Headache is the pain sensation felt in the head. While it is not life-threatening, it is considered one of the most uncomfortable conditions in people. Due to pain and discomfort, it puts negative impact to people’s activities of daily living. The following are the causes, symptoms, and remedies of headache.
Causes
The causes of headache depend on its type, which can be primary or secondary. According to Mayo Clinic, a primary headache is primarily due to overactivity, lifestyle, or problems with the pain-sensitive head structures and it is not a symptom of an underlying medical condition. On the other hand, a secondary headache is a disease symptom, which impacts the pain-sensitive structure in the head, such as the nerves.
As per the publication, primary headaches may be due to lack of sleep or changes in sleep patterns; alcohol, skipped meals, foods like processed meats, poor posture, and stress. In the contrary, the potential causes of secondary headaches are acute sinusitis, arterial tears, blood clot, brain aneurysm, brain tumor, carbon monoxide poisoning, concussion, dehydration, dental problems, ear infection, encephalitis, glaucoma, hangovers, high blood pressure, flu, hematoma, meningitis, monosodium glutamate or MSG, pain medication overuse, pain attacks, pressure from headgear like helmet or goggles, stroke, toxoplasmosis, and nerve irritation, such as trigeminal neuralgia.
Signs and Symptoms
Headache presents several signs and symptoms. According to Web MD, they include pounding and throbbing sensation that impacts the head area, which may also shift sides from one to another; sensitivity to light, smell, and noise; blurred vision; nausea; vomiting; stomach upset; abdominal pain; loss of appetite; warm and cold sensations; pallor (paleness); fatigue; dizziness; aura, or bright flashing dots or lights, wavy or jagged lines, and blind spots; and fever, which is rare.
Home Remedies
While pain medications do their job in relieving headache, the following home remedies are also advised to manage the painful condition.
Cayenne
One remedy for headache is cayenne. According to Everyday Roots, cayenne, which is one of the spices people have today, stands as one of the natural remedies for pain and inflammation treatment. As per the publication, cayenne has capsaicin, which inhibits the actions of substance P, an agent that causes pain. Also, several studies, such as one in 1998, found that people experienced a consideration reduction in the severity of the headache when cayenne was applied topically to the nares or nasal passages.
To prepare, as per the publication, the person needs one-fourth teaspoon of cayenne powder, four ounces of warm water, and cotton swabs. Half teaspoon of cayenne powder is diluted in four ounces of warm water. Then, a cotton swab is soaked in the solution and is applied gently to the inside of each nostril. Since it is a spice, it is expected to feel a warm sensation in the nares, an indication of its potency.
Lavender Oil
When it comes to oils, lavender oil is one of those that can relieve headache. According to Everyday Health, it is a useful remedy for both headache and migraine. The person just has to inhale it or applied it on the skin. The publication suggests two to four drops for every two to three cups of boiling water. Also, lavender oil can be applied topically, even without diluting it; however, it should not be taken by mouth.
Vitamin B
Another way to counter headache is thru vitamin B. According to Dr. Axe’s official website, vitamin B helps in the formation of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which is lacking in people with migraine. In a study, as cited by the publication, it was found that the participants who took the B vitamin reported significantly reduced levels of personal strain and totally lower episodes of confusion and depressed mood. As per the publication, the study outcome also indicated that vitamin B stood as an economical treatment for stress and psychological strain.
Headache may not be a definite threat to life; however, it may be a presentation of a more serious and underlying medical disorder. Hence, frequent headache should be taken into consideration and monitored. Along with possible remedies and pain relievers, medical consult may be necessary for proper assessment, history, planning, intervention, education, and evaluation.
