Severe Headaches or Migraines. A Warning Sign.

Migraines or headaches are one of the most common disorders of the nervous system, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

We are going to note the following:

1.- Tension Headache.

It is the most frequent headache commonly suffered by women at any age, it is described as a ‘crushing headache’, that starts as a light pain which can progress to moderate pain, and can appear in women before or after menstruation and during stressful periods. The majority of migraines fall under this category.

2.- Migraine or Headache.

It is a headache, usually located in one half of the head, and it is almost always coupled with eye watering. Light sensibility, vomiting, etc. can accompany the pain, which can last hours or even days and that worsens through exercise. It is most commonly found in young women and a family history is mostly present.

3.- Cluster Headache.

Most commonly suffered by young men, it also falls into the category of migraines; they do not last long and can be repeated throughout the day and the years. It is centred in one half of the head, including the eye of the affected side of the head.

4.- Sinusitis. 

The symptoms that would set them apart from other types of migraines would be:
• The presence of a prior infection.
• An increase of pain after probing the frontal sinuses.
(on top of the eyebrows and the cheeks).
• If the person has a fever.
• If the pain increases when it goes down to the head.

It is very important to know that if it were coupled with inflammation in the eye bags, then it would be a complication named ‘Orbital Cellulitis’ which is a medical emergency. This symptom has to always be taken into account when it comes to children.

5.- Hypertension.

I would like to note that the headache that emerges in people that suffer from hypertension, eventhough no symptoms are present most of the time for this pathology, there are other instances whereby severe headaches throughout the head or centered in the neck; a hypertensive crisis is sometimes denoted but in the other occasions, it can be the symptom that is masked via the continued intake of painkillers.

Migraines are an important pathology that comprises of an extensive field of exploration, because of that it is essential to complete a correct diagnosis so that a suitable treatment is put in place.

Dr J. Hurtado Martínez                                                                                                   Medical Director of HealthSalus