Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Chronic Headaches

Chronic headaches can be debilitating to long-term sufferers. While most headaches are caused by treatable conditions, some chronic headaches may be a symptom of a more serious condition.


Migraines


Migraines are caused by an excess of blood flow to the brain. They can be triggered by many things including, bright lights, lack of sleep, food allergies and more. Treatment of migraine headaches usually includes pain medication (including prescription medication), laying in a quiet and dark place and a cool washcloth over the forehead.


Tension Headaches


Tension headaches are caused by tensing muscles in the neck and jaw as a result of stress. Relaxation techniques, muscle relaxers and pain medication are often effective at treating tension headaches.


TMJ Headaches


The TMJ muscle is located near your ear at the intersection of the upper and lower jawbone. Tension in the TMJ muscle can result in teeth grinding, muscle tension and jaw dislocation, which can cause chronic headaches. A dentist or TMJ specialist must be consulted for TMJ headaches.


Blood Sugar Headaches


Blood-sugar headaches can occur when it has been too long of a time between meals, causing low blood sugar, or when you eat a high-sugar diet, causing high blood sugar. Frequent blood sugar headaches may require a blood test to check to diabetes or hypoglycemia.


Sleep Headaches








Not getting enough sleep can trigger tension headaches and migraines. The best cure for sleep headaches is getting a good night's sleep as soon as possible.


Dehydration Headaches


A headache can be triggered by dehydration; many people are chronically dehydrated. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day and avoiding sugary fluids such as soda will help prevent dehydration headaches.

Tags: blood sugar, chronic headaches, headaches caused, pain medication, tension headaches