Headaches: Common but Not Normal

Headaches are one of the most common medical complaints in the world. While headaches are certainly common, this does not mean they are normal. In fact, headaches can be an indication that something is wrong with your body. If you suffer from frequent headaches, it is important to seek chiropractic care and find out what is causing them. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of headaches and how chiropractic care can help prevent and treat them.

Types of Headaches

There are many different types of headaches, and each type can have different causes. The most common types of headaches include migraine, tension, and cluster.

Migraines  are characterized by severe pain, often on one side of the head. They can also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines are thought to be caused by changes in the brain, including the release of certain chemicals.

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. They are usually characterized by a dull, constant pain. Tension headaches are often caused by stress, muscle tension, and poor posture.

Cluster headaches are less common than migraines and tension types, but they can be just as severe. Clusters are characterized by short, sharp bursts of pain, usually on one side of the head. They often occur in clusters, meaning that a person may experience several headaches in a row. Cluster headaches are thought to be caused by changes in the blood vessels and nerves around the head.

Causes

There are many different causes of headaches. In some cases, the cause is unknown. However, there are some common triggers that can lead to headaches, including:

• Stress: stress can cause head pain by tightening the muscles in the head and neck.
• Sleep: changes in sleep patterns can trigger headaches. This includes not getting enough sleep, as well as sleeping too much.
• Food: certain foods, such as chocolate, cheese, and caffeine, can trigger head pain.
• Alcohol: alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which can cause the pain.
• Muscle tension: tightness in the neck and shoulders can cause head pain.
• Posture: poor posture can put strain on the muscles and nerves in the head and neck, leading to pain.
• Eye strain: staring at a computer screen or other digital device for long periods of time can cause eye strain and headaches.
• Clenching or grinding teeth: this can put strain on the muscles in the head and neck, leading to pain.

When is a Headache Serious?

Most headaches are not life-threatening, there are some instances when a headache may be a sign of a more serious condition. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is important to see a doctor. Head pain that is accompanied by: 

• Fever, stiff neck, or confusion
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Paralysis or loss of sensation

Additionally if your head pain is severe and sudden, and does not go away with over-the-counter medication, then it’s important to seek immediate medical care.

Health Risks

A headache that is unusually severe or reoccurring should be taken seriously. Call us to schedule an appointment for testing like MRIs or x-rays to ensure your pain isn’t linked to serious health risks like:

• Blood clots within the brain
• Stroke
• A concussion due to a fall
• Viral meningitis
• Carbon monoxide poisoning at home or at work
• Aneurysms in the brain
• Brain or spinal tumors
• Toxoplasmosis

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

If you suffer from frequent headaches, chiropractic care can help. Chiropractors are trained to identify and treat problems with the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. By aligning the spine and correcting any imbalances, chiropractors can help relieve pressure on the nerves and muscles, which can lead to head pain. Chiropractic care can also help to improve posture and relieve stress, both of which can help prevent head pain.

Other treatments at our Austin clinic can include:

• Stress reduction techniques to stop the pain from developing
• Adjustment and manipulation of the spine to release pressure on crucial nerves
• Traction or computer assisted stretching to stop tension in the neck from irritating the head
• Cervical corrective care to restore the cervical lordosis
• Referrals for further treatment if you are facing a life threatening condition

Make an Appointment with Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center

Headaches are common, but not necessarily normal. If you’re experiencing headaches, our team at Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center can help. We offer a variety of treatment options that can help to relieve your pain and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!