Lutheran Church of the Resurrection

Welcoming, Caring, Nurturing

Headache Awareness

This article about Headaches was written by Marla Lichtsinn, RN, MPA, CIC, FCN, Parish Nurse. The full text is available at the eNewsletter site at www.wheatridge.org.

Here are some information about common types of headaches, how they differ, what might cause them, what to do about them, and – better yet! – how to prevent them…

?         The Hangover Headache: alcohol causes dilation and irritation of the blood vessels in the brain and surrounding tissue; symptoms may be very severe with throbbing pain and nausea; take liquids including broth and fluids containing fructose (honey and tomato juice are good sources) to help “burn off” the alcohol… and next time, drink in moderation!

?         Caffeine-withdrawal headaches: generally or short duration caused by dilation of the blood vessels, sometimes occurring several days after large consumption of caffeine; again, moderation is the rule – in extreme cases, avoiding all caffeine may be required to prevent recurrences.

?         Hunger headaches: pain strikes just before mealtime; caused by muscle tension, low blood sugar, dilation of blood vessels, oversleeping and missing a meal; also precipitated by extreme dieting; eat regular, balanced meals containing adequate protein and complex (not refined) carbo-hydrates.

?         TMJ headaches: caused by temporo-mandibular joint misalignment (“poor bite”), stress, jaw clenching; a muscle-contraction type of pain, sometimes accom-panied by a painful “clicking” sound when opening the jaw; try relaxation methods such as bio-feedback; use a bite plate (least expensive but very effective are the ones that athletes use – get one at your local sporting goods store); in extreme cases, surgical correction of the malocclusion of the upper and lower teeth may be necessary – discuss this with your dentist!

?        Arthritis headaches: pain at the back of the head or neck; intensifies with movement; caused by inflammation of the blood vessels or bony changes in the vertebrae of the neck; anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants often offer relief.

?        Eyestrain headaches: usually in the front of the head, with pain on both sides, directly related to eye strain; uncorrected vision problems and astigmatism may

contribute; have your eyes tested on a regular basis (every two years is recommended) and use corrective lenses when necessary.

?        Tension-type headaches: often dull, non-throbbing pain, on both sides of the head, associated with a tight feeling in the scalp or neck; emotional stress or depression can precipitate them; get rest, try aspirin, acetaminophen, ice packs, muscle relaxants; antidepressants, biofeedback or psychotherapy may be required. Avoid them by avoiding stress… try relaxation methods like yoga!

?        Sinus/allergy headaches: generalized headaches with nasal congestion, watery eyes; pressure may be so severe as to cause earaches and toothaches! If due to a sinus infection, antibiotic therapy is needed; often, over-the-counter decongestants will relieve these temporary symptoms.

?        Hypertension/aneurysm headaches: generalized “head-band” pain, often most severe in the morning; caused by severe untreated hypertension which may cause any weakened areas of the blood vessels (aneurysm) to “balloon” and rupture (sudden severe headache, double vision, rigid neck, loss of consciousness); to prevent these, keep blood pressure under control; surgery may be recommended for aneurysm

?        Migraine headaches with or without aura: severe, often one-sided pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances; “aura” is experienced by about 15% of people who suffer migraines: before the migraine headache strikes, they may see wavy or jagged lines, dots or flashing lights; may include visual or auditory hallucinations, or disruptions in smell (strange odors), taste or touch. Certain foods, medications, excessive hunger, changes in altitude or weather, lights, excessive smoking and emotional stress may play a role in this hereditary condition; try ice packs, medications prescribed by your doctor, including steroids for prolonged attacks; biofeedback, calcium blockers and anti-inflammatory drugs may prevent or treat symptoms.

If you suffer from headaches, you’re not alone! Avoid those factors that “trigger” your headaches; talk to your doctor if they persist or get worse, and learn as much as you can in order to control them so they don’t control you!  

1950 Nagel Road, Cincinnati, OH  45255

513-474-4938

www.lcresurrection.org