The main cause of headaches is tension headache, but there are other causes, such as migraine or lack of sleep, for example. Although many headaches improve naturally over time, you should know the signs and symptoms they cause.
In general, most headaches don’t pose a serious illness, but if they’re severe and persistent, it’s important to see a neurologist.
Learn the main causes of constant headaches
Tension headaches are the main cause of headaches. This type of pain occurs when the person feels more anxious or stressed, being very common in the day to day, but not disabling, that is, being able to maintain the usual activities. In addition, tension headaches are also characterized by:
However, the frequency can vary greatly, occurring less than once a month or for more than 15 days.
What to do: In some cases, tension headache improves after taking medications or relaxing. If tension headaches do not improve or last longer than 15 days, it may be necessary to seek the help of a neurologist to recommend treatment with appropriate pain relievers. See more details on how to treat tension headaches.
Migraine is another cause of a headache, although it can also appear on one side of the head or back of the neck. Migraines can cause severe stabbing pain and are common in people with genetic predisposition and stress. In addition, you may experience symptoms such as nausea, cold hands; Sensitivity to light and sound.
Migraines can be felt on the right or left side of the head, but are more common on the left side, they are very uncomfortable and disabling. Learn more about migraine symptoms.
What to do: Maintaining a regular exercise routine can improve blood circulation and relieve pain. In addition, practicing meditation and yoga can help you relax and control the onset of seizures. If there is no improvement with these alternatives, it is important to consult a neurologist for preventive medication treatment and immediate relief, such as pain relievers.
Cold-stimulated headaches usually occur after drinking something cold very quickly and are known to “freeze the brain,” being severe pain near the top of the head that lasts a few seconds.
What to do: To avoid cold headaches, simply consume very cold drinks more slowly or consume drinks at a natural temperature.
Little sleep headaches can affect anyone, even those who are not predisposed. Poor sleep quality, due to insufficiency or disruption, often causes severe pain similar to weight or pressure in the head. Also, not sleeping is harmful to health and worsens memory.
What to do: Sleeping more, reducing stress and maintaining good posture, even when sitting, can prevent many types of headaches. The recommendation is to sleep 6 to 8 hours a night and invest in a dark, quiet and comfortable place to sleep, plus an ergonomic chair if you are sitting at a table to work.
Discover 10 tips for getting a good night’s sleep
Occipital neuralgia occurs when nerves moving from the spine to the scalp are damaged, irritated, or pinched, which can cause pain in the back of the head or strain on the top of the head.
Other features that can help recognize occipital neuralgia may include pain that resembles electric shock and pain that increases with movement.
What to do: Applying hot compresses, massages and physiotherapy can relieve symptoms. If the pain persists, it may be essential to consult a neurologist, as anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant medications may be prescribed. In addition, this doctor may prescribe antiepileptic medications for preventive purposes. To better understand the treatment of neuralgia.