1. Health

Headaches & Migraines: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Headaches and Migraines - What Are Ice Pick...
Ice pick headaches are stabbing, extremely intense headaches that can be absolutely terrifying. They generally only last between five and 30 seconds. However, they come out of nowhere, can strike anywhere on the head, literally feel as if an ice pick is being stuck into your head, then disappear before you can even figure out what's happening.
Dehydration and Headaches: Does Dehydration...
The main cause of dehydration is not drinking enough water to maintain healthy levels A variety of unpleasant symptoms occur when this happens, including headaches. Severe dehydration is serious and potentially life threatening.
Understanding Alcohol Induced Headaches
An article that explains causes of alcohol-induced headaches.
All About Ice Pick Headaches
Ice pick headaches create a sharp, jabbing sensation, often around the eyes or in the temple area
Orgasm, Headache and Migraine: Does the...
Orgasm & Headache/Migraine: Does the "Big O" cause or cure headaches and migraine? We've all heard the old joke, "Not tonight, dear. I have a headache." Right? Surprisingly enough, for some people, there definitely is a correlation between sexual activity and headache or migraine. For some, orgasm can bring on head pain; for others, orgasm can relieve it.
Dealing With a Dehydration Headache
Ana article that addresses the common causes and prevention methods for dehydration headaches
Hypoglycemia and Headaches
An article dealing with the onset of headache caused by hypoglycemia
Is A Pinched Nerve Causing Your Headache?
Learn how a pinched nerve can cause a headache.
Diagnosing Headaches
Diagnosing headaches does not need to be a complicated matter. In order for your physician to properly diagnose your headache and prescribe an adequate treatment, it is important to relay symptoms in an orderly and logical format.
Using Ibuprofen to Treat Headaches
Ibuprofen is one of the Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) available today, and physicians have been using ibuprofen to treat headaches for years. It can be purchased over the counter, but larger doses are available by prescription. It is used to control pain and inflammation found in a variety of conditions, including migraines and headaches, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and muscle aches. Ibuprofen can also be used to reduce fever.
What is a Silent Migraine?
Learn about silent migraines
Dangerous Headaches in Pregnancy
While you don’t need to worry much about many headaches, there is such a thing as dangerous headaches in pregnancy. Migraines won’t necessarily get worse during pregnancy, and they can be treated fairly easily, but occasionally a headache can be a warning sign of more serious problems.
Barometric Pressure Chnages - Migraines Often...
Migraineurs may be able to avoid triggering the excruciating attacks by avoiding some triggers, but there's little they can do about one of the most common Migraine triggers: the weather. Half of Migraineurs were sensitive to weather variables, but most were wrong in their prediction of which climate variable was the culprit, according to findings of a recent study.
What You Need to Know When You Get Social...
What You Need to Know When You Get Social Security Benefits Brochure
Retinal (Ocular) Migraines
Sometimes migraine headaches can affect the eyes, causing pain and visual changes.
Is Working At My Computer Causing My Headaches?
An article that outlines some of the issues surrounding computer use and headache
All About Abdominal Migraines
Abdominal migraines, or migraines in the stomach area, can cause abdominal distress, nausea and vomiting.
Coping with Migraine Auras
Some migraine sufferers experience migraine aura, a brain dysfunction that can result in strange sensations all over the body. Auras are generally viewed as a warning that a migraine is coming
The Phases of a Migraine
There are four main phases of a migraine headache, and knowing these phases can help you begin treatment early - before the really bad symptoms starts.
Alcohol and Headaches
Alcohol and headaches have gone together for as long as can be remembered. Headaches are usually associated with “hangovers” and the effects of heavy drinking the day before. There are also so-called “soon-after headaches” that can appear shortly after your first drink as well.
How Doctors Diagnose Headache
How Doctors Diagnose Headache by Donald J. Dalessio, MD
Headaches and Migraines - Thyroid Disease Can...
Comorbid conditions can have significant impact on effective treatment of the individual disorders. Thyroid diseases, including hypothyroidism, are among the conditions now known to often be comorbid with headaches and migraines.
Anatomy of a Migraine - The Phases of a...
When many people think “migraine” they think only of the pain of migraine. In reality, a migraine episode consists of far more. The typical migraine episode actually consists of four parts, referred to as phases or components.
Headache and Migraine Glossary: Parietal
Glossary of terms and abbreviations asssociated with Migraine disease, tension headaches, cluster headaches, and other head pain disorders. Also includes abbreviations used in writing prescriptions.
Is It Migraine? Tension? What? What IS your...
Over 90% of us will experience headache of some kind at some time in our lives. It is estimated that, in the United States, there are 100 million people who are afflicted with a chronic head pain disorder. There are over 32 million Migraineurs alone. There are different kinds of head pain, requiring differing treatments. Proper diagnosis is essential to our overall health and to obtain the best possible treatment for our head pain, whatever type it is.
Coping with Nausea From A Migraine
Outlines coping strategies for dealing with nausea symptoms induced by migraine.
Your Medical Records - Your Rights To Your...
Our medical records are the method by which our current doctors follow our health and our health care. They're also important to provide background if you need to see a specialist and to bring new doctors up-to-speed. Our medical records are the records of the people with whom we literally entrust our lives. Let's explore some of the issues regarding medical records.
What Is Hemiplegic Migraine?
To understand Hemiplegic Migraine, we have to understand that Migraine attacks are episodic manifestations of a genetic neurological disease. Migraine can present in a variety of ways. Hemiplegic Migraine is a rare form of Migraine, made more confusing by there being two variations: Familial Hemiplegic Migraine (FHM) and Sporadic Hemiplegic Migraine (SHM).
Top 10 Things To Stop Doing If You Suffer From...
A comprehensive list of strategies to avoid migraine triggers.
Coping With Sinus Headaches
An article on the causes, symptoms and remedies to relieve sinus headaches.
All About Sinus Headaches
In addition to the pain and pressure experienced in or around the forehead, cheeks and nose, sinus headaches may be accompanied by congestion, cough, runny nose, sore throat, fatigue, fever or sneezing.
Migraine Prevention (Prophylaxis)
Migraine headaches can hit at any time, and treating them may not always be convenient. If you suffer from regular migraines, your health care provider may recommend preventative treatments rather than simple abortive therapies.
Classifying Headaches
Since headaches come in a variety of types, classifying headaches according to their various symptoms can be quite helpful. Organizing these signs and symptoms can help classify your headache and properly treat it.
All About Hemiplegic Migraine Headaches
If the symptoms preceding a migraine resemble those of stroke, such as dizziness, loss of motor control and one-sided paralysis, it's probably a a hemiplegic headache.
Sinus Headaches Probably Migraines - Sinuses...
If you've tried various over-the-counter sinus medications to relieve your sinus headaches to no avail, there may be a good reason: chances are you don't have a sinus headache at all. Nearly 9 in 10 people with sinus headache symptoms likely are suffering from Migraines.
Is There a Link Between Vitamin D Deficiency...
Learn how vitamin D deficiency may play a role in headaches
Coenzyme Q10 As a Migraine Preventive. About...
Migraineurs are always looking for methods to help prevent Migraine attacks. We would like to avoid medications as much as possible, and we're always concerned about the possible side effects. In a trial of coenzyme Q10, 61.3% of the patients treated had a greater than 50% reduction in number of days with Migraine. Less than 1% reported any side effects.
Fiorinal and Fioricet for Headache and...
Fioricet, Fiorinal, Fioricet with Codeine, and Fiorinal with Codeine are medications discussed quite frequently on our forums and in our chat room. These medications are both a source of relief to some and a source of problems to others. An article by Dr. Stephen Silberstein and Dr. Douglas McCrory in the December, 2001, issue of "Headache: the Journal of Head and Face Pain" provides a great deal of information, results of clinical trials, and the answers to many of our questions.
Topamax for Prevention: Proper Dosage from...
Topamax for Prevention: Proper Dosage, from About Headaches and Migraine. Topamax, aka topiramate, is an anti-epilepsy medication that has been showing significant success in the prevention of Cluster Headaches and Migraine attacks. Dr. Stephen Silberstein, who is working on the clinical trials, recently advised about the appropriate dosage and taper.
Temporal Arteritis and Headaches
Temporal arteritis and headaches go together quite commonly, but the two conditions are also very different. While headache can be a symptom of temporal arteritis, being able to distinguish between the two is very important in finding the most appropriate and effective treatments.
Anatomy of a Migraine: The Phases of a Migraine...
When many people think “migraine” they think only of the pain of migraine. In reality, a migraine episode consists of far more. The typical migraine episode actually consists of four parts, referred to as phases or components. It's important to note that not every migraineur experiences all four phases. Also, episodes can vary with different phases experienced during different episodes.
Migraine Aura
Many time migraine headaches are preceded by some sort of visual disturbance known as migraine auras. They usually occur anywhere from 20 minutes to 24 hours before the pain of a migraine starts. These symptoms typically last for anywhere from 10 to 25 minutes. There are times when the aura occurs without actual pain, and in these cases it is known as a migraine equivalent.
Dietary Supplements and Botanicals for Migraine...
In recent years, various alternative therapies have been touted for their ability to prevent or treat migraine headaches.
Teenager Dies from Acetaminophen Overdose
On June 24, 2003, 17-year-old Kellie Lynn McWilliams was suffering with pain from a Migraine attack and turned to Tylenol for pain relief. In pain and probably tired and groggy, Kellie took approximately 20 of the 500 mg acetaminophen capsules. That translates to ingesting 10 grams of acetaminophen; tha maximum recommended within 24 hours is four grams. This led to her death.
Hemicrania Continua Headaches
Hemicrania continua is a type of severe headache that occurs on one side of the head
When Kids Have Headaches
Kids can get headaches quite often, and usually they are harmless. Sometimes, though, a headache can signal something more serious.
What Is a Headache?
All headaches are not created equal, and understanding signs and symptoms of the various types of headaches will increase your ability to treat and cope with your particular condition.
How Sex May Relieve Migraine Pain
Headache-prone individuals may not not only have stronger libidos, but orgasm is a very effective pain reliever.
Headache and Migraine Glossary: Conjunctival...
Glossary of terms and abbreviations asssociated with Migraine disease, tension headaches, cluster headaches, and other head pain disorders. Also includes abbreviations used in writing prescriptions.
Over-the-Counter Headache Treatments
While migraines are annoying and at times disabling, treatment choices don’t have to be confusing. There are a number of treatments that are available over-the-counter (OTC). As with all headache treatments, be sure to discuss your intentions and concerns with your health care practitioner.
All About Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are common and have many different causes, and treatments. Learn more.
Exploding Eye: Cluster Headaches. The pain has...
They've caused their victims to pace the floor in agony, unable to lie down; literally bang their heads against a wall; even, on rare occasions, to commit suicide to escape the pain. They're cluster headaches -- shorter than Migraine, but often even more painful and debilitating. It's truth, not myth, that some sufferers have committed suicide to escape the pain.
Roller Coaster Headache — Literally! A...
Roller Coaster Headache — Literally! A reader shares her excruciating and frustrating experience.
Using Birth Control Pills to Prevent Menstrual...
A comprehensive article on factors that contribute to birth control use and migraines
New Daily Persistent Headaches
New daily persistent headaches may not be the most painful type of chronic daily headache.
Smoking and Headaches: Another Reason to Quit,...
We all know smoking isn't good for us. There are more reasons to quit when we realize it triggers more headaches, makes them harder to manage, and makes our headache treatments less effective.
Triptan Medications
The selective serotonin receptor agonists, or “triptans,” are a class of medications that the FDA first approved in late 1992. These medications were considered “miracle” drugs for migraine sufferers as they had the purported ability to abort, or stop, a migraine headache at its earliest signs.
Headache Humor
A headache is no laughing matter, but being able to laugh at a situation can sometimes make all the difference. Here are some headache-related jokes and humorous quotes to lighten your day. There are literally hundreds of variations on some of these jokes, but I tried to pick out the most appropriate to share here on About.com. Remember, the ability to laugh at one’s self can go a long way in promoting a healthy outlook on life.
Head Pain at Work? Check the Lighting. About...
If you find that you have more headaches and Migraines while at work, it may be the office lighting. Traditional office lighting generally presents two potential headache and Migraine triggers: glare from overhead incandescent lighting and flicker from fluorescent lighting tubes.
What Is Basilar-Type Migraine? from About...
If you've heard of this form of Migraine before, you've probably heard or seen it called Basilar Artery Migraine (BAM). A Basilar-Type Migraine is a Migraine that has aura symptoms originating from the brainstem and/or affecting both hemispheres of the brain at the same time, but with no motor weakness. It's frightening, and caution is needed in diagnosis and medications, but it's not as dangerous as it is frightening.
Headache and Migraine Glossary: Orbit
Glossary of terms and abbreviations asssociated with Migraine disease, tension headaches, cluster headaches, and other head pain disorders. Also includes abbreviations used in writing prescriptions.
Tylenol Use in Headaches
Acetaminophen is likely the most commonly used pain reliever today. It has long been touted as a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of pain, including headaches, whether you have migraines, tension headaches, or cluster headaches. Acetaminophen use comes with some risk, however, so understanding proper dosing and potential hazards is important. As always, discuss any medication uses or changes with your health care provider.
What Is Pseudotumor Cerebri, aka Idiopathic...
Simply speaking, Pseudotumor Cerebri is a condition in which the body either produces too much cerebrospinal fluid pressure or doesn't absorb it well, resulting in increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure. Pseudotumor cerebri literally means "false brain tumor" because it's symptoms mimic those of brain tumors.
Preventing Headaches
One of the most effective treatments for headache is preventing headaches before they start. Headaches can be triggered by a number of things, so understanding how to interrupt the cycle can be a huge benefit, and a wonderful way to improve your quality of life.
When To See Your Doctor for a Headache or...
Statistically, most headaches and Migraine attacks are painful and disruptive, but not dangerous. Still, head pain can be a symptom of other conditions, some serious. Even though many of us have been told, "A Migraine never killed anyone," that's not exactly true. There are cases where Migraines cause fatal strokes and times when a headache or Migraine attack means you need to see a doctor.
Headache and Migraine Glossary: Intractable...
Headache and Migraine Glossary: Intractable Migraine
Headache Warning Signs
The American Headache Society has a handy mnemonic device for remembering headache warning signs—reasons to call your doctor right away. All you have to do is remember to “SNOOP.”
You Can Heal Your Life from About,com Headaches...
In "You Can Heal Your Life," Louise Hay would have us believe that the cause of all illness and injury is psychological and spiritual. She has a list of conditions and, without mentioning consulting a physician, encourages readers to heal themselves. Most books have some redeeming content, but I cannot find it here.
Types of Headaches - A Visual Description
There are four main types of headaches: migraine, cluster, sinus, and tension. Understanding the typical distribution of pain for each type can help determine what types of headaches you are experiencing. As always, discuss your symptoms with a health care professional to receive proper care and treatment.
"Sinus Headache" May Be Migraine:...
"Sinus Headache" May Be Migraine: At the Annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology (May 9, 2001), the findings of a study conducted by The Headache Care Center in Springfield, Missouri were presented.* A startling 97% of the participants, self-described sinus headache sufferers, actually had symptoms consistent with migraine attacks as defined by the criteria of the International Headache Society.
Aromatherapy As a Complementary Therapy for...
Aromatherapy As a Complementary Therapy for Headaches and Migraine
Understanding Menstrual Migraine
An article that addresses the issues associated with migraines associated with the menstrual cycle and hormone changes
Status Migrainosus
Symptoms of Status Migrainosus The symptoms of status migrainosus are similar to whatever your "typical"
Medication Overuse Headache: When Meds Cause...
Unfortunately, it seems that any medication we take for headache or Migraine relief has the potential to cause medication overuse headache if used more than two or three days a week. We need to learn as much about it as possible. Let’s take a look at what causes it, how to avoid it, and other important issues.
Headache Symptoms
Headaches symptoms can vary greatly, being as unique as the headache sufferer. There are a number of very common symptoms, though that can help you determine which type of headache you are experiencing.
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan): Check Before You...
5-HTP is a potentially valuable dietary supplement that promotes the body's production of serotonin. For some people, it can be helpful for headache and Migraine prevention. However, it shouldn't be taken with triptans, SSRI's, or some other prescription medications. It's important to treat such supplements as you would any other drug.
Headache and Migraine Drug Profiles: Acetaminop...
Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone: Facts about today's drugs used to treat migraine and other headaches
Headaches and Migraines Quiz: Should you see...
Do you know when you should see your doctor for your headaches or Migraines? Take this quiz to see if you know when to see your doctor.
Dealing With Migraine Related Depression
An article that gives advice on how to deal with migraines and associated depression
Using Beta Blockers to Prevent Headaches
Most of us can effectively treat a headache when it comes on, but many people are now using beta blockers to prevent headaches, as well. Typically used to treat heart-related conditions, beta blockers may also be helpful for headache sufferers.
Headaches and Strokes
The relationship between headaches and strokes is a fairly complex one, but a connection that is worth exploring. Experiencing “the worst headache of your life” is one reason a patient should call his or her physician right away. Why can a severe headache be dangerous? What does it signify? To answer some of these questions it may be useful to learn briefly about strokes themselves.
Let's Study Kids' Head Pain; Symptoms,...
Let's Study Children's Head Pain: Diagnosing Children's Head Pain. Headaches may be symptoms of other physical conditions. For that reason, it is VITAL that they be properly diagnosed promptly and correctly so that they can be treated appropriately. Children's symptoms may be different than adults'. It can be especially difficult to diagnose children because they are often unable to communicate their symptoms and needs as well as adults.
DHE-45 Migraine Abortive - Headache and...
DHE-45 (dihydroergotamine mesylate, USP) injectable is for the acute treatment of Migraine with or without aura. Ergotamine preparations are non-triptan Migraine abortives. Injectable medications bypass the gastrointestinal tract, making it appropriate for patients who suffer from nausea and vomiting as a result of migraine, and who may therefore have difficulty with oral treatments.
The Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS)...
The Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) questionnaire was developed to measure the effect migraine headaches have on your daily function. It tries to determine how many days of your life were affected to the point that you were unable to function in a way to which you are accustomed. MIDAS takes into account the past three months when asking the questions.
Prescription Migraine Treatments
Typically, most migraine sufferers will try an over-the-counter medication first, but often they will end up needing some sort of prescription migraine treatment as well. Many of the abortive treatments available for headaches will treat not only migraines, but other headache types as well. However, there are a number of specific prescription migraine treatments available. As with all treatments for migraines, be sure to discuss questions and concerns you may have with your health care provider.
Headache Treatments
There are many, many headache treatment, as evidenced by the abundance of advertisements on radio and television, in magazines, and on the internet. What works well for one person may or may not work well for another, so it is a good thing there are so many choices. Here is an overview of some of the treatments being used for headaches.
Triptans: Overview and Profiles -- About...
Triptans: Overview and Profiles. December 28, 1992, marked a new era for Migraine and Cluster sufferers. The FDA approved the first of a class of medications that many Migraineurs would come to call "miracle drugs." That drug was the injectable form of sumatriptan (Imitrex, Imigran), the first of the triptans. There are now seven triptans available, increasing the options for us to find at least one that will abort our Migraines and cluster headaches.
Disability: When Migraines Stop You, Info on...
Aplying for disability beneifts is neither a simple process nor a short one. People with migraines face the additional challenge that migraine is an invisible disability with no difinitive diagnostic tests. Don't give up though. More Migraineurs are being approved, some of them on the first attempt, which is unusual for any disability application.
Migraines and Sex
Although the topic of sex and migraines have been the source of countless bad jokes, the combination is no laughing matter to individuals who actually experience sex-related headaches.
Celebrex: Headache and Migraine Drug Profiles.
Celebrex® (celecoxib): Profile of medications used today to treat Migraine disease and headaches. Potential medication interactions, potential side effects, precautions, brand names, other information.
Sumatriptan (Imitrex) Safe During Pregnancy?
GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturer of sumatriptan (Imitrex, Imigran) set up a registry in 1996 to gather data regarding prenatal exposure to sumatriptan. After seven years of gathering data, a report was recently presented at the 11th Congress of the International Headache Society (IHS). Although not yet conclusive, the results are encouraging.
Celexa: Headache and Migraine Drug Profiles.
Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide): Profile of medications used today to treat Migraine disease and headaches. Potential medication interactions, potential side effects, precautions, brand names, other information.
Types of Headaches and Migraines - Headaches...
Whenever people talk about or look for information regarding Migraine disease and headaches, one of the most commonly asked questions is, "What is...?" What is Hemiplegic Migraine? What are ice pick headaches? Let's take a look!
Vestibular Migraine Headaches
Migraine headaches that are associated with episodes of vertigo are known as vestibular migraine headaches. These are relatively uncommon, but very debilitating headaches.
Headaches and Depression
Though there seems to be a connection between headaches, especially migraine headaches, and depression, researchers are still unsure as to what accounts for this linkage.
Ask the Clinician with Dr. John Claude Krusz...
Ask the Clinician with Dr. John Claude Krusz and Teri Robert for About Headaches and Migraine: Question and Answer #12 for 12/05/05. Answers to reader questions about headaches and Migraine disease.
Keeping a Headache and Migraine Diary greatly...
One of the most helpful tools for you and your doctors is a Headache and Migraine Diary. It will be useful to track triggers, the effectiveness of medications, and any patterns to your headaches. There are many ways to do this, but for the purpose of your doctor reviewing it, printed pages are usually preferable to a bound journal. We have a diary ready for you to print our download to use on your own computer.
Acephalgic Silent Migraines - What Is...
Many people are confused by the terms acephalgic and silent Migraine. That's partly because those terms are descriptive terms rather than diagnostic. Simply put, an acephalgic Migraine is a Migraine without a headache.
What is a Migraine Seizure?
A migraine seizure is an epileptic seizure that follows a migraine with aura. Learn more about migraine seizures.
Primary Headaches
Primary headaches are those that exist independent from any other medical condition. This is in contrast to secondary headaches that are a result of an underlying medical issue or condition. The International Headache Society has classified over 150 different types of headaches, both primary and secondary. Here is a list of some of the more common primary headaches.
What is HeadOn? Does HeadOn Really Work?
HeadOn is an over-the-counter alternative remedy for headaches. It comes in a roll-on applicator that looks like an oversized tube of lip balm and is applied to the forehead. Television commercials have increased HeadOn's popularity, but what exactly is it? Does HeadOn actually help ease headaches? Learn more about HeadOn.
Dehydration: What a Pain! from About.com...
The human body is 65% water. Simply put, dehydration occurs as the result of excessive loss of water from the body, when we lose more water than we take in. Learning to prevent and to recognize dehydration are essential. Don't let dehydration ruin your fun or make you more ill. Remember to take in as much fluid as you're losing each day.
Migraines, not really "headaches."...
A very common ongoing topic of discussion among Migraineurs is the dilemma of family, friends, and co-workers not understanding how debilitating Migraine can be. How do we help those closest to us understand that a Migraine isn't anything like the headaches they may have experienced, that we often can't just pop a pill and keep going? By helping them realize that Migraines are not headaches.
Maxalt (rizatriptan) Full Profile. from About...
Maxalt (rizatriptan) is a triptan, a Migraine abortive drug. Many people find that their Migraines stop completely after they take rizatriptan. Other people find that their Migraines are much less painful, and that they are able to go back to their normal activities even though their Migraines are not completely gone. Rizatriptan often relieves symptoms that occur together with Migraine pain, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound.
Headache Triggers
Headache triggers vary widely, and no one person experiences headaches the same way as another. There are very common triggers, however, and learning to anticipate problems before they start is a great way to prevent headaches.
I Smell a Migraine
Learn how odor and smell can trigger a migraine or be a symptom of a migraine attack.
Review: Thera-Med Cold Pack Headache Band
Whether you're lying down, working at the office, or chasing a toddler around the house, the Thera-Med Cold Pack Headache Band can work for you. With a velcro strap closure, it's easy to hold in place and light enough to be comfortable.
What Is Abdominal Migraine? from About...
Abdominal Migraine is a form of Migraine seen mainly in children. It's most common in children ages five- to nine-years-old, but can occur in adults as well. Abdominal Migraine consists primarily of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Let's take a look at abdominal Migraine.
Persistent Aura without Infarction
There are a number of rare complications of migraines, and Persistent Aura without Infarction (PAWI) is one of them. As the name suggests, migraine aura is a necessary feature of PAWI. Not a lot is known about PAWI, but there are a few treatments that can be used.
Sinus Headaches
Many people have what they call “sinus headaches,” but it turns out the majority of them may actually have migraine headaches instead. True sinus headaches are more uncommon, and result from an underlying condition such as sinusitis or allergies. The lining of the sinuses get inflamed and painful, and eventually they may become clogged. This blockage adds to the pressure and pain felt in the sinus.
Excedrin Migraine
excedrin migraine migraine headaches public health service otc drug migraine attacks: FDA information on Excedrin Migraine approval
Depakote and Migraine Prevention
For those with severe migraines, knowing a bit about Depakote and the other preventative treatments can come in quite handy. Depkote was originally developed as an anticonvulsant medication used to treat seizure disorder, but it has also been approved for use in preventing migraines.
Midrin (isometheptene, dichloralphenazone,...
Midrin is used to treat Migraine attacks and tension headaches. It should be taken only after headache pain begins, or after a warning sign that a Migraine is coming appears. Isometheptene helps to relieve throbbing headaches, but it is not an ordinary pain reliever. Dichloralphenazone helps you to relax, and acetaminophen relieves pain.
SSDI or SSI? What are the differences and...
The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. There is often confusion about which of these programs is most appropriate for an individual. Let's take a look at the basics about both programs.
Headache Types
There are a variety of headache types, including migraine headaches, cluster headaches, sinus headaches, and tension headaches. Each of these are due to very different causes, but all of them can be very troublesome. Understanding the distribution of pain and characteristics of each headache type will help you properly assess and treat your condition.
Medications for Headache and Migraine...
For those of us with frequent headaches or Migraine attacks, preventive medications are often a good option. There are over 100 medications that can be used and nearly endless combinations of them. The list is ever-evolving, and will this one will be updated regularly.
Will Smoking Trigger a Headache?
Smoking can cause a wide variety of health issues, and headaches seem to be one of them. Nicotine in tobacco products causes blood vessels to constrict, possibly leading to vascular spasm and migraines. Smoking may also directly stimulate nerves in the back of the throat, leading to head pain.
All About Menstrual Migraines
Many women suffer from migraine headaches during menstruation.
Review: Migra-Cap. from About Headaches and...
Tension headaches, Migraine attacks, cluster headaches... People who suffer with any type of head pain tend to have one thing in common. Many of them find comfort and, sometimes, pain relief in the use of cold therapy. Some of us will go to great lengths to devise cold packs that cover the areas we want covered. The Migra-Cap may be the answer to the search for those who have wanted to pretty much cover their heads with ice.
Butalbital Meds Rebound: Breaking the Cycle...
Medications containing butalbital with either acetaminophen or aspirin, usually with caffeine, are some of the most commonly prescribed medications for headaches and Migraine attacks. Unfortunately, overuse of these meds often leads to rebound headaches. Specialists suggest that oral Phenobarbital loading can be used to safely withdraw these medications.
Sinus Headaches - Description
Sinus headaches occur when the sinuses become inflamed or congested. Many people believe they are suffering from sinus headaches when they are in fact experiencing migraine headaches. Sinus headaches are often accompanied by symptoms such as nasal drainage, fever, congestion, or facial pain.
What Is Hemicrania Continua? from About...
Hemicrania continua is considered a primary headache disorder, meaning that it's not caused by another condition. Fortunately, it is a rare but treatable disorder. According to the International Headache Society's (IHS) International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd Edition, hemicrania continua is a "persistent strictly unilateral headache responsive to indomethacin."
Amitriptyline: Headache and Migraine Drug...
Amitriptyline: Profile of medications used today to treat Migraine disease and headaches. Potential medication interactions, potential side effects, precautions, brand names, other information.
What Is New Daily Persistent Headache? from...
In the last few years, New Daily Persistent Headache (NDPH) has been recognized as a distinct primary headache syndrome. It is characterized by continuous daily head pain, varying in intensity, and sometimes accompanied by Migrainous symptoms. It's important that NDPH be diagnosed carefully and correctly after ruling out other conditions that can present the same symptoms.
Antiemetics
Profiles on antiemetic drugs used to relieve the nausea, vomiting, and pain of headaches.
Noni Juice: A Miracle (?) "Cure" from...
Look around online much and you'll see it: Tahitian Noni Juice is being touted to increase energy, lessen allergy symptoms, improve asthma, promote weight loss, improve arthritis and diabetes, decreasing pain (including headache and Migraien) and to lessen symptoms of cancer, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, stoke, and even AIDS.ƒTSound to good to be true? Then it probably is. If someone claims to have a "cure," exercise the utmost caution.
Headache and Migraine Glossary: Phonophobia
Glossary of terms asssociated with Migraine disease; tension headaches, cluster headaches, and other head pain disorders. Definition of Phonophobia.
Quiz: Match the Symptoms to the Head Pain Type;...
Quiz: Match the Symptoms to the Head Pain Type. Take this quiz to find out how what you know and learn what you don't.
Serotonin Syndrome
Serotonin Syndrome is an extremely dangerous condition that is usually caused by an adverse reaction to some medication. It can be the result of medication interactions, overdose, or even therapeutic use. There are numerous drugs used to treat headaches that can cause Serotonin Syndrome so headache sufferers would be wise to learn more about this potentially life-threatening condition.
Migraine Triggers
Certain things can trigger migraine headaches. Knowing your migraine triggers can help you possibly prevent or lessen the severity of a migraine.
Over-the-Counter Treatments for Headaches
Although some headaches may require the firepower of a prescription drug, others respond to basic over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, which have the advantage of being readily available and relatively inexpensive. Their use — plus the use of other interventions, depending on the type of headache you have — may help ease your pain.
Anatomy of a Cluster Headache from About...
For those who have experienced them, cluster headaches are the most painful headache anyone can have. The pain has been described as "boring," "tearing," or "burning." Analogies also are used, such as "a hot poker in the eye", or as if "the eye is being pushed out."ƒU Anyone who has ever had a cluster headache has no doubt what they are. It's no exaggeration to say that the pain and desperation of cluster headaches have actually led to suicides.
Migraines and the Weather
Turns out that weather conditions can sometimes have a strong impact on migraines and headaches.
Vascular Headaches
Migraine and cluster headaches are two types of headaches. Each is characterized by an involvement of blood vessels in the brain and/or skull.
Caffeine and Headaches
Caffeine and headaches have long gone hand-in-hand, but it is not always clear how the two relate. On the one hand, caffeine withdrawal is a source of headache, among other symptoms; and on the other hand, it is also found in many headache relievers. So how do the two relate, and should you be using caffeine or cutting it out of your life?
Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn): Headache and...
Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn): Profile of medications used today to treat Migraine disease and headaches. Potential medication interactions, potential side effects, precautions, brand names, other information.
Cerebral Aneurysms
A cerebral aneurysm is a “weak spot” in an artery in the brain. This weakness allows the vessel to balloon outward and fill with blood, possibly leading to pressure on a nerve or brain tissue near the aneurysm. Aneurysms can also leak or rupture, causing blood to spill into the surrounding tissue (hemorrhage). What causes them and how do they relate to headaches? c
The Agony of Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches cause potent pain and can last weeks or months, often striking with such regularity that they can be predicted with pinpoint accuracy by those who endure them.
Acetaminophen and Oxycodone - Headache and...
Acetaminophen and Oxycodone: Profile of medications used today to treat Migraine disease and headaches. Potential medication interactions, potential side effects, precautions, brand names, other information.
Propranolol (Inderal, etc.): Headache and...
Propranolol (Inderal, etc.): Profile of medications used today to treat Migraine disease and headaches. Potential medication interactions, potential side effects, precautions, brand names, other information. Inderal is a beta blocker, originally developed for heart disease and hypertension. It is now also approved by the FDA for Migraine prevention.
Pregnancy Medication Categories
The FDA requires manufacturers to label all medications with one of five pregnancy medication categories. These categories provide a way to classify the risk of taking each medication during pregnancy. While no medication is completely safe, this is a way for patients and healthcare providers to make educated decisions about whether to use a medication or not during pregnancy.
PFO: A hole in the heart affecting Migraine?...
A major topic of discussion today is that of PFO, 'the hole in the heart' that may contribute to Migraines. Migraineurs are asking their doctors to test them for PFO. Many with PFO want to have it repaired . However, the closure procedure is not being performed on the basis of Migraine disease because it has not yet been proven effective. Trials are underway for more study of PFO and Migraine.
The Family and Medical Leave Act: What Is a...
The Family and Medical Leave Act: What Is a Serious Health Condition?
A Mother's Plea: The Dangers of Acetaminophen...
A 17-year-old girl from Oklahoma turned to Tylenol for Migraine relief, accidentally took too much, and paid for that accident with her life. Since then, her mother has been working diligently to educate people that over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol can be every bit as dangerous as prescription medications. She also wants to encourage people to become organ donors.
Midrin or Imitrex? A recent study compared...
Midrin or Imitrex? A recent study compared Midrin and Imitrex taken at first sign of attack and concluded that Midrin may have a slight advantage in early treatment of mild-to-moderate migraine.
It's a Headache, Isn't It? Diagnosis of Head...
Sometimes, a headache is just that - a headache. Other times, a headache can be a symptom of another condition. In addition, there are different kinds of headaches, and treatments for them vary. For these reasons, timely and accurate diagnosis is important if not critical.
Quiz: Test Your Headache and Migraine...
Quiz: Test Your Headache and Migraine Vocabulary. Take this quiz to find out how good your vocabulary is.
Acetazolzmide (Diamox): Headache and Migraine...
Acetazolamide is used to reduce pressure in the eye to treat glaucoma. Also used to treat the symptoms of altitude sickness, reduce edema, and control the seizures of certain types of epilepsy. It is often used to treat Pseudotumor Cerebri, aka Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension, which can trigger headaches and Migraines.
Pregnancy and Migraine Disease from About...
Nearly 33 million Americans suffer from migraine, and the majority of those are women. It stands to reason that many women in their childbearing years will suffer from migraine disease. What does a pregnant mother-to-be do to treat her disease?
Head Pain: NOT To Be Ignored. "Better safe...
Migraine and the degree to which it increases risk of stroke is a topic on which expert opinions vary. There is, however, agreement that migraine does increase the risk, and that status migrainousus increases the risk even further. If you're having the "worst Migraine of your life" or your Migraine pain has gone more than 72 hours with less that a solid four hours pain-free while awake, be safe and check it out.

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