Types of Headaches: Which One is Yours
A wide range of headache types have been classified under - tension-type headache (TTH), migraine and cluster headache.
Following are the details of each type of headaches:
Tension Headaches.
This is the most common type of headache. It accounts for about 70 per cent of all headaches. Contraction of head and neck muscles cause this type of headache. It is most common in adults and adolescents but it can occur at any age in males and females.
Usually tension headache occurs in isolated incidents but they can become chronic in some people. Stress, fatigue, poor posture and eyestrain can trigger muscle contraction. Tobacco, alcohol and caffeine are other sources of triggering muscle contractions. Before and after a menstrual period most females can experience muscle contractions and resulting headaches.
Migraine Headaches.
Migraine contributes to 20 percent of all headaches. It is considered that migraine headache occurs when blood vessels of the head and neck constrict thereby decreasing blood flow to the vessels.
Migraine is a throbbing pain on one side of the head with an associated feeling of sickness. It is sensitive to light and sound.
Migraine type of headache usually occurs due to family history of migraine, alcohol use, prolonged muscle tension and stress, lack of sleep, active or passive smoking and certain types of foods such as chocolate, nuts and fermented condiments. Foods containing amino acid tyramine (aged cheese, red wine, smoked fish) and foods containing preservatives and artificial sweeteners can also cause migraine headaches.
Migraines are known to affect more women than men and are often chronic. Below are some of the factors that have been identified as being associated with migraines:
Cluster Headaches.
Cluster headaches are sharp and extremely painful headaches. They tend to occur for months and several times a day. They can remain absent for a similar period of time before reviving.
Learn more about causes, symptoms, prevention methods and home remedies to treat it in the other related articles:
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Types of Headaches