1. Nerve Irritation Causes Headaches
A headache is a pain response to what's occurring in the body. Headaches result when muscles tighten due to stress, illness or injury, causing blood vessels to swell or constrict, which irritate nerve endings located in the head. The brain doesn't have pain sensors; rather, the nerves get irritated and send the message to your brain, triggering headache pain. The pain associated with headaches is typically described as a throbbing or pounding.
2. Stressing Out
Stress headaches are the most common and occur as the body reacts to too much stress. Generally, stress headaches happen when you feel pressured to accomplish too much: deadlines at work, unrealistic expectations and lack of sleep can all contribute. Stress headaches are also caused by lack of movement that might occur if you sit at a computer for hours. Sitting still too long stresses the muscle groups in the body that work to hold one position for long periods of time. If you're suffering from a tension headache at work, get up from your desk and take a walk.
3. Migraines are Ingrained
Migraines headaches are usually genetic, and women suffer from them more than men. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Common triggers are chocolate, caffeine and alcohol. Other triggers might be dehydration, sudden noises, bright flashing lights and changes in the weather. Migraine symptoms, severity and triggers vary from person to person. Determine the treatment that's right for you by keeping a detailed migraine diary to help your doctor tailor a plan to your particular needs.
4. What a Relief
The fastest cure for a headache is an over-the-counter pain reliever, which typically provides some relief. However, taking too many non-prescription pain relievers too often can result in rebound headaches, which are typically worse than the headache you started with. Many physicians believe that the real headache relief comes from drinking the water you use to swallow pain relievers, as most people are somewhat dehydrated on a regular basis. If you're suffering constant or recurring headaches, make sure you're taking in enough water and food.
5. Get Treatment for Severe Headaches
Call your doctor if your headaches don't go away or become more severe. There are treatment plans to help you live with constant headaches and migraines. Your doctor can help reduce the number of headaches you suffer by showing you how to avoid your triggers and by prescribing medication. If you have a new and intense headache, a headache and high fever, or a headache with slurred speech or difficulty in moving, seek immediate medical attention. The headache itself could be a symptom of something more severe, like a stroke.
