Headache

Headaches are one of the most common health complaints, varying in intensity and duration. They can be categorized as primary headaches (tension headaches, migraines, cluster headaches) or secondary headaches, caused by underlying medical conditions.

Causes

• Primary Headaches: Often triggered by stress, muscle tension, dehydration, lack of sleep, hunger, or sensory overstimulation (e.g., bright lights or loud noises). Migraines may have genetic and hormonal influences, while cluster headaches are linked to irregularities in the hypothalamus.
• Secondary Headaches: Caused by infections (sinusitis, meningitis), trauma, high blood pressure, medication overuse, or systemic illnesses like fever or tumors.

Symptoms

• Tension Headaches: Dull, aching pain, tightness around the forehead, temples, or back of the head and neck.
• Migraines: Throbbing pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances (aura).
• Cluster Headaches: Severe, sharp pain around one eye or temple, often with redness, tearing, nasal congestion, or drooping eyelid.
• Secondary Headaches: Symptoms vary based on the underlying condition and may include fever, stiff neck, confusion, or visual disturbances.

Treatment

• Lifestyle Modifications: Stay hydrated, maintain a regular sleep schedule, reduce stress, and avoid known triggers.
• Medications: Tension Headaches: OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol.
  Migraines: Triptans, NSAIDs, anti-nausea drugs, and preventive medications like beta-blockers or anticonvulsants.
  Cluster Headaches: Oxygen therapy, triptan injections, and preventive treatments like verapamil.
• Secondary Headaches: Treat the underlying cause (e.g., antibiotics for sinusitis, blood pressure control).