What Are Headaches & Migraines?

Headaches and migraines are neurological conditions that cause recurring head pain, often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light, or visual disturbances.

Common Types

• Tension headaches
• Migraine with aura
• Migraine without aura
• Cluster headaches
• Chronic daily headaches

Symptoms

• Pulsating or throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Blurred vision or aura symptoms
• Fatigue and irritability

Diagnosis

Diagnosis includes:

• Detailed medical history
• Neurological examination
• Brain imaging (MRI/CT) if needed
• Laboratory tests to rule out other causes

Treatment Options

• Pain-relieving medications (NSAIDs, triptans)
• Preventive medications (beta-blockers, anticonvulsants)
• Lifestyle adjustments: sleep, diet, hydration, stress reduction
• Alternative therapies: acupuncture, physiotherapy, relaxation techniques

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention for severe, sudden, or worsening headaches, or if accompanied by neurological symptoms like weakness, vision changes, or speech difficulties.