Have you ever woken up with a terrible headache, or while in the middle of work, feel throbbing pain at the base of your skull? Most of us experience headaches of some kind throughout our lives, and unfortunately, some people get them more frequently than others. If you are constantly plagued by headaches, or if you only get the occasional one, read on to learn about the different kind of headaches and how you can get rid of them quickly.
Migraines
If you’ve never experienced a migraine, count yourself lucky. These intense headaches can range from being a debilitating pulse or throb to being sensitive to light and sound, both of which can cause severe nausea.
The pain is usually localized to one side of the head, often starting in the area around the eye or temple. They can also last up to 72 hours. Most people who suffer from migraines have a family history of them, but they can be triggered by irregular sleep, bright lights, excessive noise, stress, and foods like chocolate, wine, and cheese. To treat migraines, keep a log of when they occur and try to pinpoint your triggers. Over-the-counter pain relievers exist specifically for migraines, and prescription medications are always an option if you need a stronger form of relief. Some migraine sufferers also use acupuncture, massage, and biofeedback to control their migraines.
Tension Headache
These are very common headaches, and are characterized by a dull, squeezing pain on both sides of the head. Luckily, they only last about 20 minutes for most people. Tension headaches are triggered by stress and fatigue, but can also be brought on by
squinting, bright sunlight, noise, or excessive heat or cold. To alleviate a tension headache, try relaxation techniques, a healthy diet, and getting more sleep. Most over-the-counter pain relievers will help get rid of tension headaches.
Dehydration Headache
If you don’t drink enough water, you could be at risk of getting dehydration headache. These headaches can occur on any part of the head, and any kind of movement, including walking, moving the head, or bending at the neck can make it worse.
When you are dehydrated, blood vessels in the head may narrow to save the fluid you have in your system. This makes it more difficult for oxygen and blood to reach the brain. The treatment for this kind of headache is so easy: drink more water. To ensure that you don’t get dehydrated in the future, make sure your urine is pale yellow, or the color of straw. If it’s hot outside or you will be sweating a lot, make sure to stay hydrated.
Neighbors Emergency Center offers 24 hour care, 365 days a year, and our board certified emergency physicians can treat all medical emergencies. We know you’re time is important, so we will treat you quickly and effectively so you can get back to doing what you love. Our emergency centers are located in the Houston area. If you are looking for a quality emergency room with little to no wait time, come to Neighbors Emergency Center.