A 2022 study reveals that around 52% of the world’s population experiences a headache at some point every year. Of those, around 14% experience migraines, 26% experience tension-type headaches, and 4.6% experience headaches for at least 15 days per month. Out of the 12 studies that were looked at, it was found that 15.8% of the world’s population gets headaches on any given day, and half of those are reported migraines.
Given these statistics, it’s unsurprising that headaches are one of the most common reasons people see a doctor. There are many different types of headaches, each with its symptoms and causes. But most headaches are generally caused by muscle tension, stress, dehydration, or underlying health conditions.
There are many different ways to treat headaches, and the best treatment depends on its cause. For example, massage and relaxation techniques may be helpful if a headache is caused by muscle tension. If a headache is caused by dehydration, drinking plenty of fluids is the best action. Suppose a headache is caused by an underlying health condition. In that case, treating that condition will usually help to relieve the headache.
Here are common headaches and how to treat them:
Migraine Headache
This type of headache is characterized by a throbbing sensation and is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Migraine headaches can be very debilitating, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. Treatment for migraines may include over-the-counter or prescription medications. But if your migraines happen often, you might need further medical help. You can find specialists who can create a neurological disorder treatment plan for you that can help manage your migraine and provide relief.
Ice Pick Headache
Ice pick headaches can be a little scary because of how sudden and intense the pain can be. They usually occur without warning and would feel like someone is stabbing you in the head with an ice pick. They don’t last long, but the pain can be severe. This type of headache is commonly dealt with using preventative measures such as taking daily medications to ward off head pain and melatonin to reduce migraine frequency.
Thunderclap Headache
A thunderclap headache can signify a severe condition, and it’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience one. The pain can be so severe that it’s debilitating, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. A thunderclap headache can be a sign of a severe condition, and it’s important to seek further medical attention if you are diagnosed with this headache. If the headache is not associated with an underlying condition, medication will suffice to treat the headache. However, thunderclap headaches can sometimes require surgery to repair torn blood vessels. The treatment will depend on the severity of the headache.
Tension Headache
The most common type is tension headaches. They’re often caused by stress, whether it is physical or emotional. Other causes include alcohol use, caffeine withdrawal, colds or the flu, eye strain, and fatigue. It is usually characterized by mild to moderate pain and feels like something tight is around your head. Tension headaches can be treated with over-the-counter medications and managed by leading a healthy lifestyle such as exercising, getting enough sleep, and managing stress. If your tension headaches become severe or happen often, you may need to see a doctor for further medical help.
Cluster Headache
This type of headache involves a sharp, piercing pain that is usually focused on a certain spot of your head. They can be treated with medication, which can help shorten and lessen the number of attacks. In addition, medications can also reduce the number of cluster headaches you have. There is no cure for cluster headaches, but the treatments can help to manage the condition.
Hemicrania Continua
Hemicrania continua is a headache disorder that can cause constant pain in one side of the face and head. While the cause of hemicrania continua is unknown, the pain can be mild to severe. For some people, it can be continuous for weeks or even months. If you are experiencing hemicrania continua, see a doctor. They will be able to help you figure out the cause and prescribe medication to help reduce the pain. Indomethacin is the standard treatment for hemicrania continua, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works to reduce inflammation.
Headaches can be a common ailment, and for some people, they can be quite severe. Suppose you are experiencing any type of headache. In that case, it is important to see a doctor so that you can get the appropriate treatment.
