01-20-2009, 10:42 PM
In general, a tension-type headache may cause diffuse (spread out, not in one place) pressure or tightness. Sometimes, muscles surrounding the head are tender.The pain may be on both sides of the head, or it may cause an aching or squeezing sensation located in the forehead, temples, or back of the head with radiation to the neck and shoulders. Pain is usually moderate in intensity, not severely disabling, and not associated with the typical symptoms of migraine, such as nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to sound or light.The onset of pain is usually gradual and not associated with any prodrome or period in which a person can feel a headache coming on.People may associate the onset of a tension-type headache to periods during or after stress and usually toward the latter part of the day.If the tension-type headache is present for more than 15 days a month or longer than 6 months, it is considered chronic rather than episodic.Migraine is the most common type of headache disorder, and an attack can affect every aspect of a sufferer's personal, social, or working life. Although the condition is not life-threatening, it can severely affect quality of life.Migraine has various characteristics, but not everyone has all the symptoms. It is characterized as a recurring headache that varies in intensity, how often it occurs, and how long it lasts.It usually affects only one side of the head and may be accompanied by decreased appetite, nausea, andvomiting.The headache may last for hours, or sometimes days, with the sufferer having to go to bed in a dark room.For those who suffer with recurring Migraine headaches, drugs taken daily for a period of weeks or months may offer some benefit.AnticonvulsantsAlter the activity of the chemicals within the brain responsible for spasm or relaxation of blood vessels.AntidepressantsAlter the activity of chemicals within the brain responsible for spasm or relaxation of blood vessels.Beta-BlockersExact mechanism of action is unknown. May help stabilize the blood vessels in the brain to prevent spasm.Calcium AntagonistsMay reduce the blood vessels'ability to contract in the initial stages of a Migraine attack.Ergot DerivativesAlter brain chemicals to decrease excessive blood flow of blood through the vessels in the brain.NSAIDsDecrease the inflammation which may contribute to painWhen these medications are no longer effective in providing adequate pain relief, preventative therapy should be started.Analgesics (mild)Relieve the painful headache (either alone or in combination with other medications).Ergot DerivativesAlter brain chemicals to decrease excessive blood flow of blood through the vessels in the brain.NSAIDsDecrease inflammation which may contribute to pain.Serotonin (5-HT) Receptor AgonistsAct specifically on the 5-HT receptors to reduce the widening of the blood vessels in the brain.Available in a variety of forms, including nasal sprays, injections, or tablets that disolve under the tongue (useful where attacks are sccompanied by vomiting).Ice PacksSome people find that the application of an ice pack to the head helps to dull the pain.Complimentary RemediesSome people find Complimentary remedies have a beneficial affect. These include homeopathy and acupuncture.
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