ginger grated (optional)
• A glass of hot (or warm) water

Squeeze the lemon into the water and stir in the ginger and drink. This is an effective method to treat a headache at home while pregnant.

10. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil also relaxes and soothes the skin. Therefore, massaging some oil onto the forehead can help reduce the pain.

Additional Tips to Relieve Pregnancy Headaches

Here are some more tips that you can try to get relief from headaches in pregnancy –

• Have small meals throughout the day and ensure that you are consuming enough proteins.
• Put Epsom salts in your bath water and take a warm bath to relax.
• Try acupuncture to relieve the stress points of your body.
• Exercise regularly but don’t overdo.
• Avoid caffeine, as caffeine withdrawal can also trigger headaches.
• In the worst-case scenario, consider taking a paracetamol tablet (650 mg) if nothing else works.

Generally, these headaches are very much manageable at homes, but consult a doctor might be needed if:

• The pain becomes unbearable.
• If a headache is accompanied by a blurry vision or pain in the upper right abdomen and swelling in hands and face.
• A headache starts after six months of pregnancy, which might be a sign of toxaemia and preeclampsia.

A headache is something that everyone experiences from time to time. However, it can be a major source of inconvenience during pregnancy. Try the home remedies mentioned above; but if the pain becomes unbearable, consult a doctor. Have a healthy and safe pregnancy!

What Drinks Help Headaches? 6 That Work

Healthy eating, regular exercise, stress reduction, and plenty of sleep are all lifestyle strategies that can reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks and headaches. But did you know beverages can also help with headache prevention and treatment?

Dehydration is a common trigger for migraines and headaches, and some drinks can even help prevent attacks or manage symptoms. Read on to learn what drinks help headaches, which beverages to avoid if you get migraines, and a few migraine drinks to try.

See what drinks help headaches and migraines: 6 great options

We’ve rounded up some of the top drinks that alleviate headaches or even prevent their onset. Because everyone has different responses to headache treatments and management strategies, you’ll need to use trial and error to see which drinks work best for you. Be sure to keep track of your results in a headache diary.

1. Water helps headaches

Whether you get headaches once in a while or regularly, drinking more water can help reduce their frequency and intensity. In a 2012 study of 102 people with recurring headaches, all participants received information about stress reduction and sleep. But 52 participants were also instructed to increase their daily water intake by 1.5 liters (about 6 cups), while 50 participants received no guidance about water intake.

The group that drank more water scored higher on a quality of life assessment. A larger percentage of the water-drinking group (47 percent) also reported experiencing “much improvement” in their headaches compared to the control group (25 percent).

The study concluded that headache sufferers should increase their water intake to see if they experience similar improvements. As a bonus, it’s a non-invasive, non-medicinal intervention.

To stay hydrated, drink water throughout the day rather than just a few times a day. Don’t substitute sugary soda or juice for water because this can throw off your blood sugar levels and trigger a headache.

Here are a few ways to keep water handy to help combat headaches:

• Get a dedicated travel water bottle. It helps to have one you love in a style you prefer, whether that’s with a wide mouth opening, or a spout or straw top. Insulated models keep your water cold.
• Make space for a water bottle by your bed. Then you’ll always have it when you need it.
• Set reminders. Use your phone’s alarm or a health app to alert you when it’s time to take a few sips.
• Switch it up. Sparkling water is just as hydrating as still water, so add some variety to your water routine with some bubbles.
• Add flavor. Citrus, berries, melon, and herbs infuse your water with flavor, or you can just add a splash of your favorite juice. If you like your water ice cold, mix fruit, herbs, or cucumbers with water in an ice cube tray. The flavor will increase as the ice melts.

2. Ginger tea can help with headaches

A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research in 2014 found ginger is an effective treatment for many migraineurs. For the study, 100 acute migraine patients drank either half a teaspoon of powdered ginger in warm water or took sumatriptan (a common prescription migraine medication) when they had an attack. Both treatments were equally effective, according to patient feedback, and participants were equally willing to continue the use of their assigned treatment.

To drink ginger, add a half teaspoon of ground ginger to warm water or simply enjoy a cup of brewed ginger tea.

Here are a few ginger tea options:

• Ginger tea bags: The simplest way to enjoy ginger tea. Choose a brand known for high-quality herbal teas and brew yourself a cuppa.
• Fresh ginger root tea: You simply boil peeled and sliced fresh ginger in water for about five minutes. Go a few extra minutes for more spice. Add honey or maple syrup to taste (optional).
• Black tea with ginger: Brew tea to your liking and add fresh ginger grated with a microplane.
• Iced ginger tea: Brew black or herbal tea and add sliced fresh ginger. Let cool and transfer to a glass pitcher for storage in the refrigerator.

3. Almond milk and cashew milk can help with migraines

Almonds and cashews are high in magnesium, a nutrient that can protect against migraines. According to the American Migraine Foundation, magnesium can reduce the brain signaling that produces migraine auras and reduce or block the chemicals that transmit pain in the brain. Boost your intake of magnesium by drinking almond milk or cashew milk straight or adding one or both of them to your favorite smoothie recipes.

Here are a few ways to incorporate almond and cashew milk into your regimen:

• Use almond or cashew milk in your morning bowl of cereal.
• Make almond or cashew chocolate milk or hot cocoa.
• Use it as the liquid element in any smoothie, from mixed berries and banana to spinach and peach.

4. Green juice and green smoothies can help with migraine headaches

Green, leafy vegetables are also high in magnesium. Easy ways to get more leafy greens into your diet are by juicing or adding them to your smoothies. Greens highest in magnesium include:

• Spinach
• Kale
• Collard greens
• Swiss chard

Add even more magnesium with these other common smoothie ingredients: banana, avocado, and silken tofu.

Here are a few green smoothie recipes:

• Spinach and pineapple green smoothie: Blend 1 cup of frozen pineapple, two handfuls of baby spinach, 1 small or medium banana, and 1 to 1 ½ cups of almond milk or plain yogurt.
• Kale and mango smoothie: Blend 1 ½ cups frozen mango chunks, 1 cup washed and chopped kale (ribs removed), 1 small or medium banana, and 1 to 1 ½ cups cashew milk.

5. Coffee and black tea can help with migraine

These brewed beverages contain caffeine, which constricts blood vessels. “This is useful in relieving headache pain, since blood vessels tend to enlarge before the beginning of some headache pain, including pain associated with migraine,” according to the National Headache Foundation’s overview of caffeine and headaches. Caffeine is also a common ingredient in headache pain relievers that contain aspirin or acetaminophen because it improves their effectiveness.

Too much caffeine, however, can cause or worsen headaches. A study published in 2019 in the American Journal of Medicine found that one or two caffeinated drinks per day did not increase the risk of a same-day migraine for participants. Three or more caffeinated drinks per day, however, increased the chances participants would experience a same-day migraine.

So, enjoy your coffee or tea each day — but keep it to one or two. Avoid adding too much sugar, and refrain from indulging in those sweet drinks from your favorite coffee shop. Excessive sugar can cause headaches and is detrimental to your overall health.

If you drink moderate amounts of caffeine regularly, be careful of skipping a day as this can trigger a headache from caffeine withdrawal. Finally, the above study found that even one or two cups could trigger headaches in people who rarely drink caffeinated beverages.

6. Melons, cucumbers, and berries can help with headaches

While not technically drinks, many fruits and vegetables contain so much water that they’re borderline beverages. These types of fruits can help keep you hydrated when you want a break from water. Or, you can add chunks of melon, slices of cucumber, and a variety of berries to smoothies (and don’t forget to use almond or cashew milk!).

Enjoy a migraine drink recipe

Mix and match a few of the ingredients above and you may have a powerful migraine drink recipe that works for you. Here’s one possibility:

Spinach, cucumber, ginger, and raspberry smoothie

Combine in a blender:

• 1 cup packed baby spinach
• ½ cup chopped and peeled Persian cucumber
• 1 tsp to 1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger
• ½ banana (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup frozen raspberries
• 1 cup almond milk

Blend on high until fully combined. Add more or less almond milk to control the thickness of your smoothie. Feel free to substitute any frozen berries or frozen chopped fruit you have in your freezer. And don’t forget to note how you respond to the smoothie in your migraine diary!

How do migraine and alcohol interact?

Researchers are still learning more every day about why migraines happen. The link between migraine and alcohol consumption is complex, and researchers haven’t determined how alcohol acts as a trigger. However, many migraineurs and headache sufferers report a link. A 2018 study in the European Journal of Neurology found that a significant percentage of migraine patients consider alcohol a trigger. Of the 2,197 study participants, 35.6 percent said alcohol triggered their migraines and 25 percent said they abstained from alcohol because it was a trigger.

Patients in the study reported these alcoholic beverages as their top triggers (in descending order):

• Red wine
• White wine
• Champagne
• Beer

Vodka was the least reported trigger.

If alcohol is one of your triggers and you rarely partake, abstain completely. If you enjoy the occasional wine, beer, or cocktail, record your responses to alcohol in your migraine diary. This will help you determine whether all alcohol triggers your attacks or only specific alcoholic drinks.

When socializing, skip the alcohol or opt for beverages that don’t trigger your headaches and drink moderately — defined by the US Department of Health and Human Services dietary guidelines as no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

What gets rid of a headache fast?

When you get a headache, you want relief as fast as possible. Here are treatments and strategies that can work quickly:

• Drink a large glass of water
• Take the medication (prescription or over-the-counter) recommended by your doctor
• Drink one cup of caffeinated coffee or tea
• Drink a beverage while using green light therapy 
• Add ginger extract to your water or tea
• Meditate or do yoga
• Sip on a green veggie-packed beverage (juice or smoothie)

Find out more about how to manage migraines, and strategies for relief at work and at home.

Everything else you need to know about what drinks help headaches:

Does Sprite help with headaches?

The idea that the lemon-lime soda helps with headaches stems from a 2013 study of possible hangover cures. In the study, Sprite was found to break down the toxins that cause hangover symptoms — including headache. Because of Sprite’s high sugar content, however, it’s best to choose healthier drinks. High and low blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia) and rapid changes in blood sugar can cause headaches.

Does Coke or Pepsi help with headaches?

Coke contains caffeine, which can reduce headache pain. But Coke is also high in sugar, which has negative health impacts. If you use caffeine to reduce headache pain, opt for a beverage with little or no sugar, such as coffee or tea. Be aware that small amounts of caffeine can help some headache sufferers and migraineurs, but too much caffeine is a possible migraine trigger.

Now you know what drinks help headaches

The best headache management strategies differ for everyone and typically include a mix of treatment options and lifestyle decisions. Water is the clear winner among drinks to help prevent and alleviate headaches. But give the other recommended beverages a try; you may discover one or two that bring fast headache relief or lower your number of headaches overall. Next up, learn how green light therapy helps with headaches.

90,000 How to get rid of headaches?

It is safe to say that there are many people who experience headaches on a daily basis. At a neurologist’s appointment, patients most often complain of cephalalgia or simply pain in the head. About thirteen percent of the people on the planet suffer from chronic headaches.

What types of headaches are there

There are many types of headaches. So, migraine, tension with a headache is often found.Very often, after an injury, a person can experience a severe headache. Typically, the head hurts when blood pressure rises or falls. Patients who have been undergoing drug therapy for a long time suffer from headaches. An infectious disease can cause pain in the head.

During a spasm of the arteries, with venous expansion, weakening of their tone, vascular headache appears. A person who is in a non-physiological position can strain muscles, which lead to the formation of a headache.A non-physiological position can be an incorrect seating of a student at a desk, an office worker at a computer, and so on.

In case of problems with nerves, there is neuralgic pain. In violation of the exchange of mediators of the central nervous system, a person suffers from psychoactive pain. When all of the above factors are mixed with each other, then there is a mixed headache. It can develop simultaneously or with the onset of the influence of one factor or another.

Why is there a headache?

If a person suffers from a headache, he must definitely consult a neurologist.Otherwise, you can get a pathology of the nervous system, organs that signal a problem in the form of pain in the head.
So, pain in the head becomes a signal of hypertension, diseases of the ENT organs, as well as stomach problems, infectious diseases. Often with dental problems, the pain is transmitted to the head.

Diagnosis of headaches

After the patient undergoes a comprehensive examination by a neurologist, the diagnosis is established. So, encephalography, electroencephalography, P graphics of the cranium, MRI and some other studies are prescribed.

Headache treatment

Experts strongly advise against treating headaches with medicines that only relieve pain. It is especially not recommended to treat pain that has developed into chronic pain with painkillers. The drugs do not fight the cause of the headache, but only reduce it. It is proved that in 20 percent of the developed countries of the world, people have a disease that is caused by the immense intake of painkillers – abusal pain.

Based on the diagnosis made by the doctors, complex headache treatment is prescribed.Each patient is treated separately, taking into account the characteristics of the body. To get rid of headaches, doctors use different means. It can be medicines, psychotherapy, various kinds of training, massages (to relieve tension in the muscles of the head). Physical therapy, MRI, laser therapy are used, and homeopathic medicines are also prescribed.

With regard to modern drug treatment, doctors use drugs of the nootropic type, vascular, antidepressants, as well as drugs that relax muscle tissue.Along with drug therapy, non-drug treatment is prescribed. In addition, there are patients who have allergic reactions to medications. In this situation, non-drug treatment is the only way to help the patient. Most often, this is done with those patients who have been taking analgesics for a long time.

So, there are many causes of headaches. It is possible to identify their cause only with a comprehensive study.An individual treatment program is assigned to each patient. Medical center “Carnelian” has the necessary equipment that will help determine the cause of the headache.

Headache: Why headache

Perhaps there is no person who at least once in his life has not faced a headache. It happens to both a child and an old man, regardless of gender, income level or geographic area. Why does a headache happen and how is it treated?

What is a headache

Headache is a condition characterized by a disruption in the daily life of a person, which occurs against the background of such types of primary headaches as migraine, tension headache and cluster headache.It may have other causes or consequences of other reasons, for example, in connection with taking too much medication or pregnancy. This is one of the most common disorders of the nervous system.

People suffering from chronic headaches report both a deterioration in well-being and a decrease in the quality of life, material losses associated with this. In addition to pain, people may also feel anxiety about their condition, expecting new attacks. Frequent pain negatively affects relationships with loved ones and colleagues, and interferes with personal growth.

Persistent headaches can provoke the onset of other diseases. Headache can occur on its own, in other cases, it is supplemented by other symptoms of poor health.

Headache, periodically, can occur in absolutely healthy people.

Causes of pain in the head

Sources of pain in the head can be:

• Sleep disturbance;
• Infectious diseases;
• Past diseases of the brain;
• Brain tumors;
• Blood pressure surges;
• Chronic stress;
• Hormonal disorders;
• Sunstroke or heatstroke;
• Hypothermia;
• Sensitivity to changing weather conditions;
• Excessive physical activity;
• Effects of smoking or alcohol abuse.

In addition, headaches can be provoked by pathologies of the spine (such as scoliosis, kyphosis), insufficient oxygen saturation of the brain. Often, it is the pain in the head that is their first sign. In order to establish a diagnosis, the doctor, first of all, needs to determine the place where the headache is localized, as well as how long it lasts, how often it recurs, as well as all the symptoms that accompany it. After the research, he will be able to prescribe a course of treatment.

In children, the most common causes of headache are trauma, previous infectious diseases, mental health disorders.

Types of headaches

One of the most famous types of headaches is migraine .

• Refers to the type of primary pain.
• Most often, it first occurs during puberty, but it is most painfully tolerated by people aged 35 to 45 years.
• Migraines are more common in women than in men.The reason for this is hormones.
• The cause of migraine is the triggering of a mechanism in the deep parts of the brain, which provokes the release of inflammatory substances around the blood vessels of the head, which provokes the onset of pain.
• The site of localization is in the temporo-frontal-orbital region.

Migraine is characterized by recurrent attacks throughout life. They can be described by the following symptoms:

• Severe throbbing pain;
• With physical exertion, the condition worsens, the intensity of the pain increases;
• The duration of an attack can be from several hours to several days;
• Painful sensations may be accompanied by nausea;
• Frequency from once a week to once a year.

The most common primary pain is tension headache (TH). May be triggered by physical, psychological, environmental factors.

• It first occurs in puberty, for women it is more typical than for men. The reason is the same as with migraine.
• The cause of HDN is stress or disorders in the dorsal and cervical spine.
• This pain lasts from 2 hours to 2 days.
• For HDN, constant pressing pain is characteristic, described as a tight hoop on the head, most noticeable in the forehead and back of the head. It starts to hurt from the neck, then the pain spreads to the head.
• The person becomes very sensitive to noise and light.
• Accompanied by distraction and sleep disorders.

Another common type is cluster headache (KGB).

• It is extremely rare, while, for the most part, men suffer from it.
• Occurs after 20 years, most often people complain about it after 30 years.
• The KGB is characterized by repeated intense bouts of pain on one side of the head that quickly subside. In addition to headache, they are accompanied by redness of the eyes, tearing, runny nose, general malaise, anxiety.

Headache caused by excessive drug use (GBL).

• The reason for this pain is prolonged uncontrolled intake of medications.
• More typical for women than for men.
• GBL is characterized by pressing pain, the peak of which falls in the first half of the day.
• When setting up a regimen for taking medications, monitoring the patient’s condition by a doctor, such pain quickly disappears.

Symptoms of a headache

Depending on the type of headache, it can be:

• Unilateral, throbbing, in the temple or eye area, may be accompanied by nausea, general weakness, numbness of the limbs.This pain is typical for migraines.
• Moderate pressing pain in the temples or occiput after physical exertion or nervous strain. This is characteristic of tension headaches.
• Unbearable pain in the temple or eye on one side. It does not go away without medical assistance. This is a description of cluster pain.
• Pain in the head, which has arisen suddenly, is so severe that a person can hardly endure it, accompanying impaired coordination of movements and speech may indicate cerebral hemorrhage, stroke.
• If, simultaneously with a headache, there is an increased body temperature, pain in the neck, photophobia, then these symptoms indicate meningitis.

First aid for acute headache

For any discomfort in the head area, and even more severe sharp pain, you need to lie down on your back, if this is not possible, then sit down and relax. It is important that a person has a sufficient amount of fresh air, so it is worth opening the vents and providing ventilation.The head must be freed from the cap, loosen the hair if the hair is tight on the head.

A cold compress can be applied to the head for 3-5 minutes.

If the headache is associated with overload at work, prolonged work at the computer, then it is enough to alternate work and rest to solve the problem of pain.

It is important to eliminate the source of bright light: wear sunglasses outdoors, turn off the TV indoors, make the light dim.

A warm shower will also help cope with headaches.But a contrast shower is contraindicated for headaches, as it can provoke vasospasm.

Sleep also has a positive effect on the prevention of headaches: you need to sleep at least 7-8 hours, go to bed at the same time. Before going to bed, it is advisable to take a walk in the fresh air, the room in which you will sleep should be well ventilated.

A sufficient amount of pure water helps to cope with a mild headache, while coffee, strong tea can only intensify it.

What not to do when you have a headache

If you have a headache, even the most severe, you do not need to panic.

Do not self-medicate, even if the drugs were recommended to you by acquaintances whom they helped or you saw their advertisements on TV. Only a doctor can recommend a really effective drug based on your clinical picture. Even if drugs are prescribed by a doctor, they should not be abused or deviated from the prescribed dosage regimen.

Do not take a hot bath, it can lead to increased headache.

Do not take alcoholic beverages – they do not help with headaches, but only serve as a catalyst for the increase in its intensity.

When to call a doctor

• In case the head hurts more often than once a week;
• To relieve a headache, you have to increase the dose of your medications;
• The pain intensifies, the place of its location changes;
• Discomfort in the head is accompanied by an increase in body temperature, general weakness, vomiting, impaired coordination of movements;
• If you strictly adhere to the recommendations prescribed by a specialist, and the pain does not go away;
• Headache that first appeared after 50 years;
• Pressure surges and pain that arose against their background;
• You suspect or know for sure that you are pregnant.

During pregnancy, headaches can be very disturbing for the expectant mother. Its cause is a change in hormonal levels, an increase in blood volume in the body. During this period, you should avoid taking any medications that are not agreed with your doctor. This can harm not only a pregnant woman, but also her baby. Therefore, with any discomfort, including a headache, it is better to immediately consult a doctor.

When to call an emergency medical aid

• Pain that increases when trying to move, coughing, turning the head – may be a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure, swelling.
• Pain that appeared after hitting the head, injury.
• A sudden onset of intense pain that has not happened before.
• Headache against a background of high temperature, which does not go well, as well as intolerance to bright light and strong noise.
• Nausea, flickering before the eyes with pulsating pain in the temples.
• Numbness of the limbs, decreased sensitivity on the background of pain in the head.
• Confusion of speech and thinking, impaired coordination of movements with complaints of headache.
• Headache occurs simultaneously with pain in the region of the heart.

There are a lot of reasons that provoke pain in the head. If you consult a doctor on time, undergo a comprehensive examination, adhere to all appointments, you can avoid repeated attacks or reduce them to a minimum.

A correct sleep schedule, alternation of work and rest, moderate physical activity, walks in the fresh air, proper nutrition will help avoid headaches.

Treatment diagnostics of the causes and symptoms of headaches in Moscow

Headache and its causes

All people have at least once faced the problem of headaches. Often, we postpone the visit to a specialized specialist as long as possible. However, it is important to remember that a headache can be a symptom of a formidable disease, and the earlier the diagnosis is made, the more favorable the prognosis and more effective treatment will be.

The most common causes of headaches are:

• Tension headache – occurs most often due to muscle spasm that occurs against the background of chronic stress, lack of physical activity, a sedentary lifestyle.
• Migraine is a form of headache, manifested by intense attacks (usually one-sided), accompanied by various neurological, autonomic and gastrointestinal manifestations. This type of headache often debuts in childhood and adolescence, with periods of remission and exacerbations.
• Cluster headache – this type of pain is localized in one area (cluster) of the head, has a high intensity, accompanied by lacrimation, rhinorrhea, redness of the eye.
• Vertebral headache – pain caused by osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, with reflex involvement of the muscles of the upper shoulder girdle and neck.
• Isolated neuralgia of individual nerves (facial, trigeminal, occipital), an acute inflammatory disease of the type of inflammation of one nerve, against the background of an infectious process, metabolic disorders, entrapment of a nerve along its path. This type of pain is accompanied by sharp, high-intensity pains lasting a few seconds.
• Headache of vascular origin, often chronic and of moderate intensity. May be due to the peculiarities of the anatomical development of the vessels of the neck and brain.
• Headache due to comorbidity. Quite often, headaches are symptomatic. They can be a sign of cardiological pathology (decompensated hypertension), ENT pathology (otitis media, sinusitis, frontal sinusitis), dental pathology (dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint, inflammatory diseases of the dentition), endocrinological pathology (dyshormonal disorders).
• Unbearable headaches for the first time may be due to the development of a stroke or rupture of an aneurysm of the cerebral vessels. In this case, the patient requires immediate hospitalization.

Headache diagnostics

The main purpose of diagnostics for complaints of headache is to determine its cause. To do this, the doctor collects an anamnesis, finds out the nature of the pain, its frequency and other details, and conducts an examination.

To further diagnose the causes of headaches, the doctor may prescribe:

• MRI / CT of the brain;
• Ultrasound of the vessels of the head of the neck;
• Radiography of the cervical spine;
• EEG;
• 24-hour blood pressure monitoring;
• angiography of cerebral vessels;
• consultations of medical specialists;
• laboratory research.

Headache treatment at FNKTs FMBA

If

• intense headache occurred acutely and for the first time;
• acute headache is accompanied by a rise in body temperature;
• the onset of pain was preceded by a head injury;

seek emergency medical attention immediately!

The main goal of chronic headache therapy is to reduce the intensity and frequency of episodes of its occurrence.For this, various conservative and interventional techniques are used. The key to achieving a stable result is an accurate and targeted diagnosis of the cause of the headache. The best effect is achieved using a multidisciplinary approach, which includes components aimed at correcting the main links of the pathological chain that causes the onset of headache in each case.

Conservative therapy consists in selecting the optimal regimen for taking medications: non-steroidal analgesics, triptans, antidepressants, antispasmodics, antihypertensive drugs, etc.Extended intravenous administration of drugs and oxygen therapy are also used.

If the headache has a localized cause, as in cases of neuralgia, tension headache, vertebral pain, various interventional techniques are used. The drugs injected aimed at the desired point block nerve-impulse transmission from the affected area, relax spasmodic muscles, improve tissue trophism and relieve pain. At the same time, the absence of a systemic effect excludes the side effects of drugs on other organs and systems.

Treatment of headache in a hospital FNKTs FMBA

Headache is one of the most common, painful symptoms that every person has encountered at least once in their life. A headache may indicate a violation of various body systems. Therefore, it is important to timely seek medical help to determine the true cause of the development of this symptom.

Our center provides comprehensive treatment for patients with headache in a hospital setting.

A round-the-clock stay of patients under the supervision of neurologists provides an opportunity for a complex of diagnostic procedures aimed at establishing the cause of the development of headache and its targeted therapy.

In the treatment of headaches, conservative and interventional techniques are used, the treatment is carried out according to international standards.

The patient’s stay in the hospital allows monitoring his condition in dynamics and adjusting the therapy regimens, if necessary.These factors ensure the maximum effectiveness of the treatment being carried out, the patient’s recovery and the consolidation of the result obtained.

Regardless of the severity of the headache, the severity of the pain syndrome, an individual approach and high professionalism of doctors guarantee the achievement of recovery.

HEADACHE: to treat or “let it go by itself”?

There is no person who never, not once in his life would have a headache. Taking painkillers in this case is the fastest and often most effective way to solve this problem.When is the moment when you should stop self-medication and see a doctor?

• If the head hurts 3 times a week or more

• If taking “usual” painkillers no longer brings relief

• In case of acute and intense headache (it hurts as badly as never before in my life)

• If the headache is accompanied by weakness in the arm and / or leg (usually on one side of the body), transient loss of vision, speech, sudden loss of memory (in which a person loses orientation in space for some time and forgets where he is is and what it does).

In such cases, it is necessary to immediately consult a doctor and undergo a serious examination, including an ultrasound examination of large vessels, ECG, EchoCG, a clinical blood test, urine, blood sugar, detailed blood tests to determine a lipid profile, a tendency to thrombus formation, computer or magnetic resonance imaging tomography of the brain.

Headache can be the first symptom of a wide variety of diseases: hypertension, vegetative-vascular dystonia, renal and endocrine pathology, brain tumor, stroke, etc.e. Today 45 diseases are known, accompanied by headache. Timely diagnosis and adequate therapy for these conditions will improve your well-being and maintain your health.

It should be noted that headache is not a painful sensation of the nervous tissue of the brain, since there are no pain receptors in it. It occurs as a result of exposure to sensitive areas located in the head and / or neck: the skull (periosteum), muscles, nerves, arteries and veins, subcutaneous tissue, eyes, sinuses and mucous membranes.The method for treating headache depends on the identified disease or the cause of the symptom.

Historical background

Separate mentions of recurrent headaches, reminiscent of the description of a migraine clinic, appeared more than 5000 years ago. In the XIX-XVI centuries BC, descriptions of headache attacks were also found in Babylonian literature, which was compared to a flash of lightning. For the first time, hemicrania, which is accompanied by vomiting and poor health in general, was described in the Ebers papyrus as “a disease of half of the head.”The first classification of headaches called “De Cephalalgia” was developed by Thomas Willis in 1672. In 1787, Christian Baur divided all headaches into idiopathic (primary) and symptomatic (secondary), and also identified 84 categories of headaches. At the end of the 19th century, in the book “On migraine headaches and other similar diseases” by Edward Living, it was shown the differential difference between migraine and other, similar in clinic, headaches. The clinical symptoms of cluster headache were described by Harris in 1926, but the priority of describing the disease belongs to Ryder (1924).In 1939, Horton also described the clinic for cluster cephalalgia, but unlike Harris, he regarded it as erythromelalgia, and then as histamine cephalalgia. Later, this condition was referred to as Horton’s syndrome. For the first time, Ekbom pointed out the similarity of these conditions in 1947, and since 1952, at the suggestion of Kunkel, the disease is called “cluster cephalalgia”. In 1962, at the National Institute of Diseases of the Nervous System, the Committee on Headache introduced a new definition of headache into practice, and also developed a classification of cephalgia and prosopalgia, which existed for 26 years.In 1988, the International Headache Classification Committee introduced a new classification of head and facial pains, which is still used today. The second version of the classification, published in 2004, has been approved by the World Health Organization.

Classification of headaches

According to the International Classification of Headaches (2nd Edition), all headaches are divided into two large groups: primary (migraine, tension headache, cluster (cluster) headache and other trigeminal autonomic (autonomous) cephalalgias, other primary headaches) and secondary headaches (associated with head and / or neck trauma, vascular lesions, infections, homeostasis disorders, mental illness, etc.)reasons). Cranial neuralgia and unclassified headache are separately identified. There are other classifications of headache. So, according to the mechanism of occurrence, the headache is classified into 6 types: vascular headache, muscle tension headache, liquorodynamic headache, neuralgic headache, mixed headache, psychlgia (central headache). In all this diversity, I would like to dwell on some types of headaches that we encounter most often, namely:

– tension headache;

– migraine;

– cervicogenic headache;

– headache associated with increased blood pressure;

– abusal headache.

Tension headache (TCH) is the most common type of primary headache. Episodic HDN occurs in more than 70% of people; chronic HDN affects 1-3% of adults. HDN often begins in adolescence, mainly among women (there are two men for every three women). The peak incidence occurs at 20-39 years. The mechanism of HDN development is associated with stress or musculoskeletal problems of the neck. Attacks of episodic HDN usually last for several hours, but can last for several days.Chronic HDN can be continuous and interfere with normal functioning much more than episodic HDN. HDN is characterized by: bilateral localization, compressive / pressing character, pain intensity from mild to moderate, headache does not increase from normal physical activity, absence of nausea or vomiting, photophobia or phonophobia may be present. The pain is usually monotonous with minor fluctuations in intensity throughout the day. It is often described by patients as a feeling of pressure, tension or constriction around the head like a “helmet” and is much less often presented in the form of pain itself, sometimes extending to the neck or starting from the neck.In some cases, patients report short episodes of acute, unilateral piercing pain. Often, patients with HDN associate the appearance of painful episodes with stress. The occurrence of episodes of HDN after physical and mental fatigue is just as often noted. Irregular eating and disturbance of sleep and wakefulness are characteristic provoking factors, although factors such as strong odors, smoke, bright light and meteorological factors rarely act as provocateurs of HDN episodes.In the chronic form of HDN, it often occurs at night or in the morning upon awakening. The diagnosis of HDN is based on the analysis of complaints (the nature of the headache) and the history of the disease (the relationship between headache episodes with negative emotions, chronic stress, prolonged postural overstrain). Examination in patients with HDN reveals tension and soreness of the pericranial muscles. Considering the great role of muscular-tonic syndrome in the pathogenesis and chronicity of HDN, the treatment of muscle tension should be one of the most important tasks of HDN therapy.Therefore, along with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants must be included in the treatment regimens for this group of patients. In the presence of emotional and personality disorders, sedatives and antidepressants must be added. In patients with a combination of HDN and migraine, which is often found in clinical practice, it is possible to use triptans. However, in these cases, the patient should be taught to distinguish between episodes of HDN and migraine attacks. In this group of patients, acupuncture, relaxation training, and post-isometric relaxation are effective as preventive measures.

Migraine is manifested by stereotypical attacks of one-sided pulsating headache, which is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, photo- and phonophobia. The duration of a migraine attack varies from 4 to 72 hours. In many cases, seizures occur as a result of exposure to provoking factors, the most common of which are: stress, disturbances in sleep and wakefulness, menstruation, jet lag, food (cheese, chocolate, citrus fruits, eggs, smoked meats, etc.).) and drinks (red wine, beer, coffee). There are two main forms of migraine: migraine without aura and migraine with aura. Migraine without aura occurs in 80% of all migraine cases. Many patients can experience migraine attacks with or without an aura. Quite often there are attacks of “aura without headache”, which, unfortunately, are often not recognized and not diagnosed. Migraine treatment includes two areas: treatment of a migraine attack and prophylactic treatment in the interictal period. Treatment of a migraine attack is divided into: 1) nonspecific – these are simple analgesics – paracetamol; combined analgesics – combinations with caffeine, short-acting barbiturates; non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – aspirin, ibuprofen, indomethacin, diclofenac; drugs for relief of accompanying symptoms; 2) specific therapy is triptans – sumatriptan, zolmitriptan, nonselective agonists of 5-HT1 B / 1B receptors – ergotamine, dihydroergotamine; auxiliary agents – metoclopramide, domperidone; combined drugs – difmeter.Prophylactic drug treatment is prescribed to all patients and is aimed at reducing the frequency of occurrence and severity of headache attacks. When choosing a pharmacological agent, individual characteristics of the patient, characteristics of seizures, and the presence of comorbid disorders are taken into account. For the prevention of migraine attacks I use β-adrenergic receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers, antiepileptic drugs, antidepressants, nootropics, venotonics, riboflavin (vitamin B12), coenzyme Q10, thioctic (α-lipoic) acid.Non-drug treatment methods are effective for migraines: acupuncture, relaxation training, behavioral therapy.

Cervicogenic headache

The prevalence of cervicogenic headache (CBH) among patients with chronic headaches is 15-20%. CHP is observed mainly in middle-aged people, 4 times more common among women and has a significant tendency to chronicity. CGB, as a rule, affects representatives of “sedentary” professions, as well as those who, in the process of work, often have to throw their heads back or work with their heads down.The onset of CHP in most cases is preceded by a prolonged forced position of the neck and head, as well as awkward neck movements associated with overextension or sharp rotation. Other provoking factors are sleep in an uncomfortable position, hypothermia, drafts, stress. Speaking about the mechanism of development of cervicogenic headache, muscular-tonic and vascular components should be distinguished. Damage to the cervical spine leads to impaired outflow along the vertebral venous plexuses and leads to the formation of central venous stasis.Also, irritation of the autonomic plexus of the vertebral arteries plays a significant role in the formation of CHP. CGB is a unilateral headache that spreads from the cervico-occipital region to the anterior parts of the head. The intensity of the CHP is most often moderate, sometimes it can be accompanied by nausea, non-systemic dizziness, flashing of flies before the eyes, cervico-brachial pain. It should be noted that the one-sided nature of the headache is characteristic of the onset of the disease. When amplified, it can spread to the other side, but still dominates on the side of origin.Often, CHP is combined with other types of headache. The main objective sign confirming the cervicogenic nature of headache is musculoskeletal dysfunction in the cervicobrachial region. There is a shortening of the extensors of the neck, the descending portion of the trapezius, scalene muscles, a low level of training of the deep flexors of the neck and interscapular muscles. In chronic CHP, active trigger points are determined in the region of the sternocleidomastoid, scalene, belt, descending portion of the trapezius, levator scapula, subscapularis and supraspinatus muscles, as well as short extensors of the neck (short suboccipital muscles) from the side of the same name.In terms of examination, the doctor will prescribe an X-ray of the cervical spine with functional loads, Doppler ultrasonography of the vessels of the neck. Treatment of CHB includes non-drug and drug-based methods.

Manual therapy

Its main goal is to eliminate functional musculoskeletal disorders that cause cervical headache, and thus prevent its subsequent episodes.

Patients are assigned training system . Its key stage is isometric strengthening of the local muscles of the cervicobrachial region – deep flexors of the neck and interscapular muscles. Postural and ergonomic retraining of the patient involves the exclusion of positions and movements that can lead to overstretching of soft tissue structures and mechanical irritation of the vertebral arteries. According to indications, wearing a Chance collar is recommended. Drug treatment includes the appointment of NSAIDs and central muscle relaxants (tizanidine, baclofen). In the presence of a vascular component, vasoactive drugs (nicergoline, vinpocetine, ginkgo biloba drugs), actovegin, nootropics are added to therapy, and in case of venous insufficiency, venotonic drugs (venosmin, detralex, normoven, venodiol).In the chronic course of CHB, depressive disorders can join; in such cases, antidepressants should be added.

Headache associated with increased blood pressure

With high blood pressure, the headache is dull, pressing, sometimes pulsating in nature with localization (most often) in the occiput. Patients with essential hypertension, as a rule, are already well aware of this character of headache, “feel” that the pressure is increasing.Therapeutic tactics in this situation is as follows: measure blood pressure, when it rises, take antihypertensive drugs (captopril, captopres, fenigidin, bisoprolol). As a rule, an increase in blood pressure is accompanied by emotional arousal, which, in turn, leads to a further increase in blood pressure numbers. Therefore, we recommend taking sedatives (corvaltab, valerian, sedistres, cardiolin). However, sometimes patients do not know and do not associate headache with an increase in blood pressure. They take painkillers, which to some extent alleviate their condition, but do not give a noticeable improvement in well-being, and most importantly, the cause of the headache (high blood pressure) is not eliminated, which in turn can lead to rather serious health complications.High blood pressure, untreated hypertension is the risk of heart attack and stroke. Therefore, when you have a headache, measure your blood pressure. If the blood pressure numbers are more than 140/90 mm Hg, you need to take antihypertensive drugs (drugs that lower the blood pressure numbers) and consult a doctor. The doctor will prescribe the necessary examination plan (ECG, Holter monitoring of ECG and blood pressure, dopplerography of the extracranial vessels of the head and neck, ultrasound of the heart) and the question of the need for regular intake of antihypertensive drugs will be resolved, the drug will be selected and the dose will be selected.There are a lot of antihypertensive drugs, which one you need and in what dose, the doctor must decide. As a rule, prescribing antihypertensive drugs alone is not enough to completely cope with the problem of headache in hypertension. Here you will need a course intake of vascular, nootropic drugs, venotonics, and in some cases antidepressants.

Abuse headache

Uncontrolled intake of analgesics (especially in combination with barbiturates, caffeine, some sedatives) can cause depression of own anti-pain brain centers and lead to the so-called abusus (drug) headache.With frequent headaches, it is important to remember: it is extremely dangerous to take painkillers in large quantities and longer than 15 days a month, and combined analgesics – longer than 10 days. At the same time, there is no specific drug that provokes the development of this disease. The only thing that matters is the duration of use and the dose of the drug. Treating an abusal headache is a difficult task. First of all, it is necessary to completely cancel the medicine, the use of which caused this syndrome.But this should be done carefully and gradually, since abrupt discontinuation of the drug can increase the pain syndrome. Also, depending on the indications, the doctor will prescribe antiemetics, sedatives, antidepressants, and, if necessary, carry out rehydration and detoxification measures. It should be noted that the prevention of the development of abusal headache is facilitated not only by knowledge about the dangers of abuse of painkillers, but also, first of all, by timely diagnosis and adequate treatment of the patient’s pain syndromes.Headache treatment should consist not only of the treatment of a headache attack, but also of preventive treatment courses, lifestyle modifications, nutrition, moderate physical exertion. It is this approach that will allow you to cope with the problem of headaches, gain health and well-being.

The publication was prepared by a neuropathologist, Candidate of Medical Sciences – Nelly Borisovna Balkova.