Nothing is more pain in the a** than pain on the head. Yes, headaches can really be bothersome and debilitating. The timing is always off too – we have them when we least expect it. Luckily for us, we know exactly how to treat a nasty headache. However, there is always a need to know which one you are currently suffering from so that you can properly manage it. Which is which? There are actually many types and here we have the most common ones:
Tension Headache
Most headaches fall under this category and a lot of people experience this on a daily basis. People who have the tension type of headache describe the pain as a “cap-like” tightness over the head that can radiate to the nape and shoulders. These headaches are usually mild to moderate in intensity and are easily treated with over-the-counter pain killers.
Cluster Headache
Cluster headaches involves pain localized in the eye region or one side of the head and it ranges from moderate to severe in intensity. They occur one to three times per day during a cluster period, which may last from two weeks to three months. Treatment of cluster headaches include bed rest and anti-seizure medications, to name a few.
Migraine Headache
Although you hear the term migraine a lot, it’s not as common as tension headache. Migraine headaches, however, are more severe. Patients who experience it report a feeling of pounding or throbbing on one side or both sides of the head. They can last for 4 to 72 hours, with associated symptoms of hypersensitivity to light and sound exposure. Migraine headaches are also treated using anti-seizure medications.
TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, is a painful condition which affects the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. It can be caused by overuse or misuse of muscles in the face and neck. Patients who experience this disorder may also have headaches as the pain usually radiates to the temples too. There is usually a history of excessive yawning and chewing, as well as poor posture and grinding of teeth.
Temporal Arteritis
Headaches coupled with scalp tenderness and jaw pain should raise the suspicion of Temporal Arteritis. Seek medical attention if you start experiencing these symptoms as the condition may eventually lead to stroke or blindness. Temporal arteritis involves an inflammation of the lining of your arteries in the temples and is therefore treated with steroids.
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