ABOUT HEADACHES

Headaches are a common human malady. 70-80% of adults experience headaches occasionally and 40% experience a severe headache sometime in life. It can be helpful to know how best to treat a headache as well as when to worry about the one you have.

Headaches are classified as benign (migraine, tension-type, cluster, mixed) and organic (arising from an underlying medical problem such as aneurysm or infection). Approximately 99% are benign and, while symptoms may range from mild discomfort to total disability, these headaches do not cause permanent problems.

The garden-variety headache experienced by most of us at one time or another can initially be treated with over-the-counter acetaminophen (Tylenol) or NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as Advil) and do not require medical attention. Headaches that are new, severe, persistent or progressive or that are associated with other physical symptoms should be evaluated. This evaluation will include a history and focused physical examination. Specific blood tests, imaging studies such as CT scan or MRI and referrals to specialists may be suggested by your health care professional if needed to make a diagnosis. Everyone with a headache does not need an MRI!

Most headaches (99%--remember) are troublesome but not life threatening. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment options can be discussed. Life circumstances-stress, fatigue, excess or shortage of sleep, eyestrain, hunger, alcohol and drugs, menstruation, and others-precipitate many headaches.

Identification of which circumstance affects your health can lead to life changes and decreased headache frequency.

Medical options include OTC and prescription pain medications (narcotic medications are seldom the best choice), antidepressants, and specialized medications such as triptans. For chronic recurrent headaches prophylaxis is sometimes suggested. This means taking a daily medication to prevent headache occurrence. If the headache is secondary to another physical condition, treatment of that condition is appropriate and usually curative.

Headaches are all too common. However, if your headache persists, worsens, is "the worst headache ever" or is associated with other physical symptoms, do consult with your health care provider.

Questions may be addressed to personnel at the Student Health Center (775) 784-6598.

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