What is a Severe Headache?

What is a Severe Headache?

Asevere headache is a type of headache that is intense and unbearable. It often makes it difficult to carry out normal daily activities and negatively affects a person's quality of life. Severe headache can occur due to different causes, such as migraine or tension-type headache. Migraine is usually characterized by a one-sided, pulsating and severe pain, and may have accompanying symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light. A tension-type headache is characterized by a diffuse feeling of pressure or squeezing on both sides of the head.

Severe headache should be evaluated under the supervision of a health care professional to determine the underlying cause and administer appropriate treatment.

What Causes Severe Headache?

Severe headache can occur due to different causes. Here are some common causes of these pains:

Migraine: Migraine is a neurological disorder that causes severe and frequently recurring headaches. It is usually unilateral and characterized by pulsating pain. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound may also occur during migraine attacks.

Tension Headache: This type of headache is usually characterized by a feeling of tightness or pressure on both sides of the head. Factors such as stress, tension and poor posture can cause tension headache.

Cluster Headache: Cluster headache causes intense and recurrent headaches. It is usually accompanied by pain in the area around one eye.

Sinusitis: Sinusitis can occur as a result of inflammation of the nasal sinuses and can cause headaches.

Blood Pressure Problems: High blood pressure or low blood pressure can lead to headaches.

Stress and Anxiety: Severe stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen headaches.

Nutrition: Certain foods or drinks can trigger migraines or cause headaches. Factors such as caffeine, alcoholic drinks, processed foods can be effective.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can trigger migraine attacks, especially in women. This can be associated with menstruation or hormonal changes.

Other Health Problems: Headaches can be a symptom of some health problems. For example, problems with the cervical vertebrae, dental problems or eye problems can lead to headaches.

How to relieve a severe headache?

The following methods can be applied to relieve or relieve severe headache:

Medication: Using painkillers or migraine medications recommended for headaches can help relieve the pain. However, you should always consult a health professional before using medication.

Rest: Getting enough rest and sleep can help reduce headaches. Poor sleeping habits can trigger headaches, so it is important to maintain a regular sleep schedule.

Drinking Water: Dehydration can cause headaches. Drinking plenty of water is important to keep the body hydrated and relieve headaches.

Dark and Quiet Environment: Resting in a dark and quiet environment during a severe headache can help you relax. Light and noise can increase pain.

Cold Application: Putting a cold compress or cold towel on the head can reduce the severity of a headache. Cold can help relieve pain by constricting blood vessels.

Hot Shower or Bath: The relaxing effect of hot water can relieve a headache. You can try taking a hot shower or bath.

Stress Management: If you think the headache is caused by stress, you can try methods to reduce stress. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing or yoga can be effective.

Neck and Shoulder Massage: Headaches are often associated with tense neck and shoulder muscles. Therefore, a gentle massage can help relieve the pain.

Medication Regimen: If you suffer from migraine or recurrent headaches, taking medication regularly as prescribed by your doctor can help prevent attacks.

How to Prevent Severe Headache?

You can take the following measures to prevent severe headache:

Regular Exercise: Regular exercise at least a few days a week can reduce the risk of headaches.

Balanced Diet: A healthy and balanced diet can help prevent headaches. It is especially important to limit trigger foods.

Adequate Sleep: Getting enough sleep can reduce headache attacks. Establish a regular sleep schedule.

Stress Management: Stress can be one of the triggers of headaches. Try relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing to reduce and manage stress.

Recognize Triggers: It is important to recognize headache triggers. Avoid foods, drinks or activities that cause headache attacks.

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can trigger a headache. Drinking plenty of water can help the body get enough water and prevent headaches.

Regular Medication Use: Regular use of headache medications recommended by your doctor can help prevent headache attacks.

Monitoring Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can trigger migraines, especially in women. Monitor these changes and discuss with your doctor how they can be managed.

Regular Doctor Check-ups: If headaches are recurring or severe, be in regular contact with a health professional. It is important to identify the underlying cause of the headache and create the appropriate treatment plan.

Attention to Environmental Factors: Avoid bright lights, high noise levels or bad weather. These environmental factors can trigger headaches.

Share
CreatorNP Istanbul Hospital Editorial Board
Updated At05 March 2024
Created At09 October 2023
Let Us Call You
Phone