Migraines And Headaches

What are the types of headaches?

Knowing the type of headache that’s causing your suffering can help Dr. Spohn determine the best treatment.

Tension

A tension headache is the most common and is caused when the muscles in your shoulders, neck, jaw, or scalp tighten up. With a tension headache, you may feel mild-to-moderate pain that comes and goes without any other symptoms.

Cluster

Cluster headaches are the least common type of headache, but cause the most severe pain. It causes an intense burning or piercing sensation behind one of your eyes. The pain can last from 15 minutes to three hours.

Sinus

Sinus headaches cause pain in your cheeks, nose, or forehead and are due to inflammation caused by allergies and congestion.

How are headaches treated?

Treatment for your headaches may include lifestyle changes and medical recommendations. Dr. Spohn partner with you to develop the best treatment to reduce your pain.

Treatment may include:

• Techniques to better manage stress
• Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers
• Counseling

If you have sinus headaches, Dr. Spohn can help you better manage allergies, which may improve or stop your pain.

What is a migraine?

A migraine is a type of headache that causes a throbbing type pain on one side of your head, which can last hours or days. In addition to head pain, you may also experience sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting.

Various factors may bring on your migraine, including:

• Monosodium glutamate, coffee, or red wine
• Stress
• Exercise
• Bright lights or sun glare
• Medication
• Seasonal or weather changes
• Hormonal changes

Knowing your specific migraine trigger can help direct treatment.

How are migraines treated?

You have a number of treatment options to help manage migraine pain and future flare ups.

Pain management

For pain relief before or during a migraine, Dr. Spohn may recommend:

• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Triptans
• Ergots

You may also be given medication to help reduce the nausea and vomiting associated with your migraine.

Prevention

If your migraines are chronic and debilitating, Dr. Spohn may recommend treatments to help prevent the onset of your migraine, which may include:

• Antidepressants
• Cardiovascular medications
• Anti-seizure medications

Finding techniques to help reduce stress, such as exercise or meditation, may also help prevent a migraine flare up.

If your headaches are debilitating, call the health care experts at Cedar Plains Family Medicine, or schedule an appointment now using the online booking button.