Headache is also known as cephalalgia. It can come as a migraine, tension-type headache, or cluster headache. There are studies that state that there is a high risk of depression in those with severe headaches. As common as it might sound, Headaches can be dangerous. It might be wise to consult dr.melissa kempf san antonio in such cases to avoid casualties.
Common reasons for headaches
There are two general types of headaches; Changes to blood vessels, chemicals, and nerves in the brain cause primary headaches. Secondary headaches are an underlying condition such as an infection or head injury, bleeding, clots, and tumors. Having too little fluid in your body can also trigger headaches. Other causes could be stress and over-exertion.
Gastritis can also cause headaches like; non-celiac gluten sensitivity, Helicobacter pylori infection, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, gastroparesis, and hepatobiliary disorders. The treatment of gastrointestinal disorders may resolve or improve the headache. Migraine headaches are also associated with cyclic vomiting syndrome(CVS). CVS is generally characterized by severe vomiting and symptoms such as photophobia, abdominal pain, etc.
When to concern the doctor?
- Sudden onset of the worst headache you have ever had.
- Headache that worsens with exercise or intercourse.
- Neck stiffness caused by the headache.
- Headache after injury to your head or neck.
- Personality changes and strange behavior.
- Unable to understand speech
- Dizziness
- High fever, greater than 102 F to 104 F (39C to 40 C)
- Experiencing any numbness.
- Occur more often than usual
- It worsens or doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medication.
- Keep you from performing your daily routine.
- Cause you distress
A Potentially high-risk headache is that of the secondary type, which can be life-threatening or can cause long-term damage. These headaches require further investigations with neuroimaging and workups, and lab tests.
Other Specific situations that require doctor attention are :
- Pregnant or recently pregnant women.
- People who are immunocompromised, such as HIV, or on strong immune-suppressing medications.
The following are the criteria for low-risk headaches :
- Headaches in a person younger than 30 years old.
- Features typically of Primary headaches
- No abnormal findings were found in the neurological exam
- No concerning change in normal headache pattern.
- No high-risk conditions like HIV.
- No new findings in the tests.
Headaches can be debilitating, but there are numerous ways you can take precautions by keeping yourself hydrated, resting from time to time, avoiding caffeine, exercising, practicing yoga and meditation.
