Headaches can be either a nuisance or a debilitating health issue. There are a number of degrees between the different types of headaches. Some can start slowly, while others occur very suddenly. Regardless of how bad it is, people often want a solution immediately. There area number of ways that chiropractors can help treat and alleviate the symptoms of the different kinds of headaches.
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are some of the most common headaches that everyone experiences. They occur when the scalp and neck muscles become too tense. The contraction occurs when you’re stressed, depressed, have a head injury, or suffer from anxiety. They can happen at any age, but adults and older teens are the most likely to suffer from tension headaches. Activities that cause you to hold your head in one position without moving for a long time can lead to tension headaches. It is also common for those who spend a lot of time on the computer.
You might also notice tension headaches can happen if you have one of the following triggers: Fatigue or overexertion Eye strain Physical or emotional stress Caffeine Colds or sinus infections Teeth Grinding Jaw Clenching Excessive Smoking Chiropractors can help solve tension headaches because the two upper cervical vertebrae can be manipulated. The adjustment will help create long-lasting relief as well as immediate relief for tension headaches. The adjustments to the cervical and thoracic spine can create incredible relief.
Migraine Headaches
Though migraine headaches are not as common as other kinds of headaches like tension headaches, they are often more painful. This causes people to attribute any headache pain to migraines. Migraines can last up to 72 hours with sensitivity to light, nausea, and even pulsating pain. People often make it worse when they try to go about their normal day. This can cause them to suffer from neurological symptoms like auras.
The auras are visual disturbances that can signal an oncoming migraine. Migraines aren’t fully understood, though it seems that environmental factors and genetics can play a role in whether you get migraines or tension headaches. Some physicians are also studying the place of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the onset of migraines. Migraines can be triggered by: Hormonal changes (particularly in women) Weather changes Sleep changes Intense physical exertion Medications like vasodilators Foods or food additives Sensory stimuli Stress Drinks including alcohol and caffeine
Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches can be a different experience than tension headaches and migraines. Only 1% of the population experiences cluster headaches. Most of the people who suffer from cluster headaches are women. It creates incredible pain around the eyes and the side of the head. It can last anywhere between 15 minutes and 3 hours. They can occur up to 8 times in a day. Those who experience cluster headaches may feel sweating, nasal congestion, and tearing.
The intense pain can cause sufferers to be restless or agitated. The cause of cluster headaches is currently unknown, though some experts believe it can be caused by the body’s biological clock. If there are abnormalities in the hypothalamus, you may experience cluster headaches. They aren’t provoked by triggers like stress or foods.
However, drinking alcohol after a cluster headache has begun can trigger more intense pain. If you suffer from cluster headaches, it is also important to see a specialist to rule out other disorders. Headaches can indicate an underlying medical condition like tumors ni the brain or weakened blood vessels. It is also important to take the history of your headaches into consideration. See your physician if you notice pattern changes or if they feel different.
Will A Chiropractor in Birmingham Alabama Find the Source of Your Headache
Though your chiropractor might not be able to determine the source of the headaches right away, they may be able to help identify what is triggering it. Once they understand the trigger, they will be able to provide an adjustment that could relieve the pain and other symptoms of headaches. Creating an alignment of the spine can help reduce the stress put on the nervous system.
This can help reduce stress and tension in the body, preventing headache pains. It can also help improve chronic pain, which may reduce the number of headaches you will experience. They may also provide an evaluation of your posture, lifestyle, and exercises, to encourage you to relax and reduce stress.
Conclusion
If you’re suffering from tension headaches, cluster headaches, or migraines and you’re ready to find a solution, make sure you call us today! We can help at 205-637-1363.
