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Understanding Head Pain Part 2

Understanding Head Pain Is it a headache or migraine? (Part 2)


Different types of headache

The three most common types of headache are the tension headache, cluster headache and sinus headache.

Tension headache: This type of headache accounts for close to 90 per cent of headaches and is more common among women than men. Tension headaches are characterized by a dull, aching pain and may be triggered by physical or emotional stress, eye strain, fatigue or hunger. Many women experience tension headaches before their periods and during menopause. These headaches respond well to analgesics such as Excedrin* Tension Headache (acetaminophen), ASA and ibuprofen.

Cluster headache: This type of headache is more common among men than women. The pain experienced is sudden and severe and, since it tends to be on one side of the head, is often
confused with a migraine.Whereas migraines tend to last a few hours, however, cluster headaches are usually short lived. They tend to occur a number of times over the course of a few weeks to several months (i.e. in “clusters”) with remission periods where no headaches are experienced. Most people will suffer one or two cluster periods in a year.

Cluster headaches often don’t respond well to over-thecounter painkillers. If you are experiencing this type of headache, your doctor will likely be able to prescribe a medication that works better for you.

Roughly 85 per cent of cluster headache sufferers are men, usually between the ages of 20 and 50.

Cluster headaches are linked to the use of certain medications, such as nitroglycerin; alcohol consumption; smoking and changes in the weather.

Sinus headache: This type of headache is caused by inflammation of the sinuses and associated swelling. Often, the cheekbones, teeth and jaw ache as well as the head. Sinus headaches tend to be more common among allergy sufferers and people with chronic infections of the upper respiratory tract. Decongestant formulations with an analgesic are the treatment of choice for sinus headaches.

 

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