Life presents headaches in many forms, both personal and physical. Some consider the maintenance of a vehicle a “headache.” Others may say organizing events are a “headache.” Realistically, any experience could be labeled a headache. However, if heads throb and become painful…. It is time to get serious.
Many headache forms exist… tension, cluster, sinus, and worst of all, migraine. When suffering a headache, Seniors and all ages need to determine causes, types, and treatment. Listed below are four typical genres of headaches.
- Tension headaches feel as if a band around the head is tightening. They are usually triggered by emotional stress, over activity or dehydration. A healthy lifestyle helps prevent the discomfort of tension headaches. The typical length of pain is three hours and could be unpredictable as well as sporadic. Over the counter drugs may be used to treat symptoms but if headaches do not disappear after two to three days it is time to call a doctor.
- Cluster headaches occur suddenly, presenting intense pain, generally around the eye. Causes vary and may include smoking, over exertion, bright lights, or foods containing nitrates such as bacon and lunch meat. Cluster headaches are more common in males and tend to reoccur in the same area each time. Physicians will diagnose and prescribe the best treatment.
- Sinus headaches are brought on by allergies or sinus infections. A buildup of pressure causes pain behind the cheekbones, nose bridge, and forehead. As a rule, nasal sprays and decongestants will relieve the symptoms. After three or more days however, it is time to call a physician.
- Migraine headaches are the most intense of headaches and are a true neurological condition. Symptoms accompanying intense throbbing are nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and/or sound. Sufferers sometimes will be forewarned with an aura, a visual disturbance with flashes of light or blind spots. Migraine headaches are so painful the sufferer may miss work, be bedridden, or hospitalized. If untreated this type of headache could last as long as 72 hours. Stress, overconsumption of alcohol, hormonal changes, and certain medications all are triggers of migraines. If you suffer from migraines, it is important to be under a doctor’s care.
Bridge to Better Living offers answers to the headaches of searching for a new Senior Lifestyle. When you or a loved one begin to consider the search for the best Independent, Assisted, Memory Assisted, or Long-Term Care contact Bridge to Better Living . Talk to the experts and avoid the headaches. Take care of yourself and let Bridge to Better Living take care of YOU!