Whether due to stress or hereditary, headaches are a common daily occurrence that can affect anyone, even medical specialists, neurologists.
«A headache is any pain that affects the head, upper face or upper neck. Headaches are called ”primary” when they result from biological changes in the brain itself.», said Robert Kaniecki, director of the UPMC Headache Center in Pittsburgh. «These include migraines, severe headaches and persistent headaches.».
Headaches caused by migraine cause additional symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and noise, fatigue, visual disturbances and others. People may also experience «secondary» headaches if there is another underlying disease or cause for the headache, explains Robert Kaniecki.
Worldwide, headache disorders are considered one of the most common disorders of the nervous system. In addition, a 2018 study found that one in six people in the United States reported having a migraine or severe headache within three months.
Neurologists explained how they themselves deal with headaches.
We find a place that calms us down
Creating a quiet and relaxing environment is often the first step some neurologists take to relieve a headache.
«If I have a headache, I rest or lie down as much as I can, and regardless of the time of day», says British neurologist Faye Begetti.
«Particularly with migraines, people usually find that they need to lie down in a quiet, dark room.».
We don't think about it
Due to our busy daily schedule, a quick siesta is not always possible. Rami Burstein, professor of anesthesiology and neuroscience at Harvard Medical School, explained that he tends to do things that relax him when he doesn't have time to ”close his eyes for a moment” and calm down.
«As much as it sounds like it's not, a walk or a book can be helpful.».
We find out what causes our headache
This will help us deal with the pain.
Most of the migraines I have are caused by either something I saw or something I have to deal with that causes me tension. The latter is a little harder to control,» said Nashville Neuroscience Group director and founder Jan Lewis Brandis.
«Red wine can give me a headache, so I'm careful not to drink too much.».
Furthermore, a common cause of headache is sleep disorders. There is a misconception that headaches are mainly caused by sleep deprivation, but Faye Begetti explained that keeping a consistent sleep schedule may be more important than the length of sleep each night.
Immediate hydration
Many neurologists pay more attention to what they drink when they experience a headache. As simple as it sounds, water is our best friend when we have a headache or migraine.
West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute assistant professor at West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute who specializes in headaches, Christina Lopez, said her headaches are usually a sign that she needs to increase her hydration. Although, as she explained, researchers aren't entirely sure why drinking water relieves headaches (there are a number of theories), it is an «inexpensive and safe prevention and treatment strategy.».
«I finally took my own advice and started sleeping eight hours consistently and drinking more water,» Lopez said. «It's amazing how much better I feel.».
A little coffee can't hurt
Although it may seem contradictory, caffeine may actually be a cure for headaches. Jan Lewis Brandes said the first thing she does is drink a cup of coffee and then a glass of water, along with painkillers.
Caffeine causes blood vessels to narrow and restricts blood flow around the brain, which can relieve pain. However, moderation is the key: Regular caffeine consumption can have the opposite effect, leading to headaches if we stop drinking it in the morning.
Eat several small meals during the day
Another tip from Robert Kaniecki to eat several small meals during the day.
This is because low blood sugar can make headaches worse, along with migraine symptoms.
We take painkillers
Depending on the severity of her headache, Faye Begetti takes painkillers. Limit the monthly dose to ten days a month to avoid headaches from overuse of medication.
If you are experiencing more severe pain or symptoms, it may be worth a visit to a neurologist to see if you can benefit from prescription medication.
The exogenous factors
There are cases where the headache is due to hereditary factors.
The headache can range from mild to debilitating. Trying neurologist-approved treatments until we find the one that works specifically for us can help relieve our pain in the long run. Establishing a consistent routine at home is vital to effectively treating these conditions.
«It is important to ”listen” to our body. I find that a headache can subside and definitely (listening to our body) prevents it from getting worse,” says Faye Begetti.
