Headaches and migraines are common ailments among women that can range from minor annoyances to frightening and debilitating conditions that affect daily life and quality of life. To a considerable degree, we tend to take these ailments in our stride, such as taking some medication or lying down in a dark and quiet room. However, headaches and migraines can be a symptom of a bigger problem, be it medical or lifestyle related.  In this post, we discuss what headaches and migraines are, the different types, and what you can do to alleviate them.

 

How to identify a headache?

First, it is important to understand the difference between headaches and migraines. A headache is a pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. They can be caused by a variety of factors such as stress, tension, dehydration or even a change in weather. Headaches can be classified into two main categories: primary and secondary. Primary headaches are not caused by underlying medical conditions and include tension headaches and migraines. Secondary headaches are caused by underlying medical conditions such as infection, injury, or a tumour.

There are several types of headaches women may experience. The most common types include tension headaches and sinus headaches. Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and are caused by muscle tension in the head and neck. They often feel like a band around the head and can be relieved by over-the-counter pain medication. Sinus headaches are due to a sinus infection (sinusitis) and are usually accompanied by pain or pressure around the eyes, cheeks and forehead or a stuffy nose, but may also be caused by migraines.

 

How to identify a migraine?

Migraines, on the other hand, are a type of primary headache that is characterized by intense and often debilitating pain. They are often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances. Migraines are believed to be caused by changes in the brainstem and its interactions with the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face.

Similar to headaches, there are several different types of migraines, including:

• Migraine with aura: This type of migraine is characterized by visual disturbances such as flashing lights or blind spots before the headache begins.
• Migraine without aura: This type of migraine does not have any visual disturbances before the headache begins.
• Chronic migraine: This type of migraine is characterized by headaches that occur on 15 or more days per month for at least three months.
• Vestibular migraine: This type of migraine is characterized by dizziness or vertigo in addition to headaches.

 

How to reduce the frequency of headaches and migraines?

Women are more likely to experience migraines than men, and there are several factors that can contribute to this. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can trigger migraines. Certain foods and drinks, changes in sleep patterns, stress, lack of sleep, and certain foods and drinks can also trigger migraines. Also, women who experience migraines may be more sensitive to changes in the weather, bright lights, and strong smells.

To alleviate headaches and migraines, it is important to identify and avoid triggers. Here are a few tips:

• Keep a headache diary: Keeping track of when headaches occur, what might be possible triggers, and how severe they are can help identify patterns and potential triggers that you can subsequently avoid.
• Manage stress: Stress is a common trigger for headaches and migraines. Finding ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, exercise, massages and acupuncture, can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
• Get enough sleep: Fatigue and a lack of sleep can be triggers for headaches and migraines. Getting at least seven hours of sleep per night can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
• Avoid potential triggers: Identifying and avoiding potential triggers, such as certain foods (such as dairy, sugar, and processed foods) and drinks (such as alcohol and dairy), can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
• Use over-the-counter medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers that have ingredients, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help alleviate headaches.
• Consult with a healthcare professional: If headaches and migraines are interfering with your daily life, consulting with a healthcare professional can help identify underlying causes and develop a treatment plan.

Additionally, if you are experiencing frequent and severe migraines that are interfering with your daily life, consider speaking with your healthcare provider, who can help to identify underlying causes and develop a treatment plan. There are several prescription medications available that can help prevent migraines and reduce the severity of symptoms.

 

In summary, headaches and migraines affect millions of women around the world. Though they may be a ‘part of life’, many women tend to suffer in silence. However, by understanding what headaches and migraines are, the different types of each, and how the frequency or severity might be reduced, you can take greater control of your life and your health.

 

 

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