Headache Pain and What it Means
Headache pain and discomfort in the neck and shoulder area are a common problem. Most pains can be relieved from simple lifestyle changes. However, headache can be a sign of conditions requiring emergency medical treatment. Pain associated with symptoms indicating serious problems need immediate attention.
Tension Headaches
The most common type of headache is tension headache. Muscles in the neck and shoulders become tight and contracted causing tension. Emotional stress can result in tightness of these muscles. Unhealthy lifestyle will also contribute to tension pain. Activities such as overwork, lack of sleep and drugs or alcohol not only contribute to headaches, but can also be detrimental to health in general. Signs of tension headache include:
* dull squeezing pain starting at back of head and moving up
* Feeling of a band tightening
* possible jaw soreness
* possible neck soreness
* pain stays the same with movement
Migraine Headaches
Migraine headaches are less common than tension headaches and present with different symptoms. At the onset of a migraine, an aura is experienced. Flashes of light and visual symptoms occur. Nausea may be present and movement aggravates the pain. Migraines are much more severe than tension headaches, causing throbbing that starts on one side and may move to both.
Cluster and Sinus Headaches
Cluster headaches are severe headaches that appear in “clusters” over a period, and then dissipate. There is no known cause for cluster headaches.
Sinus headaches are caused by infected and inflamed sinus cavities. Pain and pressure in the facial region and over the eyes is common. Other symptoms common with sinus headaches runny nose, postnasal drip, and sore throat related to sinus drainage.
Uncommon headache pain
Headache pain of sudden onset or accompanied by nausea with vomiting should be considered a medical emergency. Pain radiating from the neck could be a sign of cardiac emergency, especially if accompanied by chest and jaw pain. An emergency medical professional should investigate headache pain under the following conditions:
* sudden severe headache
* accompanied by speech and visual disturbances
* accompanied by paralysis of face or limbs
* accompanied by stiff neck
* sudden onset of worst headache ever experienced
* head injury
* gets worse over a twenty four hour period
* with fever
* with chest and/or jaw and shoulder pain.
Treatment of common headaches
Common headaches respond well to stretching exercises and lifestyle changes. Relief of tension headaches by stretching the neck and shoulder muscles is possible. Drinking adequate fluids and getting enough sleep aids in preventing muscle tension. Chiropractic adjustment and massage is beneficial for most tension headaches.
Sources: MayoClinic.com “Tension Headache” (accessed March 25,2010)
Webmd.com”Migraines and Headaches Health Center” (accessed March 25,2010)