Headache2025-06-23T20:31:53+01:00

Headache

A headache is a common condition that causes pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. It can feel like a dull ache, sharp pain, or throbbing sensation, and may last from a few minutes to several hours or more.

Headache Overview

Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Causes

Headaches can be categorized into primary and secondary types:

Primary Headaches: These occur independently and are not due to other medical conditions. Common types include:

  • Tension-type headaches: Often linked to stress, poor posture, or muscle strain.
  • Migraines: Associated with neurological factors, including changes in brain activity and blood flow.
  • Cluster headaches: Characterized by severe pain on one side of the head, often around the eye.

Secondary Headaches: These result from underlying health issues, such as:

  • Sinus infections
  • High blood pressure
  • Medication overuse
  • Neck or jaw disorders
  • Head injuries

Symptoms

Headache symptoms can vary based on the type:

  • Tension-type Headaches:

      • Dull, aching head pain

      • Sensation of tightness or pressure across the forehead or on the sides and back of the head

      • Tenderness on the scalp, neck, and shoulder muscles

  • Migraines:

      • Moderate to severe throbbing pain, often on one side of the head.

      • Nausea and vomiting.

      • Sensitivity to light, sound, and sometimes smell.

      • Visual disturbances.

  • Cluster Headaches:
      • Intense, burning or piercing pain around or behind one eye.
      • Redness and tearing of the eye.
      • Nasal congestion or runny nose on the affected side.
      • Restlessness or agitation.

Risk Factors

 A family history of migraines or other headache disorders

Migraines are more prevalent in women, particularly between the ages of 15 and 55.

Consumption of certain foods and beverages, such as aged cheeses, processed meats, alcohol, and caffeine.

Fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.

Exposure to bright lights, loud noises, strong odors, or changes in weather.

Stress, irregular sleep patterns, dehydration, and poor posture.

Can Headaches be prevented?

Implementing certain lifestyle changes can help prevent or reduce the frequency of headaches:

Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night and establish consistent sleep and wake times.

Stay Hydrated: Drink sufficient water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.

Manage Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

Monitor Dietary Habits: Identify and avoid foods that trigger headaches; maintain regular meal times.

Exercise Regularly: Incorporate moderate physical activity into your routine to reduce stress and improve overall health.

Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake: Excessive consumption can lead to headaches; moderation is key.

Maintain Good Posture: Especially important for individuals who sit for extended periods.

Protect Against Environmental Triggers: Use sunglasses to shield eyes from bright light and avoid strong odors when possible.

How Chequers can help Diagnose and Treat

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    A pelvic ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test used to assess organs and structures in the pelvic area. It is commonly used to examine the uterus, ovaries, bladder, and other surrounding tissues

    A pelvic scan can help investigate symptoms such as pelvic pain, irregular periods, bloating, or unusual bleeding. It can also support monitoring of known conditions like ovarian cysts or fibroids.

    No. While commonly used in women’s health, pelvic scans can also be performed on men to evaluate the bladder, prostate, or other pelvic concerns.

    Transabdominal scans are performed over the lower abdomen using external ultrasound.

    Transvaginal scans involve inserting a small probe into the vagina for clearer imaging of internal pelvic organs. This is optional and requires your consent.

    You may be asked to drink water before the scan to ensure a full bladder, which helps improve visibility. Specific instructions will be provided when booking.

    Most pelvic scans are painless. You may feel slight pressure during the procedure. Transvaginal scans may feel a little uncomfortable, but should not be painful.

    The scan typically lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the areas being assessed and the type of scan performed.

    While a pelvic scan can detect certain abnormalities, such as masses or cysts, it is not a cancer screening test. Any unusual findings will usually be referred for further specialist investigation.

    The scan images are reviewed by a reporting clinician or radiologist. The results are typically sent to the referring clinician, who will discuss them with you during a follow-up consultation.

    Ultrasound is considered very safe. It does not involve ionising radiation and is commonly used in pregnancy and routine diagnostic imaging.

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