Pain Control Network - Louisville, KY - Causes and Cures for Headaches

headache pain ..

When Your Head Hurts

Aching pain and pressure in your head. We all know that feeling. If you get a headache once in a while, you're in good company. A head ache is one of the most common health complaints of all ages. And no matter how often you get one, your first concern is finding relief. Since most headaches respond well to self-care, the suggestions in this brochure are likely to help. Start by using the checklist to identify the type of headache you usually get (and yes, it is possible to get both tension and migraine headaches).

Despite the pain, headaches are rarely linked with a serious health problem. However, before you begin self-treating, read the back panel to find out when to call the doctor. If none of the signs or symptoms match your situation, go ahead and use self-care.

Your self-care goal is to relieve the pain and find ways to avoid whatever "triggers" your headaches. Most of these tips will help relieve symptoms for both tension and migraine headaches. If you have migraines, you may also need prescription medication to relieve the pain.

Relax Tense Muscles

•	Calm your emotions by imagining a peaceful scene.
•	Massage tight neck, shoulder, and head muscles.
•	Apply pressure to the base of the skull behind your ears.

Use Heat and Cold

•	Place a cool cloth on your forehead.
•	Place an ice pack on the back of your neck.
•	Soak in a hot bath.
•	Open blocked sinuses with steam from a hot shower.

Try Over-the-Counter Medications

Aspirin or aspirin substitutes, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can relieve pain. Remember: Never give aspirin to anyone 18 or younger.

Track Your Headaches

If you get headaches often, try keeping a headache diary in your appointment book or calendar. This record can help you and your doctor identify what's causing your headaches.

•	Note when each headache occurs.
•	Identify your activities and the foods you've eaten 6-8 hours before the headache began.
•	Look for any trends or "triggers," then find ways to avoid them.

Identify Your Headache

Headaches - they can sure keep you from enjoying your life. But what kind of headaches do you get? Knowing this can help you decide on the best treatment. Check the symptoms below. If you have tension headaches, self-care will usually relieve them. If you have migraines, ask your doctor for advice.

Is It a Tension Headache?

	The pain feels like a tight band around your head.
	You have pain in your neck or shoulders, as well as your head.
	You clench your jaws or grind your teeth.
	You get the headache after an activity like driving or working on a computer.
	You can continue your daily activities, despite the headache.

Is It a Migraine?

	You have pounding pain in your head.
	The pain starts and stays on one side of your head.
	You see bright spots or flashes before the pain starts.
	You also have nausea or vomiting.
	You have headaches at the same time each week or month, after specific events, or after eating certain foods.
	The pain is so severe, you can't continue your daily activities.

When to Call Your Doctor

Most headaches aren't serious and can be relieved with self-care. But sometimes headaches may be a sign of another health problem like eye trouble or high blood pressure. Call your doctor's office if your headaches occur often or if you have any of these signs or symptoms:

	You have a headache that lingers after a recent injury or bump to the head.
	You have a fever with a stiff neck or pain when you bend your head toward your chest.
	You have a headache along with slurred speech, changes in your vision, or numbness or weakness in your arms or legs.
	The headache lasts longer than 3 days.
	You have headaches often, especially in the morning.

Pain Control Network PSC
6400 Dutchmans Parkway
Springs Medical Center, Suite 60
Louisville, KY 40205
502-897-3500 Fax: 502-897-3755
E-mail: Info@paincontrolnetwork.com

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