Headache Treatment in Delhi , India

Overview

Headache is a common medical condition characterized by pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck region. It is one of the most frequently experienced symptoms among people.

Chronic Daily Headache

Chronic daily headache (CDH) is defined as a headache occurring for 15 or more days a month for at least three months. CDH presents a significant challenge in headache management. Recent studies indicate that nearly 5% of the population suffers from daily headaches. While most persistent headaches are due to primary headache syndromes, some may have severe or life-threatening causes. Headache is the most common complaint leading patients to neurologists.

Types of Headaches

Headaches can be classified based on their characteristics and underlying causes. Common types include:

Tension Headaches: The most common type, characterized by a dull, constant ache around the head or neck.

Migraine Headaches: Intense, throbbing headaches lasting for hours or days, often accompanied by sensitivity to light, sound, and vomiting.

Cluster Headaches: Rare but extremely painful headaches occurring in cycles, usually followed by periods of remission.

Sinus Headaches: Caused by sinusitis, characterized by pain and pressure around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead.

Rebound Headaches: Resulting from overuse of pain medication, leading to persistent, daily headaches.

Hormone Headaches: Related to hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.

Thunderclap Headaches: Sudden, severe headaches requiring immediate medical attention due to potential serious underlying conditions.

Hemicrania Continua: Chronic headaches causing continuous pain on one side of the head, responding well to indomethacin.

Primary Stabbing Headaches: Sudden, sharp pains lasting only a few seconds, also known as “ice pick headaches.”

Primary Exertional Headaches: Occurring during or after physical activity, usually lasting a few minutes but can be severe.

Chronic Paroxysmal Hemicrania: Severe, stabbing pain on one side of the head, often with tearing of the eyes and nasal congestion.

Medication Overuse Headaches: Caused by excessive use of pain medications, leading to more frequent and severe headaches.

Symptoms of Headaches

Symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include:

• Fever, neck stiffness, changes in personality, or unusual neurological symptoms
• Sudden, new, or different headaches in individuals over 50
• Thunderclap headaches
• Headaches associated with confusion, inability to move a limb, or other neurological abnormalities
• Visual loss or abnormalities, jaw pain while chewing
• Headaches worsened by exertion, posture changes, or coughing
• A history of serious diseases like AIDS or cancer
• Persistent headaches with increased frequency, intensity, or duration

Causes of Headaches

Common factors causing headaches include:

• Tension: Stress, poor posture, and anxiety
• Hormonal Changes: Estrogen level fluctuations during menstruation or menopause
• Environmental Factors: Bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells
• Medical Conditions: Sinusitis, high blood pressure, and brain tumors

Headache Diagnosis

Diagnosis may involve:

• CT Scan or MRI: Detects brain abnormalities
• Blood Tests: Identifies underlying medical conditions
• Lumbar Puncture: Checks cerebrospinal fluid for infection or other conditions
• EEG: Measures brain activity to identify seizures
• Sinus X-ray: Diagnoses sinusitis

Treatment of Headaches

Treatment options include:

• Non-prescription Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Lifestyle Modifications: Diet, exercise, and sleep changes
• Alternative Therapies: Acupuncture, massage, and other non-traditional treatments
• Surgical Intervention: Rarely needed for underlying conditions

Headache Risk Factors

Risk factors include:

• Genetics: Inherited migraines and cluster headaches
• Gender: Women are more prone to migraines
• Age: Migraines often start in adolescence and peak in the 30s, while cluster headaches are common in men over 30
• Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, sleep, and lack of exercise
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to secondhand smoke, pollution  & certain chemicals

Headache Complications

Potential complications include:

• Stroke: Severe headaches with weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs
• Brain Tumor: Persistent headaches requiring evaluation
• Meningitis: Headaches with stiff neck, fever, and light sensitivity
• Brain Aneurysm: Sudden severe headaches signaling a potential aneurysm
• Seizures: Headaches as a symptom of seizures

Headache Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water
• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques
• Sufficient Sleep: Ensure adequate rest
• Regular Exercise: Maintain physical activity

Advanced Facilities for Headache Treatment

Metro Center for Neurosciences offers comprehensive care for all headache types with facilities such as:

1. Metro Headache Clinic
2. Movement Disorder Clinic
3. Brain Tumour Clinic
4. Spine Clinic

Backache Clinic Positive Approach Towards Headache Treatment

At Metro Institute of Neurosciences, a detailed discussion with patients covers:

• History of Headache Episodes: Recording response to headaches and patterns
• Frequency of Headaches: Assessing days affected and disability levels
• Describing the Worst Attacks: Understanding severe attack patterns
• Triggers and Family History: Identifying migraine triggers and genetic factors
• Analgesic Overuse: Managing and reducing overuse of pain medications

Headache Prognosis

Prognosis depends on the underlying cause and severity. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes for most headache types.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you cure a headache naturally?

Natural remedies include hydration, cold or hot compresses, relaxation techniques, sufficient sleep, and avoiding triggers. Ginger, peppermint oil, and lavender oil may also help.

Does water help with headaches?

 Yes, dehydration is a common cause of headaches. Drinking at least eight glasses of water daily can prevent or relieve headaches.

How long do headaches last?

Tension headaches last 30 minutes to several hours, while migraines can last for hours or days.

Can a virus cause headaches?

Yes, viral infections like the flu, common cold, and COVID-19 can cause headaches. Persistent or severe headaches with other symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.