A headache is a condition of pain in the head sometimes neck or upper back pain may also be interpreted as a headache. Headache, like chest pain or dizziness , has many causes. In some cases, these painful headaches are preceded or accompanied by a sensory warning sign (aura), such as flashes of light, blind spots or tingling in your arm or leg. Migraine headaches are usually characterized by severe pain on one or both sides of the head, an upset stomach, and, at times, disturbed vision. Women are more likely than men to have migraine headaches. Other kinds of vascular headaches include "cluster” headaches, which cause repeated episodes of intense pain, and headaches resulting from high blood pressure. A migraine headache is also often accompanied by other signs and symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Traction and inflammatory headaches are symptoms of other disorders, ranging from stroke to sinus infection. Although there's still no cure, medications can help reduce the frequency of migraine headaches and stop the pain once it has started. The right medicines combined with self-help remedies and changes in lifestyle may make a tremendous difference for you.

There are four types of headache: vascular, muscle contraction (tension), traction, and inflammatory. Headache involves the network of nerve fibers in the tissues, muscles, and blood vessels located in the head and at the base of the skull. The pounding or pulsing pain usually begins in the forehead, the side of the head or around the eyes. When the headache occurs in conjunction with a head injury the cause is usually quite evident; however, many causes are more unclear. After migraine, the most common type of vascular headache is the toxic headache produced by fever. Some experience headaches when dehydrated , or suffering from caffeine withdrawal symptoms. Some people see a pattern of lines or shadows in front of their eyes as the headache is beginning. Treatment of uncomplicated headache is usually symptomatic with over-the-counter painkillers such as aspirin , paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen , although some specific forms of headaches (e.g. migraine ) may demand other, more suitable treatment, usually triptans.

Causes of Headache

The common Causes of Headache :

High blood pressure.
Strain on eyes.
Allergy.
Mental stress and strain.
Presence of toxins in the body.
Migraine can be hereditary.
Excessive smoking and alcohol may cause cluster headaches.
Low blood sugar.

Symptoms of Headache

Some Symptoms of Headache :

Vomiting without nausea.
Sudden onset of pain and the "worst headache" ever.
A child that is awakened by the pain of a headache.
Pain that is worsened by strain, such as a cough or a sneeze.
A very young child with a headache.
Headaches that start very early in the morning.
Weakness in the arms or legs.
Changes in vision .
Personality changes.
Seizures or epilepsy .

Treatment of Headache

Acetaminophen , such as Tylenol, or ibuprofen , such as Advil, are often given to treat pain.
Exercise regularly.
Anti-nausea drugs such as metoclopramide (Maxolon), prochlorperazine (Stemetil) and domperidone (Motilium).
Stress management.
Diet changes.
Rest in a quiet, dark environment.
Medications, as recommended by your child's physician.
Avoid known triggers, such as certain foods and beverages, lack of sleep, and fasting.

Bowel & Stomach Diseases

Appendicitis
Barett's Oesophagus
Coeliac Disease
Crohn's Disease

Heart Problems

Angina
Aortic Aneurysm
Aortic Regurgitation
Aortic Stenosis
Arrhythmias
Atrial Fibrillation

Infectious Diseases

Bacterial Vaginosis
Bird Flu
Boils
Cellulitis
Chicken Pox
Cystitis

Skin Disorders

Acne
Alopecia Areata
Baldness

Women Diseases

Abnormal Periods
Atropic Vaginitis
Breast Cancer
Breast Pain
Cervical Cancer

Liver & Kidney Diseases

Cholecystitis
Cirrhosis
Fatty Liver Disease
Kidney Cancer
Liver Cancer

Mental Health

Anorexia Nervosa
Bipolar Affective Disorder
Bulimia Nervosa
Dementia
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Schizophrenia

Disclaimer : All information on www.family-health-guide.org is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, please consult your doctor.