What do different headache locations indicate. How can you identify the type of headache based on its location. What are the most effective treatments for various types of headaches. How can you prevent headaches from recurring.

Understanding Headache Locations and Their Significance

Headaches are a common ailment that can affect various parts of the head, each location potentially indicating a different type or cause. By understanding the relationship between headache location and its meaning, individuals can better identify and manage their symptoms. Let’s explore the most common headache locations and what they might signify.

Common Headache Locations

• Across the forehead
• Behind the eyes or on either side of the nose
• On one side of the head
• In the back of the head at the base of the skull

Forehead Pain: Tension Headaches and Their Triggers

Do you feel a band-like pressure squeezing your forehead? This sensation is often associated with tension headaches, the most prevalent type of headache. Tension headaches occur when muscles in the face, neck, or shoulders become tense. Various factors can trigger these headaches:

• Prolonged periods in a single position (e.g., working on a computer)
• Physical or emotional stress
• Excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine, or tobacco
• Withdrawal from these substances

To alleviate tension headaches, consider the following remedies:

1. Over-the-counter pain medications (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
2. Massage therapy
3. Practicing yoga
4. Gentle neck exercises
5. Taking a hot shower or relaxing in a hot tub

Eye Pain and Nasal Discomfort: Eye Strain and Sinus Issues

Headache pain around the eyes or on either side of the nose can have various causes. Eye strain is a common culprit, often resulting from:

• Uncorrected vision or astigmatism
• Prolonged visual tasks or concentration
• Poor posture

To reduce eye strain headaches, try these tips:

1. Practice good posture when sitting at a desk
2. Take regular breaks from visually demanding tasks
3. Use an anti-glare filter screen for your computer
4. Consult an ophthalmologist or optometrist for possible vision correction

Ocular Migraines and Sinus Headaches

Ocular or retinal migraines cause brief attacks of visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or blind spots in one eye. These episodes typically last less than 20 minutes. Relief options include:

• OTC pain medications
• Resting your eyes
• Taking breaks from screens
• Avoiding bright sunlight or harsh lights

Sinus headaches occur when the sinus cavities become inflamed and congested. Signs of a sinus infection may include:

• Thick yellow or green nasal drainage
• Postnasal drip
• Cough
• Possible fever

Most sinus infections are viral and resolve on their own. To manage symptoms:

1. Use OTC pain relievers
2. Rinse your nose and sinuses with saline solution using a neti pot
3. Try nasal decongestants or antihistamines

Unilateral Headaches: Migraines and Cluster Headaches

Pain on one side of the head can indicate specific types of headaches, such as migraines or cluster headaches. Cluster headaches are characterized by:

• Intense pain around one eye or on one side of the head
• Drooping eyelid
• Tearing
• Congestion on the affected side

Temple headaches can also occur on one or both sides of the head, presenting as a sharp, searing pain that may persist for several days. While not life-threatening, these headaches can significantly impact daily life and work performance.

Occipital Headaches: Understanding Pain at the Base of the Skull

Occipital headaches, characterized by pain at the base of the skull, occur when nerves in the upper back and neck become irritated and inflamed. This pain can be sharp and burning or manifest in short bursts. It may also be associated with migraine headaches.

To alleviate occipital headache symptoms:

1. Apply ice or heat to reduce pain and stiffness
2. Stretch neck, shoulder, and back muscles to improve strength
3. Avoid prolonged sitting in one position
4. Implement stress reduction techniques

Cervicogenic Headaches: When Neck Issues Cause Head Pain

Cervicogenic headaches originate from neck and cervical spine problems. They can be triggered by:

• Injury to the neck
• Arthritis
• Compression of the spine
• Herniated discs
• Concussions

These headaches often result in reduced neck range of motion. Treatment options may include physical therapy or nerve blocks.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Headaches

While most headaches can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if your headache:

• Comes on suddenly and is extremely painful
• Is associated with a blow to the head
• Is accompanied by confusion or balance issues
• Causes weakness or numbness
• Is accompanied by fever or seizures
• Presents with a stiff neck

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Changes for Headache Management

Preventing headaches often involves making lifestyle changes and identifying triggers. Consider implementing the following strategies to reduce the frequency and severity of headaches:

1. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
2. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
3. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises
4. Engage in regular physical activity
5. Limit consumption of known triggers like alcohol, caffeine, or certain foods
6. Improve posture and ergonomics in your work environment
7. Take regular breaks during prolonged screen time or visually demanding tasks
8. Keep a headache diary to identify patterns and triggers

Advanced Treatment Options for Chronic Headaches

For individuals suffering from chronic or severe headaches that do not respond to conventional treatments, several advanced options may be considered:

Botox Injections

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections have shown efficacy in treating chronic migraines. How do Botox injections work for headaches? The toxin is injected into specific areas around the head and neck, helping to relax muscles and block pain signals. This treatment is typically administered every 12 weeks and may significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.

Neurostimulation Devices

Neurostimulation devices use electrical or magnetic pulses to target specific nerves associated with headaches. These devices include:

• Transcutaneous supraorbital nerve stimulation (t-SNS)
• Single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS)
• Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)

These non-invasive treatments can be particularly helpful for individuals who cannot tolerate or do not respond well to medications.

Biofeedback and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Biofeedback techniques help individuals learn to control certain bodily processes that may contribute to headaches. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on changing thought patterns and behaviors associated with headaches. Both approaches can be effective in managing chronic headaches, especially when combined with other treatment modalities.

Acupuncture and Alternative Therapies

Some individuals find relief through alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal supplements, or chiropractic care. While scientific evidence for these treatments varies, they may provide benefits for certain types of headaches. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any alternative therapies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific condition.

The Role of Diet in Headache Management

Diet can play a significant role in triggering or preventing headaches. Certain foods and drinks are known to be common headache triggers for many individuals. These may include:

• Aged cheeses
• Processed meats containing nitrates
• Foods with MSG (monosodium glutamate)
• Artificial sweeteners
• Chocolate
• Red wine and other alcoholic beverages

On the other hand, maintaining a balanced diet rich in certain nutrients may help prevent headaches. Consider incorporating the following into your diet:

1. Magnesium-rich foods (e.g., dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds)
2. Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds)
3. Riboflavin (vitamin B2) sources (e.g., eggs, dairy products, lean meats)
4. Coenzyme Q10-rich foods (organ meats, fatty fish, whole grains)

How can you identify your personal dietary triggers? Keeping a food diary alongside your headache journal can help you recognize patterns between what you eat and drink and the occurrence of headaches. This information can be valuable in developing a personalized dietary plan to manage your headaches effectively.

The Impact of Hormones on Headaches

Hormonal changes can significantly influence the frequency and severity of headaches, particularly in women. Understanding the relationship between hormones and headaches can help in developing targeted management strategies.

Menstrual Migraines

Many women experience migraines that are closely linked to their menstrual cycle. These headaches typically occur before or during menstruation and are thought to be triggered by the drop in estrogen levels. What are some ways to manage menstrual migraines?

• Hormonal birth control methods to stabilize estrogen levels
• Preventive medication taken before and during menstruation
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce other potential triggers during this time

Pregnancy and Headaches

Pregnancy can affect headache patterns in various ways. Some women experience a reduction in migraines during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. However, others may notice an increase in headache frequency or severity. Managing headaches during pregnancy requires careful consideration of medication safety. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as relaxation techniques and lifestyle modifications, are often recommended first.

Menopause and Headaches

The hormonal fluctuations associated with perimenopause and menopause can impact headache patterns. Some women may experience an increase in headaches during this time, while others may find relief from previously troublesome headaches. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a double-edged sword – it may help some women with headaches but exacerbate symptoms in others.

Working closely with a healthcare provider to monitor hormonal changes and adjust treatment plans accordingly can be crucial in managing headaches effectively during various life stages.

The Connection Between Sleep and Headaches

Sleep patterns play a crucial role in headache occurrence and management. Both too little and too much sleep can trigger headaches in susceptible individuals. Understanding this relationship can help in developing strategies to improve sleep quality and reduce headache frequency.

Sleep Disorders and Headaches

Certain sleep disorders are closely associated with headaches. For example:

• Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep can increase the likelihood of headaches
• Sleep apnea: This condition, characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, is linked to morning headaches
• Restless leg syndrome: Often co-occurs with migraines and can disrupt sleep quality

How can you improve sleep to reduce headaches? Consider these sleep hygiene tips:

1. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends
2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine
3. Ensure your sleeping environment is dark, quiet, and cool
4. Limit screen time before bed
5. Avoid caffeine and large meals close to bedtime
6. Exercise regularly, but not too close to bedtime

If sleep problems persist and contribute to headaches, consulting a sleep specialist may be beneficial. They can help identify and treat underlying sleep disorders, potentially leading to significant improvements in headache management.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Headaches

The field of headache research is continuously evolving, with new insights and potential treatments emerging regularly. Stay informed about these developments to access the most up-to-date treatment options.

CGRP Antagonists

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonists represent a breakthrough in migraine treatment. These medications specifically target the CGRP pathway, which is involved in pain transmission during migraines. Both preventive and acute treatments using this mechanism are now available, offering new hope for individuals with difficult-to-treat migraines.

Neuromodulation Techniques

Advancements in neuromodulation technologies continue to provide non-pharmacological options for headache treatment. These include:

• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for migraine with aura
• Occipital nerve stimulation for chronic migraines and cluster headaches
• Sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation for cluster headaches

Precision Medicine Approaches

The future of headache treatment may lie in personalized medicine approaches. Researchers are investigating genetic markers and biomarkers that could predict an individual’s response to specific treatments. This could lead to more targeted and effective treatment plans, reducing the trial-and-error process often associated with headache management.

As research progresses, new treatment options and management strategies will continue to emerge. Staying in contact with healthcare providers and headache specialists can ensure access to the most current and effective treatments for your specific headache type and symptoms.

Headache locations and what they mean

Are you experiencing frequent headaches?

Headaches are common in the following areas:

• Across the forehead
• Behind the eyes or on either side of your nose
• On one side of the head
• In the back of the head at the base of the skull

Forehead pain

Does your headache pain feel like a band squeezing your forehead? Most likely, you are experiencing the most common type of headache, a tension headache. This type of headache occurs when muscles become tense in your face, neck or shoulders. It can be triggered by holding your head in a single position for long periods, such as working on a computer or projects requiring fine work with your hands. It can also mean that you are under a lot of physical or emotional stress, using too much alcohol, caffeine or tobacco, or having withdrawals from limiting them. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can relieve tension headaches. Other stress relievers include massage, practicing yoga, exercising your neck gently, taking a hot shower or relaxing in a hot tub.

Eye pain or pain on either side of your nose

Headache pain around the eyes may be caused by eye strain from uncorrected vision or astigmatism, an imperfection in your eye that may cause blurriness. It can also be from stress, completing visual tasks or concentrating for long durations of time, or bad posture. Tips to reduce straining your eyes include practicing good posture when sitting at a desk, taking breaks from tasks that are visually demanding and using an anti-glare filter screen for your computer. See an ophthalmologist or optometrist if the eye strain headaches continue, as you may need glasses or contacts, or an update to your existing prescription.

An ocular or retinal migraine causes brief attacks of visual problems, such as flashes of light, zig zag lines or blind spots in the field of vision in one eye. They usually don’t last longer than 20 minutes. Relief options are OTC pain medications, resting your eyes, taking a break from screens and getting out of bright sunlight or harsh lights. Usually, the symptoms do not last long if you take away what triggers them. However, if they persist, see a provider. 

A sinus headache occurs when the sinus cavities, located in your forehead, inside your cheekbones and behind your nose, become inflamed and congested. Signs you may have a sinus infection are thick yellow or green drainage from the nose, postnasal drip or a cough. Sinus infections may or may not be accompanied by a fever. Sinus infections can be caused by bacteria or viruses, but most are viral, so antibiotics usually will not help. Generally, sinus infections resolve on their own. Using OTC pain relievers and rinsing your nose and sinuses with salt water several times a day with a neti pot can make you feel better. Nasal decongestants or antihistamines can help reduce congestion.

Pain on one side of the head

In addition to ocular migraines causing pain on one side of your head, cluster headache symptoms also involve pain on one side of your head or around one eye, often accompanied by  a drooping eyelid, tearing and congestion on the same side of the head.

A temple headache can occur on one or both sides of the head, and it can be a sharp, searing pain that continues for several days. The headaches are not life-threatening but may be painful enough to interfere with life and work.

Back of the skull pain

An occipital headache, or pain at the base of the skull, occurs when nerves in your upper back and neck radiating into the scalp are irritated and inflamed. The pain can be sharp and burning or happen in short bursts and may be associated with a migraine headache. You may also reduce symptoms by applying ice or heat to reduce pain and stiffness. Other treatments include stretching your neck, shoulder and back muscles to make them stronger, avoiding sitting in one position too long and taking steps to reduce stress.

Another headache in the back of the neck and head is cervicogenic headaches. They can be triggered by injury or wear and tear to the neck and cervical spine due to arthritis, compression of the spine, herniated discs between vertebrae or a concussion. The neck’s range of motion will likely be reduced. Several interventions that may help are physical therapy or nerve blocks.

Most headaches can be effectively managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Consult a healthcare provider if your headache comes on suddenly and is very painful, is associated with a blow to the head, is associated with confusion or balance issues, weakness or numbness, fever or seizures, or a stiff neck.

Clinically reviewed and updated by Nancy Kupka, PhD, RN, May 2022.

Sources:

1. https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/understanding-ocular-migraine/
2. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/pathophysiology-clinical-manifestations-and-diagnosis-of-migraine-in-adults
3.  https://medlineplus. gov/ency/article/000786.htm 
4. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000797.htm
5. https://mayoclinichealthsystem.org/locations/eau-claire/services-and-treatments/neurology/headaches
6. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/acute-sinusitis-and-rhinosinusitis-in-adults-clinical-manifestations-and-diagnosis?search=sinus%20headache&source=search_result&selectedTitle=3~87&usage_type=default&display_rank=3
7.  https://www.uptodate.com/contents/cervicogenic-headache?search=Cervicogenic%20Headaches&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~10&usage_type=default&display_rank=1
8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24784123/
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507725/
10. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/ocular-migraine?sso=y

Headache Locations Meaning | Types of Headaches

What does the location of your headache mean? A headache in the front of your head may be caused by something different than a pain in your temples, in the back of your head, or right in the middle of your head. This article will explain headache locations and areas and what they tell you.

According to the National Headache Foundation, over 45 million Americans suffer from headaches and of these, 28 million suffer from migraines.

What Do Your Headache Locations Mean?

There are several types of headaches; in fact, according to the National Headache Foundation, there are 150 different types of headaches. Looking at this headache chart and the content below, you can generally determine what type of headache you have depending on where exactly the pain is:

The most common headaches are migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches. They can be the result of illness, injury, or a problem elsewhere in the body. They can also occur from stress and emotional tension, overexertion, or even dietary issues.

Headaches can be anything from harmless to dangerous. Here’s how to tell:

READ: Tension Headache 101

Headache Locations Meaning

Headache in the Front of your Head

• Tension headache
• Migraine
• Eye strain
• COVID headache
• Sinus headache
• Dehydration headache

Temples (side of your head)

• Tension headaches
• Ice-pick headache
• Cervicogenic headache

Back of your Head

• Cervicogenic headache
• Tension headache
• Dehydration headache

Middle/Top

• Tension-type headache
• Ice pick headache
• Cough headache
• Exertion headache
• Coital (intercourse) headache

One Side

• Migraines
• Cluster headaches

RELATED: Dangerous Headaches To Watch Out For

Types of Headaches and Locations

Cervicogenic headaches, one of the most common headache causes in the back of head. These headaches stem from the joints at the top of the neck.

Cluster headaches, which affect more men than women, are recurring headaches that occur in groups or cycles. They appear suddenly and are characterized by severe, debilitating pain on one side of the head, and are often accompanied by a watery eye and nasal congestion or a runny nose on the same side of the face.

COVID headache locations are something everyone is paying attention to nowadays due to the coronavirus. In some patients, the severe headache of COVID-19 only lasts a few days, while in others, it can last up to months. It is mostly felt around your whole head, with a severe-pressure type of pain. It’s different than migraine, which by definition is unilateral throbbing with sensitivity to light, sound, or nausea. This is more of a whole-head pressure presentation.

Coital headaches, also known as “sexual headaches,” occur at the base of the skull before orgasm during sexual activity. These headaches usually have an immediate onset, with some gradually worsening during sexual intercourse. They typically last for a few minutes to a few hours.

RELATED: Is Your Sex Life Giving You a Headache?

Dehydration headaches may occur at the front or back or just on one side of the head, or they may be felt throughout the entire head. Bending the head down or moving it from side to side often worsens the headache. Simply walking can cause more head pain.

Exertion headaches occur during or after sustained, strenuous exercise. Activities associated with exercise headaches include running, rowing, tennis, swimming and weightlifting.

Ice-pick headaches will often cause repeated sharp pains in the temples.

Migraines tend to cause one-sided pain, throbbing pain, moderate-to-severe pain, and pain that interferes with, is worsened by, or prohibits routine activity. Additionally, nausea and/or vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound can accompany pain.

Sinus headaches are associated with a deep and constant pain in the cheekbones, forehead, or bridge of the nose. The pain usually intensifies with sudden head movement or straining. The pain is usually accompanied by other sinus symptoms, such as nasal discharge, the feeling of fullness in the ears, fever, and facial swelling.

READ: How To Treat Sinus Headaches

Tension headaches, the most common type of headache, feels like

The Latest In Headaches & Migraines

Types of headache. Types, localization and what pain in the head means.

Types of headache. Types, localization and what pain in the head means.

Gimranov Rinat Fazylzhanovich
Neurologist, neurophysiologist, experience – 33 years;
Professor of Neurology, MD;
Clinic for Rehabilitation Neurology. About the Author

Publication date: November 7, 2020

Updated: January 31, 2023

Headache is a common problem that almost everyone has experienced. This is one of the most common reasons for visiting a doctor when compared with other symptoms and complaints.

Headache attacks may be the first symptoms of a dangerous pathology. A professional examination helps to identify the disease in the early stages. Or to exclude a serious trouble [1].

There are people who try to cope with this problem on their own by taking painkillers (analgesics). And they turn for help when the attacks become frequent or are not removed by the usual medicines. Such patients sometimes find out that they have lost precious time.

Therefore, you need to know all types of headaches and the causes of their occurrence in order to protect yourself from the possible consequences of inaction, or not to worry about situations that are easy to handle on your own. Moreover, the types of headaches and the causes of occurrence can be determined not only by the description, but also by examining the diagrams in the pictures, in the photo.

Article content:

• 1 Types of pain in the head
  • 1.1 Cluster cephalgia
  • 1.2 Tension headache
  • 1.3 Migraine
  • 1.4 Post-traumatic syndrome
• 2 Other headaches
• 3 Symptoms of severe cephalalgia
• 4 Prevention

9002 6 5 References

Types of pain in the head

Feelings of cephalalgia change due to factors provoking its development. Doctors have developed a classification that describes most of the cases.

There are a number of common types of headaches, localized in certain places and areas of the head, depending on the cause that provoked them, which is marked in the picture as hatched spots.

Cluster cephalgia

Protracted debilitating attacks that can last for days with short breaks, then subside for a while. This type of disease is typical for men of mature age.

Cluster pain has the following features:

1. Always one-sided localization, without catching another part.
2. Seizures can start at any age.
3. It is often a hereditary chronic disease.
4. Painful sensations are extremely strong, often pulsating at the beginning of an attack.
5. Concentrates in the area of ​​the eyes and temples, without spreading over the entire skull.
6. Periodically accompanied by redness of the eyes, possible lacrimation, nasal congestion on the affected side.

Pain often occurs in the form of neuralgia (for example, trigeminal nerve). It is combined with autonomic regulation disorders, which is why lacrimation, skin redness, and increased skin sensitivity appear [2].

Tension headache

A common type of symptom familiar to almost everyone.

An attack is provoked by physical, psychological or mental overexertion. Often becomes a companion and manifestation of regular, chronic stress.

With a general similarity in intensity to migraine, changes in pain syndrome from exposure to light and sounds are not recorded.

Typical symptoms:

1. Feelings are light, not strong, but monotonous. There is no pulsation or sharp, paroxysmal character.
2. Physical movements, hard work of the mind do not intensify unpleasant sensations, do not change their character.
3. If the cause is physical fatigue, additional numbness of the muscles of the neck and shoulder girdle is felt.

These seizures do not interfere with work, carry out the necessary social functions, although labor productivity is reduced.

Migraine

Severe chronic disease, more typical for women. Although, men also suffer from her attacks.

Pain syndrome of moderate or severe intensity, sometimes pulsating, always localized in a specific part of the head (there is an epicenter). Although localization can be noted in different parts of the skull due to the nature of the course of the disease.

The onset of an attack causes a personal trigger that is specific to the individual. It can be a strong psychological fatigue, some kind of smell or bright light, a sharp sound.

There are diagrams of types of migraine headache in different parts of the head in pictures, depending on the causes that led to the onset of the disease.

A characteristic feature is complete social helplessness due to the acute perception of light and sounds. A person loses the ability to think clearly during seizures, the quality of his life worsens [3].

Post-traumatic syndrome

Develops immediately after a traumatic brain injury or some time after it. It is felt as a constant discomfort, in the head, a dull, aching form is common.

Without treatment, problems can continue for months and progress to post-traumatic epilepsy. While, after examination by a doctor and prescribing the necessary drugs, the symptoms disappear after a week.

Other types of headaches

There are also situations when unpleasant sensations in the head with varying localization and intensity are caused by external factors affecting the body or a third-party illness.

In this case, pain in the head is not considered the main process, it is considered as one of the manifested symptoms of another pathology. Sometimes, as a dangerous symptom.

Pain can signal:

1. Serious intoxication of the body, for example, after drinking alcohol or drugs.
2. A side effect of taking medications.
3. Inflammatory and infectious diseases of the respiratory organs (sinusitis), nasopharynx.
4. Violation of venous outflow from the brain.
5. Manifestation of developed problems in the cervical spine.
6. Cardiovascular diseases.
7. Benign and malignant tumors of the brain, its membranes.
8. Infectious lesions of the cortex and substance of the brain.
9. Vegetovascular dystonia.

Only an experienced doctor can determine the cause of recurring seizures after a thorough examination. You should also contact the clinic if the nature of your usual, long-familiar sensations has changed, the cause of which you know.

Symptoms of dangerous cephalgia

Suspect that a person has a dangerous health condition requiring immediate hospitalization will be helped by additional symptoms characteristic of serious illnesses:

1. Cephalgia appears suddenly, like a blow to the head and immediately becomes extremely strong, almost unbearable . May increase progressively. Where in the head such sensations arose does not matter.

1. The temperature rises to a fever, above 38 degrees.
2. There is a change in consciousness, a person ceases to adequately perceive the world around him.
3. Loss of consciousness a short time after the onset of the attack.
4. The appearance of previously uncharacteristic convulsions throughout the body.
5. Cephalgia aggravated after minor injuries, active physical activities, with sudden movements of the head.

1. There is a feeling of severe stiffness in the neck, the inability to move it freely.
2. With the appearance of cephalalgia, vision is sharply reduced, severe weakness appears, inability to perform any physical action. Part of the body, skin, begins to go numb, not felt when touched [4].
3. Increased frequency of attacks of head cephalalgia, increase in the intensity of pain.

A doctor can determine how to recognize a headache syndrome in a particular place, understand the name of a manifested disease or pathology. And then – after diagnostics using professional equipment.

Attempts to self-diagnose and start treatment with folk home remedies are fraught with the danger of aggravating the situation.

Prevention

To prevent some of the causes that cause headaches in different areas of the head and understand in advance what they mean, you need to practice preventive measures.

To stay healthy:

• Eat right. You can not drive yourself to starvation or eat too much food. Both extremes lead to the development of a whole group of diseases. You should also avoid eating a large amount of sweets, fatty and fried foods, flour products. Avoid high-calorie foods in the evening before bed.

• Keep a regular sleep schedule. Going to sleep and waking up should be at the same time, preferably not too late. The norm of sleep for a healthy person, allowing you to fully relax – 7-9 hours. Sleeping too much is just as bad as not getting enough sleep.

• Organize daily physical activity, especially important for sedentary work. Daily walks in the fresh air, feasible sports improve shape, train the regulatory mechanisms of the body. At the same time, they strengthen muscles, normalize their tone and relieve muscle spasms. Thus, they prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases, problems with the cervical spine.

• Give up bad habits. Any addiction causes harm to mental and physical health, increases the chance of developing pathology. Refusal of alcohol, smoking, abuse of sweets and excessive use of gadgets will help maintain health for a long time.

• Stabilize your mental state. Constant stress, depression, depression is one of the common causes of recurrent headaches of various types. The use of drugs based on natural sedatives, as well as the elimination of reasons for being nervous from life, will significantly strengthen the immune system.

You need to understand: if there are cases of cephalalgia, you need to find out what the name of the disease is when the head hurts in one area or another, in the office of an experienced doctor. Since it can be a symptom of a serious pathology.

References

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Pain in the temple area – the causes of occurrence, in what diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment

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Pain in the temple area: causes of occurrence, in which diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment.

definitions e

Pain in the temple area is one of the most common complaints that brings patients to the doctor.

In the bone structures of the skull and brain tissues, pain sensitivity is negligible, so the main sources of pain are blood vessels, meninges and cranial nerves.

Varieties of pain in the temple area

According to the International Headache Classification 3 (2013), all headaches are subdivided:

• into primary pain not associated with diseases of the brain and other structures of the head and neck;
• secondary pain associated with other diseases;
• painful cranial neuropathies, other facial and headaches.

Possible causes of pain in the temple area

Arterial hypertension is one of the most common causes of headaches in the neck and temples. With an increase in pressure, headache attacks occur, which may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, “flies” before the eyes.

Tension headache is one of the most common reasons for visiting a neurologist and therapist. Patients characterize it as compressive, pressing.

Tension headache impairs the quality of life and performance, despite the fact that it is considered benign and does not carry serious consequences.

Migraine is the most common form of paroxysmal headache.

Migraine is characterized by localization of pain in the temporo-fronto-orbital region and the paroxysmal nature of the course.

If the pain is not paroxysmal, then it is not a migraine. Attacks can be both on one side of the head, and on both, and also change their localization (right-left).

An attack of headache can occur at any time of the day, more often during a night’s sleep in the morning or after waking up. The pain is pulsating, bursting in nature, with a gradual increase in intensity over several hours. Before the onset of an attack, the so-called aura is possible (harbingers of pain, they are individual, but are often described as impaired vision, speech, dizziness). The pain is aggravated by bright light, from loud noises and other stimuli, up to a change in the position of the head. The attack can last up to several days.

Garris’ periodic migraine neuralgia – characterized by sudden onset of pain in the eye area on one side and spreading to the temporal, frontal and zygomatic regions, and sometimes even to the neck.

Unlike migraine, there are no signs of pain.

The pain is burning, cutting, bursting, accompanied by redness of the eye and tearing from the painful side. Some patients experience a sensation of “eye bulging out of the orbit”. All these attacks are characterized by a certain seasonality or periodicity. The duration of the attack is from 6-8 weeks to 3 months.

Pain in the temple area may occur immediately after drinking cold water or ice cream due to spasm of the arteries. In this case, the pain is bursting, squeezing, sometimes throbbing.

Cold pain occurs in individuals with increased sensitivity to cold stimuli and with high reactivity of the body.

“Sausage” headache (in English-speaking authors – hot dogs headache ) occurs when eating foods containing food additives such as sodium nitrate. During a chemical reaction in the body, nitrate is converted to nitrite, which has a vasomotor effect (controlling the contraction and relaxation of the muscle membrane of the walls of blood vessels, and therefore the lumen of blood vessels), and sensitive people may feel pain in the frontotemporal region.

A similar effect is sometimes seen in Chinese cuisine (“Chinese restaurant headache”), where monosodium glutamate is often used.

Giant cell arteritis is the world’s most common systemic vasculitis affecting large vessels. The favorite localization of this disease is the temporal artery. Most often, the pain is intense, accompanied by a limitation of the function of the corresponding temporomandibular joint, visual impairment with a gradual decrease in it, a thickened artery in the temple area is determined.

Without treatment, it can lead to permanent blindness of the eye on the side of the lesion.

In inflammatory diseases of the ear , pain in the temporal and parotid region is possible, which is accompanied by fever, redness, swelling in the ear, purulent discharge from the ear.
Meningitis develops when an infectious agent enters the membranes of the brain, followed by an inflammatory process.

The headache is sudden, sharp, diffuse, predominates in the frontotemporal areas, sometimes accompanied by vomiting.

Neuralgia of the auricular-temporal nerve often occurs after an inflammatory process or traumatic injury to the parotid gland. It is characterized by burning, throbbing pain in the external auditory canal, temple, temporomandibular joint, radiating to the lower jaw. The pain is accompanied by increased salivation, redness of the skin over the affected area. Seizures are provoked by food and smoking.

Neuralgia of the ear node is manifested by bouts of burning pain in the temporal region lasting from several minutes to an hour. May be accompanied by ear congestion and increased salivation.

Altitude sickness changes the tone of the arteries due to reduced oxygen pressure and changes in barometric pressure. Headache is accompanied by shortness of breath, palpitations, blurred vision.

The severity of symptoms depends on the rate of ascent to altitude.

The pain is relieved by applying cold to the temples and drinking cool water.

Traumatic injury to the temporal region can cause pain. This includes a wide group of pathologies: fracture of the temporal bone, dislocation of the temporomandibular joint, soft tissue contusion.

Subarachnoid hemorrhage occurs for various reasons, for example, as a result of a rupture of an aneurysm of cerebral vessels, a person feels like a strong blow to the head, hot liquid spills in the head, strong constriction, and then bursting. Pain may initially be localized in the corresponding section of the head – in the temporal region when an aneurysm of the internal carotid artery ruptures.

Damage to the temporomandibular joint (both inflammatory – arthritis, and non-inflammatory – arthrosis, malocclusion) may be accompanied by pain in the parotid and temporal region. When moving the lower jaw, a crunch and clicking in the joint may occur, the pain intensifies when chewing and during a conversation.

Which doctors should I contact if I have pain in my temples?

With the appearance of intense and recurring pain in the temples, you should seek the advice of a specialist.

If pain persists after taking painkillers or other symptomatic treatment previously prescribed by a doctor (for example, to lower blood pressure), and there are no signs of injury, then you should contact
therapist or
pediatrician. Depending on the accompanying symptoms, you may need to consult a neurologist, rheumatologist, otolaryngologist, ophthalmologist. In case of a previous injury, it is necessary to consult a traumatologist or
surgeon to rule out severe injury.

Diagnostics and examinations for pain in the temples

The list of examinations is prescribed by the doctor depending on the indications. Approximate list of examinations that can be assigned:

• computed tomography of the head;

CT scan of the brain and skull

Scanning of the brain, skull and surrounding tissues, which allows diagnosing various pathologies.

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MRI of the brain and cervical spine

Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine and brain for diagnosis and selection of the optimal treatment option.

RUB 10,890

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X-ray of the temporomandibular joints

An X-ray examination to assess the structure of the temporomandibular joint and identify comorbidities.

RUB 2,290

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Electroencephalography (EEG)

EEG is a safe and painless method for studying the functional state of the brain.

RUB 3,090

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C-reactive protein (CRP)

C-reactive protein – acute phase protein, a sensitive indicator of tissue damage during inflammation, necrosis, trauma.
Synonyms: Blood test for CRP; C-jet …

Up to 1 working day

Available with house call

665 RUB

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Clinical blood test: general analysis, leukogram, ESR (with microscopy of a blood smear in the presence of pathological changes)

Synonyms: Complete blood count, KLA. Full blood count, FBC, Complete blood count (CBC) with differential white blood cell count (CBC with diff), Hemogram.
Brief description of the study CBC: general a…

Up to 1 working day

Available with house call

RUB 810

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Hemostasiogram (coagulogram), screening

Synonyms: Hemostasiogram, coagulogram.
Coagulation studies (coagulation profile, coag panel, coagulogram).
Profile Composition:
No. 2 Prothrombin (prothrombin time, prothrombin (according to Quick), INR …

Up to 1 working day

Available with house call

RUB 1,620

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What to do about pain in the temples?

First of all, it is necessary to provide the patient with peace and fresh air, dim bright lighting, turn off loud music.

As a first aid, you can apply a cold compress to the temporal region – a towel soaked in cold water or ice previously wrapped in a cloth.

If you have had similar pains before and the doctor prescribed drugs, you should take them.

Treatment of pain in the temple area

The choice of treatment depends on the cause of the pain.

Of the medical methods of therapy, anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs are used, however, independent long-term treatment with them without medical supervision is not recommended.

Depending on the pathology, specific types of treatment are used for this disease. So, with arterial hypertension, the doctor will prescribe drugs that reduce blood pressure. In giant cell arteritis, glucocorticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapy are used. In inflammatory diseases of the ear, antibiotic therapy is carried out. Injuries often require surgery and treatment in a hospital setting.

Sources:

1. Healy P. M., Jacobson E.J. Differential diagnosis of internal diseases: Algorithmic approach. Per from English. – M.: Binom, 2014. 280 p.
2. www.ihs-headache.org
3. Clinical guidelines “Migraine”. Developed by: All-Russian Society of Neurologists, Russian Society for the Study of Headache. – 2021.
4. Headache. – 2nd ed., revised. and additional – M.: Medical Information Agency, 2007. 472 p.
5. International recommendations. Clinical pharmacology and therapy. Recommendations for the treatment of giant cell arteritis of the French group for the study of vasculitis of large vessels / I.O. Smitienko, P.I. Novikov, A.D. Meshkov, S.V. Moiseev. – Moscow, 2017, 26 (5). pp. 57–64.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.