Although headaches are usually quite common and, in most cases, they disappear without major difficulties, they could also be warning signs that something in our body is not right.
Although you may not have known it, brain tissue does not itself have pain-sensitive nerves. What we perceive as a “headache” is generated when pain-sensitive nerve endings react to certain triggers such as stress, and send messages through a nerve to the thalamus, which in turn sends messages to regions of the brain that control pain awareness and response.
types of headaches
Headaches can be divided into two large groups: on the one hand, the primary ones, which occur independently of any other illness, for example those that arise from stress, from spending many hours in front of the computer, or even some types of migraines.
And, on the other hand, the secondary ones that, although at first glance seem simple, are linked to other health disorders that cause the pain-sensitive nerve endings to be stretched or compressed out of place. This is the case of infectious diseases (such as the flu or sinusitis), cervical injuries, high blood pressure, nervous disorders, stroke, among others.
In addition, headaches can also vary in frequency and intensity of pain; and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea or sensitivity to noise and light.
In this note you will find some types of (primary) headaches so that you can learn to recognize some of their possible causes.
headache
Headaches seem to come out of nowhere and cause a very strong pain, usually on one side of the head. It feels very intense around the central area of the head and a pressure on the eye.
According to research, the hypothalamus (the area of the brain that regulates the autonomic nervous system and hormones, sleep, libido, breathing, and other body processes) is activated when pain occurs, stimulating a pathway along the base of the brain, causing pain in the eyes. Also, the blood vessels on the surface of the brain become inflamed, causing the sensation of tightness.
Migraine
They are generated by inflammation of the blood vessels and arteries that surround the brain. The pain is stabbing and intense, and may be accompanied by nausea, increased blood pressure, and increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli such as light, noise, or smells.
Its exact cause is not known; and can last for several hours or even days.
tensional
This type of headache varies in intensity and frequency, but it is usually one of the most common, since it is related to the tensions caused by stress, anxiety or other emotional problems. May be accompanied by sensitivity to light, stiff neck and shoulders.
It usually starts at the nape of the neck and spreads forward. It is usually not very intense.
eyestrain
The television, the computer or bad lighting can harm your eyesight and that can cause headaches.
“in cluster”
Sudden, painful headaches that occur in “clusters” (continuous episodes followed by a pain-free phase), affect one side of the head, often around or behind one eye, and may be preceded by migraine and nausea. The nose and eye on the affected side of the face may become red, swollen, or watery.Some people will experience restlessness and agitation, changes in heart rate and blood pressure, and sensitivity to light, sound, or smells.
Cluster headaches occur more often at night than during the day.
When is it necessary to go to the doctor?
When you feel:
• Sudden severe headache, accompanied by stiff neck.
• Severe headache accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting.
• Headache accompanied by confusion, weakness, double vision, or loss of consciousness.
• Headache after injury.
• Headache and loss of sensation or weakness in any part of the body.
• Headache associated with shortness of breath.
How to relieve it?
Beyond these tips, it is advisable to go to the doctor or trusted professional; and do not self-medicate in the face of any symptoms.
Important: It should be clarified that The Bioguide does not give medical advice or prescribe the use of techniques as a form of treatment for physical or mental problems without the advice of a doctor, either directly or indirectly. In the case of applying any information on this site for this purpose, La Bioguía does not assume responsibility for these acts. The site is intended only to provide information of a general nature to aid in the pursuit of personal growth and development.