What is headache? 

 

A headache is characterized by pain in any part of the head. It can occur on one or both sides and may range from a sharp, throbbing pain to a dull ache. The duration of a headache can vary, lasting anywhere from less than an hour to a few days. There are many types and causes of headaches. While most people experience headaches occasionally, some may have them more frequently. In some cases, a headache can signal a more serious health issue. 

 

What are the potential causes of headaches? 

 

Headaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including: 

 • Medical conditions like: 

 • Anxiety or depression 

 • Hormonal changes (e.g., during menstruation or pregnancy) 

 • Infections or other illnesses 

 • Dental or jaw issues 

 • Back and neck problems 

 • Allergies or medication use 

 • Dietary factors such as: 

 • Caffeine withdrawal 

 • Certain foods or additives 

 • Eating very cold foods 

 • Drinking alcohol 

 • Skipping meals or hydration 

 • Lifestyle habits like: 

 • Smoking 

 • Inadequate or excessive sleep 

 • Poor posture 

 • Stress or tension 

 • Eye strain 

 • Environmental triggers including: 

 • Bright or flickering lights 

 • Loud noises 

 • Strong smells or fumes 

 • Changes in weather, air pressure, or altitude 

 

What are the symptoms of a headache? 

 

The symptoms depend on the type of headache: 

 • Tension-type headache: 

 • The most common type, characterized by constant pain (not throbbing) 

 • Typically felt on both sides of the head 

 • May feel like tightness or pressure around the head and neck 

 • Can last from 30 minutes to several days 

 • Migraine: 

 • Often a throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head 

 • Accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light, noise, or smells 

 • Can last from 4 to 72 hours 

 • Sinus headache: 

 • Pain and tenderness around the eyes, cheeks, or forehead 

 • Usually felt on one side of the face 

 • Often worsens when bending forward or lying down 

 • Medication overuse headache: 

 • Caused by frequent use of painkillers for headaches or migraines 

 • Occurs more than 15 days per month if pain relievers are taken over 10 days per month for more than 3 months 

 • Cluster headache: 

 • Intense, one-sided pain around or behind the eye 

 • Pain begins quickly, often within minutes 

 • May be accompanied by nasal congestion, redness, tearing, or swelling of the eye 

 • Triggered by smoking and alcohol use (though the exact cause is unknown) 

 

How can I treat headaches? 

 

Headaches can be treated using over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as: 

 • Paracetamol, Paracetamol with Codeine, or Paracetamol with Codeine and Caffeine 

 • NSAIDs like Ibuprofen, Naproxen, or Diclofenac 

 

Beacons Health provides some examples of such OTC medications which can be found from the link provided 

 

https://www.beaconshealth.com/search?q=panamol 

 

When should I see a doctor? 

 

While most headaches can be managed without a doctor’s consultation, you should seek medical help if: 

 • Your headache worsens or doesn’t improve after 2 weeks 

 • You experience any of the following: 

 • A “thunderclap” headache or the worst headache of your life 

 • Headaches not relieved by non-prescription pain relievers 

 • Headaches occurring more than 15 days a month 

 • Pain relievers needed for more than 10 days per month over a 3-month period 

 • Headaches following exercise, sex, straining, or coughing 

 • New or sudden headaches, especially if you’re using birth control or hormone replacement therapy 

 • Headaches after a head injury 

 • Headaches accompanied by a stiff neck, confusion, numbness, weakness, vision changes, or difficulty speaking 

 • Other symptoms like rashes, seizures, or numbness on one side of the body 

 

How can I manage headaches? 

 

In addition to medication, managing headaches can involve: 

 • Keeping a headache diary to track patterns, triggers, and treatments 

 • Making lifestyle adjustments such as: 

 • Improving sleep habits 

 • Getting enough rest 

 • Regular exercise 

 • Eating a healthy diet 

 • Practicing relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing 

 • Resting in a quiet, dark room 

 • Applying a cool cloth to your head 

 

What are some tips to prevent headaches? 

 

To reduce the frequency of headaches, consider the following tips: 

 • Avoid known headache triggers 

 • Manage stress and delegate tasks to reduce strain 

 • Exercise moderately for at least 30 minutes most days of the week 

 • Ensure you get enough sleep 

 • Eat regular, balanced meals 

 • Drink plenty of water daily 

 • Limit caffeine and alcohol intake 

 • Avoid smoking 

 • Wear sunglasses to reduce glare 

 • Practice good posture and stretch your neck and shoulders while reading or using a computer. Take regular breaks if working in one position for extended periods. 

Sources:

https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/diseases-and-conditions/headache

https://www.beaconshealth.com/search?q=panamol