Understanding Headache Disorders

We understand that headaches can be a pain, literally, and dampen your spirit — especially if they linger for hours or even days. If you’re experiencing persistent headaches, our expert neurology teams are here to help you find the relief you’re longing for and provide personalized treatment that helps you get back to the life you love, pain-free.

Keep reading to hear from one of our neurology experts, Zarmina Mufti, MD, and learn more about headaches, including their causes, the different types and how to manage them.

Why Does a Headache Happen?

Headaches are classified as a neurological condition that many of us have likely experienced. But did you know that according to the National Library of Medicine, more than 50% of people worldwide have some form of headache disorder? “This can range from an annoying headache that won’t go away to debilitating pain that leaves you seeking immediate relief,” explains Dr. Mufti.

Our brains are intricately interconnected with our body and its senses. But what’s going on behind the scenes during a headache? “The pain we experience during a headache happens when multiple mechanisms activate nerves that affect our muscles and blood vessels. These nerves then send pain signals to our brains, resulting in a headache,” says Dr. Mufti. Most headaches aren’t cause for concern, but others can be signs of underlying symptoms for more serious conditions.

Types of Headaches and Their Causes

For some, headaches come and go with mild pain. But others experience severe headaches that won’t seem to go away. There are several causes for long-lasting headaches, including:

• Cluster headaches
• Head injuries
• Migraines
• Tension headaches

It’s important to identify the root cause of your headaches so you can seek proper treatment. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are the most severe type of headache, and unfortunately, they usually occur with little to no warning. “They get their name because of the way they affect you,” says Dr. Mufti. “Those with cluster headaches may experience several headaches in a short period of time, and they bring severe pain lasting anywhere from 15 minutes to three hours.”

Usually, the pain from cluster headaches forms on one side of the head, generally in or near the eye. Although the cause of cluster headaches is unknown, there are several symptoms, including redness or swelling around the eye, a drooping eyelid and facial sweating.

Cluster headaches are extremely rare. According to the National Library of Medicine, cluster headaches only affect around 0.1% of the population.

Head Injuries

It’s common for those who’ve experienced a concussion or other head injuries to develop new or worsening headaches after the incident. This could be from sports injuries, falls, motor vehicle accidents and many others. Talk to your doctor to make sure any underlying conditions or undiagnosed injuries are not the cause of your persistent pain. “Headaches caused by head injuries can often be treated using over-the-counter medication or physical therapy,” affirms Dr. Mufti.

Migraines

A migraine is a severe headache that can last for several hours, days or weeks, often leaving you struggling to function. “Migraines often cause throbbing pain on either side of your head, as well as nausea, vomiting, pain behind your eyes and sensitivity to light,” says Dr. Mufti.

It’s estimated that about 12% of Americans experience migraines. While it’s unknown what causes them, there are several triggers, including stress, hormonal changes, certain medications, changes in sleep patterns and overexertion, among others.

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. “These headaches cause mild to moderate pressure and pain in the front and back of the head, as well as the temples,” says Dr. Mufti. “People often describe them as feeling as if there’s a belt tightening around their head.”

The cause of tension headaches is unknown, but research suggests that individuals with increased sensitivity to pain may experience them because of muscle tenderness. Common treatments include prescribed medications and other therapies to ease the pain and pressure in the head.

How to Treat and Prevent Headaches

Different methods to treat headaches include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Drinking enough water
• Getting enough sleep
• Lifestyle changes
• Limiting caffeine
• Over-the-counter or prescribed medication
• Quitting smoking
• Reducing stress
• Regularly exercising

It’s important that you speak with your doctor about your pain to properly identify its cause and create a treatment plan based on your unique health history and risk factors.

When You Should See a Neurologist

If you’ve tried to reduce your headaches, but they aren’t going away, it’s time to see your doctor. If you experience more severe headaches, conventional treatment methods may not relieve your pain. Other signs that it’s time to see your doctor about your pain include:

• Experiencing the same type of headache multiple times in one month
• Headache associated with a fever and stiff neck
• Headache that never goes away
• Severe headache brought on abruptly

“If you’re experiencing headaches accompanied by neurological symptoms, like vision changes, numbness, weakness or speech difficulties, you need to see a neurologist. These could be signs of a more serious neurological condition,” states Dr. Mufti. Early intervention is the best thing you can do for yourself to prevent your condition from worsening and to provide the relief you’re looking for.

We’re Here to Ease Your Headaches and Your Mind

At AdventHealth, we care for you in body, mind and spirit. If you’re dealing with persistent headaches, know that you aren’t alone. Our expert neurologists are here to help you find the relief you need so you can get back to the life you love.

Visit us here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mufti.