Headache Prevention
How headache occur?
Headaches occur by definition headache: frequency, location, accompanying signs but also their duration vary diagnostics.
Migraine evolves by recurrent seizures and there is no pain between attacks (free range). Migraine may be accompanied by signs called auras: visual auras (or ophthalmic migraines) sensory, with speech disorders or muscle strength.
Tension headache is more diffuse, non-pulsatile and unmodified by the effort. It is usually less intense than migraine but can also be associated.
The cluster headache causes pain located at the orbit of the eye and takes a few minutes to 180 minutes. The pain is accompanied by at least one of the following signs: red eye, tearing, runny nose, sweating, eyelid falls on the side of pain or swelling of the eyelid.
With what should we be confused?
Headache or sudden onset or recently amended should suggest a cause to look for further investigations.
Disorders of the cervical spine (due to shock or due to osteoarthritis) can cause headaches. Similarly, a disturbance of vision uncorrected may cause headache: a measure of visual acuity and a possible correction will overcome headaches.
Is there a prevention possible?
Whatever the prescribed medication, it is essential to take the earliest possible during headache. Certain factors are aggravating or triggering crises: the spot can be avoided to the maximum. Alcohol, certain foods but also the hassle and stress are often part.
Relaxation feedback (biofeedback) therapy and stress management are effective to some psychological profiles. Acupuncture, homeopathy and cervical manipulation have not proven scientific prevention of migraine.
Headache Preparing consultation
When to consult?
The appearance of a brutal headache ("thunderclap in a clear sky") must consult emergency (subarachnoid hemorrhage ...). Similarly, the presence of unusual accompanying signs such as fever (meningitis), paralysis or seizures (AVC ...) require emergency medical consultation or call the SAMU Centre 15.
What is the doctor?
Diagnosis between migraine, tension headaches or cluster headaches face is mainly clinical, based on highly codified criteria (duration, repetition, location ...). Questioning is a fundamental step in the medical consultation. Then the doctor will perform a thorough neurological examination should be normal. In case of malfunction or doubt, additional tests will be offered, but there is no indication to perform a CT scan or MRI immediately.
However, in case of sudden onset of headache, headache, headache different from recent normal or abnormal clinical examination, a CT scan or MRI will be performed.
Other tests such as radiographs (sinus, cervical spine) or ophthalmologic examination will be offered depending on the case.
The doctor may initiate treatment drug crisis (analgesics, anti-inflammatory, triptans ...) and / or therapy.
How to prepare my next visit?
It is important to prepare the first consultation in identifying the frequency and circumstances of the occurrence of crises. Then, keeping a diary of crises can judge the effectiveness of treatment and better adapt to: attention to the misuse of painkillers that a vicious circle may result in chronic headaches abuse medication.
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