A headache, or cephalalgia, is persistent pain in the head that can affect the eyes, temples, nose, skin, or the entire head. The pain may be sharp or dull. Headaches are classified as either primary or secondary, and conditions like migraines often run in families. About 20% of children and adolescents experience headaches, and 70% of adults with headaches are women. In the United States, more than 45 million people suffer from headaches, with over half of those being migraines. Headaches are a leading cause of missed work and school days.

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Types of Headaches

Primary headaches are not caused by another medical condition and include:

  • Tension headaches: The most common type
  • Migraine headaches: Vascular headaches linked to changes in the brain
  • Combination headaches: A mix of tension and migraine
  • Cluster headaches: Severe, less common headaches

Secondary headaches result from an underlying medical condition, such as:

  • Sinus issues
  • Hormonal changes
  • Concussion or head injury
  • Glaucoma
  • Flu or infections
  • Stroke

Causes of Headaches

Physical Triggers:

  • Poor posture or prolonged sitting
  • Sleeping in awkward positions
  • Physical exertion
  • Teeth grinding or jaw clenching
  • Skipping meals
  • Alcohol or drug use
  • Arthritis or certain medications
  • Hormonal changes
  • Infections or hypertension

Environmental Triggers:

  • Food allergies or additives
  • Excess caffeine
  • Changes in barometric pressure
  • Exposure to bright lights or loud noises

Psychological Triggers:

  • Emotional stress or conflicts
  • Lack of sleep
  • Depression or grief
  • Fatigue

Diagnosis of Headaches

If you suffer from frequent headaches, a physician can perform a physical exam and evaluate your symptoms. Diagnostic tests may include:

  • CT scan
  • MRI

Based on results, you may be referred to a headache specialist.

When to Seek Medical Attention

A headache can sometimes signal a more serious condition. Contact your physician if you experience:

  • Severe or worsening pain
  • Headache after a head injury
  • Daily headaches or a new pattern
  • Pain during physical activity
  • Fever, vision changes, or nausea
  • Stiff neck, ear or eye pain
  • Loss of consciousness, convulsions, or disorientation
  • Headaches that interfere with daily life

Treatment and Prevention

Keeping a headache journal can help identify triggers. Record:

  • Date and time of headache
  • Weather conditions
  • Diet and sleep patterns
  • Emotional state

Frequent headaches (three or more times per month) may require preventative measures.

At Michigan Integrative Health, we understand that headaches have many different causes. Our thorough evaluation identifies the underlying triggers and guides you toward strategies to relieve or significantly reduce headaches, improving your quality of life.