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Headache

Headache is one of the common complaints in teenagers attending clinics. What causes headache? infections, tension and migraine

Headache is one of the common complaints in teenagers attending clinics.

What causes headache?

  • Infections
  • Tension headache
  • Migraine
  • Bleeding in the brain and surrounding structures
  • Tumor in the brain
  • Dental problems:
    • Tooth abscess
    • Infected gum
  • Eye problems:
    • Eye strain
  • Ear, Nose and Throat problems:
  • Infection of the sinus (Sinusitis)
  • Ear Infection
  • Psychosomatic disorder

What are common causes of headache?

  • Migraine
  • Tension

What is the difference between headaches due to stress and migraines?

History
Tension Headache
Migraine
Family History
  • Nil
  • May be present
Nature of the pain
  • Dull ache or like a pressure sensation, distracting but not debilitating
  • Intense, pounding, throbbing and debilitating
Sites of the pain
  • Both sides of head, over forehead and temples
  • One side / both sides of head
Frequency of attacks
  • Almost daily
  • Gets worst in the afternoon/evening
  • In episodes
Aggravating / precipitating factors
  • Stress
  • Skipping meals
  • Stress
  • Foods like chocolate, cheese, caffeine, orange, tomato and pickled or marinated food
  • Bright light and sun glare
  • Unusual smells
  • Before or after menses
Associated Symptoms / features
  • Lightheadedness, tiredness, neck pain, perfectionist
  • Nausea, vomiting, irritability

How to treat these headaches?

Mode of Treatments
Tension Headache
Migraine
Medications
  • Painkillers
  • Painkillers
  • Anti – vomiting drugs
  • Drugs to prevent recurrence frequent attacks
Other measures
  • Relax by lying down
  • Apply cold packs
  • Massage your neck and shoulder
  • Sleep in a quiet dark room
  • Apply cold packs
  • Avoid coffee, tea or orange juice
  • Do not read or watch television during the attack

How to prevent or reduce frequency of attacks?

Mode of Treatments
Tension Headache
Migraine
Lifestyle Modifications
  • Learn to relax
  • Be realistic in life
  • Be assertive
  • Learn to control your anger
  • Manage your time well
  • Avoid known triggering factors
  • Learn how to manage stress and relax
  • Practice regular meals, exercise and good sleep hygiene

What are the danger signs of headache?

If you have these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately:

  • A headache after head injury
  • A headache accompanied by fever, vomiting, neck stiffness, blurred vision and weakness of the limbs
  • A headache that does not go away with usual painkillers
  • A headache worsened by coughing, sneezing and straining
Last Reviewed : 28 August 2020
Content Writer : Dr. Salmiah bt. Md. Sharif
Reviewer : Dr. Nazhatussima bt. Suhaili

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