A headache is a pain in the head, face, or upper neck. They are most often caused by the blood vessels in the head, the temporomandibular joint, upper cervical issues, and muscles in the neck. They can vary in intensity, frequency, and location. The National Headache Foundation estimates that more than 36 million Americans suffer from regular headaches.
Headaches can be a symptom of a larger health problem or a primary health problem. Primary headaches are not symptoms of an underlying health concern and are often caused by inflammation in the neck and head.
Secondary headaches are symptoms of other health problems. Certain abnormalities such as tumors, meningitis, aneurysm, and injury may be the root cause.
Cluster – A series of headaches that occur over a period of time. Pain is described as a burning or throbbing sensation behind the eyes. Some people are prone to them at certain times of the year, causing them to be mistaken for allergies or stress. While they usually do not last long, they can be more severe than migraines.
Hypnic – Hypnic headaches occur at night and are most common in people over forty years old. They usually occur at the same time each night and are not affected by most medications.
Migraine – Migraine is a genetic condition and is one of the most common types of headaches. Migraines usually cause pain on one side of the head and can last up to seventy-two hours. Nausea and/or vomiting can accompany migraines as well as sensitivity to light and sound.
Tension – Tension headaches are pressure-like pains that feel like a tight band around the head. Pain is usually felt near the back of the head and neck. They can cause migraines and even cohabit with them. Effective treatments for them include upper cervical adjustment, physical therapy, percussion therapy, and relaxation therapy.
