Chronic Headaches: Seeking Relief and Solutions for Persistent Pain

Q: Chronic Headaches: Seeking Relief and Solutions for Persistent Pain

Dear Ms. Evelyn： 1. Your condition may be classified as a tension-type headache, although there could be other causes as well. Common scenarios include migraines, cluster headaches, ophthalmic disorders, colds, and headaches induced by medications or foods. A p

Persistent headache

I have been experiencing headaches for over a week, from the moment I wake up until I go to sleep, and the pain is increasing throughout the day.
The pain is mostly concentrated in the left temple, radiating to my eyes and the back of my head.
A few years ago, I had an EEG that showed no abnormalities.
Would seeing a doctor be helpful or improve my condition? Are there any methods I can use to resolve this on my own? My daily routine is normal; I wake up at 6 AM and go to bed before 11 PM, and I do not stay up late or drink alcohol.

Evelyn, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/03

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Dear Ms.
Evelyn:
1.
Your condition may be classified as a tension-type headache, although there could be other causes as well.
Common scenarios include migraines, cluster headaches, ophthalmic disorders, colds, and headaches induced by medications or foods.
A physical examination and possibly further tests are necessary to clarify the situation.
2.
In fact, there are many causes of headaches, and their classification often changes.
This includes migraines, tension-type headaches, cluster headaches, headaches related to head trauma, vascular headaches, non-vascular intracranial headaches, headaches caused by medications or foods, headaches related to non-head infections, metabolic-related headaches, ENT-related headaches, dental-related headaches, ophthalmic-related headaches, brainstem headaches, cranial nerve headaches, and more.
3.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly:
a.
Any sudden severe headache.

b.
Headache accompanied by seizures.

c.
Headache accompanied by fever.

d.
Headache accompanied by confusion.

e.
Headache accompanied by loss of consciousness.

f.
Pain following head trauma.

g.
A sudden onset of headache in someone who previously did not have headaches.

h.
A change in the pattern of a previously existing headache.

i.
Headache that worsens with coughing, straining, or bending over.

j.
Headache that causes you to wake up at night.

k.
Headache accompanied by pain in the eyes or ears.

l.
Headache accompanied by neck stiffness.

Reply Date: 2016/05/03

More Info

Chronic headaches can be a debilitating condition, and it’s understandable that you are seeking relief and solutions for your persistent pain. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing tension-type headaches or possibly migraines, especially since you mention the pain is primarily located around the left temple and radiates to the eyes and back of the head.
First and foremost, it is important to recognize that chronic headaches can have various underlying causes, including stress, poor posture, eye strain, and even dietary factors. Given that you have already undergone a brain wave test with no abnormalities, it’s a good sign, but it does not completely rule out other potential issues. Consulting with a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist, can provide further insights and help rule out any serious conditions that may be contributing to your headaches.

Here are some strategies that may help alleviate your chronic headaches:
1. Identify Triggers: Keeping a headache diary can be beneficial. Document when your headaches occur, their intensity, duration, and any potential triggers such as certain foods, stress levels, or environmental factors (like lighting or noise). This can help you and your doctor identify patterns and triggers.

2. Stress Management: Since stress is a common trigger for headaches, incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine can be helpful. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress levels.

3. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural pain relievers, and can also help alleviate stress.

4. Proper Hydration and Nutrition: Dehydration can lead to headaches, so ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding known headache triggers (like caffeine or certain aged cheeses) can be beneficial.

5. Sleep Hygiene: Although you mentioned having a regular sleep schedule, ensure that your sleep environment is conducive to restful sleep. This includes a comfortable mattress, a dark and quiet room, and avoiding screens before bedtime.

6. Posture Awareness: Poor posture, especially if you spend long hours at a desk or in front of a computer, can contribute to tension headaches. Be mindful of your posture, take regular breaks to stretch, and consider ergonomic adjustments to your workspace.

7. Medication: Over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be effective for managing headache pain. However, it’s important to use these medications judiciously, as overuse can lead to rebound headaches. If you find yourself relying on them frequently, consult your doctor for alternative treatments.

8. Physical Therapy: If your headaches are related to muscle tension or posture, physical therapy may be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide exercises and techniques to improve posture and relieve muscle tension.

9. Alternative Therapies: Some individuals find relief through alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, or massage therapy. These can help alleviate muscle tension and improve overall well-being.

10. Consult a Specialist: If your headaches persist despite trying these strategies, it may be time to consult a headache specialist. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and may recommend treatments such as prescription medications, nerve blocks, or other interventions tailored to your specific condition.

In summary, while it is possible to manage chronic headaches through lifestyle changes and self-care strategies, it is crucial to work with a healthcare professional to ensure that there are no underlying conditions that need to be addressed. Your health and well-being are paramount, and seeking professional guidance can lead to more effective management of your headaches.

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