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Tension headaches are the most common type of
headache. Pain is caused by a tightening of the muscles of the neck,
face, or scalp, usually triggered by emotional stress (worry, anxiety,
depression) or physical stress (sitting in a stuffy room or working too
long in the same position). The pain often feels like a band of dull,
steady pressure around the head. Most tension headaches respond to
aspirin or other over-the-counter analgesics, but some can last all day,
and recur frequently. Prevention for most people
lies in avoiding-or changing-the stressful life situations that trigger
headaches.
Vascular headaches are caused by changes in the diameter of blood
vessels that supply the brain and scalp. The most common type of
vascular headache is the migraine headache-sharp, throbbing pain often
on one side of the head and often associated with nausea. Migraines
affect more women than men and tend to run in families.
Cluster headaches affect more men than women, do not seem to run in
families, and are rare. Characterized by a piercing pain in one eye or
on one side of the face, cluster headaches may occur a few times a day
for weeks or months, and then disappear. They often start in the middle
of the night, waking the sufferer up. Though painful, cluster headaches
are not signs of a more serious problem and they do respond to drug
therapy.
Other common headaches are caused by excessive caffeine or alcohol
consumption; certain foods, food additives, and drugs. Most headaches
are not a sign of a serious underlying problem. However, if a headache
is accompanied by visual loss, vomiting, confusion or loss of memory,
numbness in some part of the body, lack of coordination and slurred
speech, or high fever and a stiff neck, seek medical attention right
away.
Source: Reader's Digest: The Good Health Fact Book
Disclaimer: All the information on this page is strictly
provided for informational purposes to better educate yourself only. It is
not meant to substitute for the advice of your own physician or other
medical professional. Do not use the information contained herein for
diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any
medication.
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