We have all encountered the discomfort of a headache at some point in our lives. Headaches can occur for a variety of reasons, including depression, stress, migraines, high blood pressure, anxiety, physical exertion, and more. However, it is crucial to identify the specific type of headache in order to receive the appropriate treatment. When someone has a headache, they may feel discomfort or pain on their forehead, beneath the scalp, and even behind their eyes. It is said that about 52% of people are affected by headache issues across the globe, with 14% of them confirmed as migraine cases.
Headache conditions are typically benign and will usually resolve on their own. However, in certain instances, a headache can indicate more serious underlying health concerns. In this article, we will delve into the various types of headaches and explore them in depth:
Common causes of headache
Headaches can be quite uncomfortable and can cause significant pain. Typically, headaches can be attributed to two main factors:
Main factors
Primary headaches usually occur due to tension or migraine problems. Such headaches do not indicate any underlying disease. Usually, it happens due to disruption in sleeping patterns and stress factors. Primary headaches can also arise from excessive activity and issues affecting the structure of the head and neck.
Headache is a very common health complaint, yet a challenging clinical problem. Headache is just a clinical presentation that could be an indicator of minor ailments or some serious intracranial disease. Some common health conditions where headache is the major symptom are Migraine, Sinusitis, Cervical spondylosis, stress, Refractive errors, severe dehydration, high blood pressure or increased intracranial pressure or glaucoma. That’s why, headaches should be assessed properly according to location, character, aggravating and relieving factors of pain.
At Ashtanga Ayurveda, we provide different treatment methodologies like therapies, medication, and diet plan to treat various types of headaches so that he/she can lead a painless and stress-free life
Types of Headaches
- Migraine: A severe headache that can cause throbbing pain or a pulsating sensation, usually on one side of the head. It can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation of the lining of the sinuses, which are cavities around the nose and cheekbones. Symptoms can include facial pain and pressure, congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip.
- Cervical spondylosis: A type of arthritis that affects the joints and discs in the neck. It can cause pain, stiffness, and numbness in the neck, shoulders, and arms.
- Stress: A feeling of emotional or physical tension. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including work, relationships, and finances. Symptoms of stress can include anxiety, fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping.
- Refractive errors: A common vision problem that causes difficulty focusing light onto the retina, resulting in blurred vision. There are three main types of refractive errors: nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
- Glaucoma: A group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss and blindness. There are several different types of glaucoma, but the most common type is primary open-angle glaucoma.
Treatment for headache
Taking enough rest and pain relief medications can help in headache treatment. A few other headache treatment include:
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a holistic approach to treating headaches. Here’s how Ayurveda tackles those throbbing pains:
Dietary Adjustments:
- Balance the Doshas: Ayurveda identifies three mind-body types (doshas) – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha can be prone to specific types of headaches. An Ayurvedic practitioner will recommend a customized diet to balance your dosha and reduce headaches.
- Reduce Inflammatory Foods: Spicy, acidic, and processed foods can aggravate headaches according to Ayurveda. Opt for easily digestible meals rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Lifestyle Practices:
- Manage Stress: Stress is a major trigger for headaches in Ayurveda. Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help promote relaxation and reduce stress-induced headaches.
- Adequate Sleep: Lack of sleep disrupts your body’s natural rhythm and can contribute to headaches. Aim for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night.
- Rest and Relaxation: Overexertion can trigger headaches. Taking regular breaks throughout the day and incorporating relaxation techniques into your routine can be beneficial.
Ayurvedic Therapies:
- Shirodhara: This therapeutic technique involves pouring warm, medicated oil in a steady stream on the forehead. It promotes relaxation, improves circulation, and can alleviate headaches.
- Nasya: This involves administering herbal oils or powders through the nasal passage. It helps clear congested sinuses, which can contribute to headaches.
- Abhyanga: This is a warm oil massage that promotes relaxation and improves circulation. It can be helpful for tension headaches.
- Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic practitioners may recommend specific herbs based on your dosha and headache type. Ginger, for its anti-inflammatory properties, and Ashwagandha, known for its stress-relieving effects, are some common options.
Remember: Consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner is recommended for a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and dosha.
When should you see a doctor?
In most cases, headaches are temporary and resolve without intervention. But if you are experiencing a headache quite frequently, thrice or more than that in a month, it’s high time you seek medical assistance.
Also, if frequent headaches cause depression and stress and impact your quality of life, you should consider visiting a doctor to get preventive treatment.
