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Headaches and Migraines

The most common type of headaches are tension headaches. These headaches can be short-lived or last several days. If you have more than 15 headache days a month, you may have chronic tension headaches. Tension headaches are thought to be caused by muscle tightness and spasm in the neck; although, chemical changes and/or deficits in the brain could play a role.

Some patients suffer from both chronic tension headaches and migraines.

Migraines are characterized by a throbbing pain on one side of the head, both sides of the head. There may be associated photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, and vomiting; different patients have different symptoms.

Diagnosis is made from evaluating medical history and symptoms. Radiographic testing may also be ordered. Your physician may prescribed a daily prophylactic medication to prevent headaches and/or migraines,abortive therapy to stop the acute symptoms of a migraine and encourage life style changes such as removing headache/migraine triggers, stress-relieving activities, and regular exercise.

Resources

American Academy of Neurology

Website: www.aan.com

American Council for Headache Education

Website: www.achenet.org

National Headache Foundation

Website: www.headaches.org