Painful Headaches And Its Treatment

Headaches are common but usually do not represent a serious illness. Even when headaches do not have a serious cause, they may be quite painful and disrupt your daily activities.

There are many different causes of headache. The pain in different types of headache varies in intensity, location, and duration. Another important feature that helps distinguish among different types of headache is the quality of the pain: whether it is sharp, dull, constant, intermittent, or pounding. Additional symptoms may accompany a headache such as dizziness, numbness or weakness, changes in vision, difficulty with balance, eye, ear, or ****** pain, cold symptoms, and even fever

All these factors help determine whether or not a headache needs emergency treatment. Ultimately, the cause of the headache determines the best treatment. Headache can affect anyone, of any race, socioeconomic status, age, and gender. Stress and anxiety are reported to trigger some peoples headaches. Others find no apparent reason for theirs.

The most common types of headache are known as tension-type, while the next most common are called migraine. What most people consider to be a mild headache is most often tension-type headache or a mix of tension-type and migraine.

Headache is caused by irritation or injury to pain-sensing structures of the head. The structures that can sense pain include the scalp, the muscles of the neck and head, major arteries and veins in the head, the sinuses, and the tissues that surround the brain.

Headache may occur when these structures suffer compression, spasm, tension, inflammation, or irritation. The brain has no nerve endings so the brain itself cannot “hurt.”

Research into the mechanisms of various headache types continues, and new theories arise frequently. Specifically, the causes of mild tension-type headache are not completely understood, and debate continues regarding the cause.

A common theory involves nerve endings in the head that are irritated by tight muscles in the neck, face, and scalp, along with irritation to the arteries and veins nearby. The events that trigger mild headache vary widely among people who get headaches. Each person seems to have his or her own pattern.

Common headache triggers stress, before, during, or after menstruation, muscle tension in the back and neck, exhaustion, hunger, and medications (Many drugs designed to relieve pain can actually cause headache when the drug is stopped after a period of prolonged use.)

Other causes of headache include household hazards such as carbon monoxide poisoning: If the headaches are recurrent or worse each morning or if more than 1 person in the household experiences the same type of headache, there may be an excessive level of carbon monoxide in the air.

Carbon monoxide poisoning comes from faulty heaters or stoves that do not have proper exhaust to the outside of the house. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, leave the building immediately and do not return until the levels of carbon monoxide are checked.

Headache associated with eye pain and vomiting: These headaches often indicate an eye disease called glaucoma and warrant immediate medical attention, or vision can be permanently harmed. Headache that occurs with neck stiffness or pain, light sensitivity, fever, and confusion: These types of headaches could mean meningitis. This is a true medical emergency and needs immediate attention.

Mild headache symptoms are unlikely to need immediate medical attention. These mild symptoms include mild head pain that is aching, squeezing, or band like, on both sides of the head, generally above the level of the eyebrows.

These headaches can occur often and may appear at predictable times. People who have these types of mild headache often know the triggers and symptoms of their headaches in great detail, because the pattern repeats itself for each episode.

Common headache types include tension-type headache is thought to be the most common headache type. It occurs more often in women than in men. Attacks can be occasional or more frequent. Symptoms include tight, or pressing, mild to moderate head pain, which may be on both sides.

Migraine is the second most common headache type. These are classified according to whether or not they include an aura (a visual disturbance, weakness, or numbness that occurs 1-2 hours before the onset of the headache). Migraines with this aura are called classic, while those without are called common. Migraine is more common in women than men. It is often one-sided, throbbing, of moderate to severe intensity. The headache may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light.

Cluster headache is a less common headache that occurs in men more often than women. With a cluster headache, there is intense pain that is generally on one side and located around the eye or temple.

A bloodshot eye, tearing, runny nose, and eyelid drooping or swelling on the same side of the face may also occur. The headaches tend to occur in “clusters,” sometimes daily or every few days over a period of weeks to months. After such a “cluster” of headaches, there may be symptom-free periods of years before another cluster of headaches occurs.

Consult a doctor about your headache and find out what can be done for pain relief in these situations: you have a chronic medical illness such as high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attack or stroke, diabetes, or liver problems, you are not obtaining relief with over-the-counter pain medications.

Consult a doctor about your headache if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription medications, there is any change in the normal pattern of your headache, you have a new type of headache that you never had before, you have pain in your face or eyes, and if you have a very severe headache.

Although headaches are very common, they may be a sign of serious disease that warrants immediate medical attention. Go to an emergency department if any of the following symptoms occur.

Severe pain, pain that develops very rapidly, a change in concentration or ability to think, a change in level of alertness, altered speech, weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking, changes in vision, headache with a stiff neck or neck pain, or if light hurts your eyes, worst headache of your life, headache with dizziness, room spinning, or falling to one side, headache from an injury or blow to the head, and headache with fever (over 100.4F or 38C when taken by mouth).

Treating a mild headache will usually involve over-the-counter pain medications. There are many different medications marketed for control of headache pain. The pharmaceutical companies spend millions of dollars each year to advertise their products. However, many “special” headache remedies are no better than simple acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin. In addition, stress reduction and rest may be helpful.

Doctors usually recommend over-the-counter pain medications for mild headache. If these medications do not adequately treat your headache, consult a doctor for further recommendations.

Although relatively safe, over-the-counter pain medicines all have potential side effects. Inappropriate use may have serious consequences. Always read the label and follow the recommended dosage.

Even nonprescription pain medicines can be dangerous if taken improperly or if taken for headache that is caused by certain diseases (such as bleeding or stroke). Potential problems include overdose, overuse, cross-reactions with other medications (especially with blood thinners), and toxic effects on various organs (especially the liver).

Acetaminophen (brand names include Tylenol, Aspirin Free Anacin, and Feverall, for example) is a safe and very effective pain reliever and should be considered the first-line treatment of headache.

Although acetaminophen has few cross-reactions with other medications, avoid taking with alcohol and sleeping medicines (barbiturates and benzodiazepines such as Valium). If acetaminophen alone is inadequate, some people report that the addition of caffeine to the acetaminophen provides more relief from pain (examples include Excedrin and Aspirin-Free) and is a reasonable choice for those people who can tolerate caffeine well.

Unless advised by a doctor, people with liver diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, and heavy drinkers, should avoid acetaminophen. Drinking a cup of caffeinated coffee with a pain reliever can provide the same caffeine effect. By increasing the production of stomach acid, caffeine helps the body absorb headache medicines more quickly.

Aspirin is another common pain reliever. Its most common side effects are stomach upset and increased risk of bleeding. Aspirin is a type of “nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.” People with stomach ulcers or on blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin) should not take aspirin.

Alcohol use increases the risk of bleeding. Heavy drinkers should not take aspirin because of the risk of bleeding from stomach irritation or ulcer formation. People older than 60 years and those with kidney problems should not take aspirin unless advised by their doctor.

Aspirin is commonly prescribed by doctors after a stroke without bleeding and can prevent another stroke. Taking aspirin for undiagnosed severe headache may be dangerous. The severe headache could come from a bleeding stroke and taking aspirin may make the bleeding worse.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs known as NSAIDs include such medications as ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin, for example) and naproxen sodium (Aleve and Naprosyn are commonly known brand names). These medications are often used for headache. The side effects are similar to those of aspirin.

It is important not to take aspirin and other NSAIDs together because the side effects are additive meaning they build on each other and become worse than one taken alone. The same warnings about age, kidney disease, stroke, and alcohol problems apply to other NSAIDs as well as to aspirin.

Homeopathic, herbal, and other remedies that are not tested for safety or regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can be potentially dangerous and are not recommended. Without FDA regulation there is no control over the quality, dose, or ingredients. Scientific studies that document safety and effectiveness are not required prior to the sale of these unregulated products.

By: Alisha Dhamani (Free Treatment for Anxiety eBook)

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Understanding Childhood Anxiety

Anxiety symptoms and disorders are a significant health problem in all developed countries. According to recent data, around 25% of adults will experience an anxiety disorders at some time. The frequency in children is unknown, but felt to be significantly underreported and under-diagnosed.

Although quite common, Anxiety Disorders in children often are overlooked or misjudged, despite being very treatable conditions. Children and adolescents with anxiety disorders typically experience intense fear, worry, or uneasiness that can last for long periods of time and significantly affect their lives. If not treated early, anxiety disorders can lead to:

- repeated school absences or an inability to finish school;

- impaired relations with peers;

- low self-esteem;

- increased alcohol or other drug use;

- problems adjusting to work situations; and

- anxiety disorder in adulthood.

Many different anxiety disorders affect children and adolescents. Several disorders and their signs are described below:

Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Children and adolescents with generalised anxiety disorder engage in extreme, unrealistic worry about everyday life activities. They worry unduly about their academic performance, sporting activities, or even about being on time. Typically, these young people are very self-conscious, feel tense, and have a strong need for reassurance. They may complain about stomach-aches or other discomforts that do not appear to have any physical cause.

Separation Anxiety Disorder: Children with separation anxiety disorder often have difficulty leaving their parents to attend school or camp, stay at a friend’s house, or be alone. Often, they ‘cling’ to parents and have trouble falling asleep. Separation anxiety disorder may be accompanied by depression, sadness, withdrawal, or fear that a family member might die. About one in every 25 children experiences separation anxiety disorder. Separation anxiety is a normal part of emotional development in pre-school children.

Phobias: Children and adolescents with phobias have unrealistic and excessive fears of certain situations or objects. Many phobias have specific names, and the disorder usually centres on animals, storms, water, heights, or situations, such as being in an enclosed space. Children and adolescents with social phobias are terrified of being criticised or judged harshly by others. Young people with phobias will try to avoid the objects and situations they fear, so the disorder can greatly restrict their lives.

Panic Disorder: Repeated ‘panic attacks‘ in children and adolescents without an apparent cause are signs of a panic disorder. Panic attacks are periods of intense fear accompanied by a pounding heartbeat, sweating, dizziness, nausea, or a feeling of imminent death. The experience is so scary that young people live in dread of another attack. Children and adolescents with the disorder may go to great lengths to avoid situations that may bring on a panic attack. They also may not want to go to school or to be separated from their parents.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Children and adolescents with obsessive-compulsive disorder, sometimes called OCD, become trapped in a pattern of repetitive thoughts and behaviours. Even though they may recognise that the thoughts or behaviours appear senseless and distressing, the pattern is very hard to stop. Compulsive behaviours may include repeated hand washing, counting, or arranging and rearranging objects. About two in every 100 adolescents experience obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: Children and adolescents can develop post-traumatic stress disorder after they experience a very stressful event. Such events may include experiencing physical or sexual abuse; being a victim of or witnessing violence; or living through a disaster, such as a bombing or hurricane.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental, emotional, and behavioural problems to occur during childhood and adolescence. About 13 of every 100 children and adolescents ages 9 to 17 experience some kind of anxiety disorder; girls are affected more than boys. About half of children and adolescents with anxiety disorders have a second anxiety disorder or other mental or behavioural disorder, such as depression. In addition, anxiety disorders may coexist with physical health conditions requiring treatment.

Researchers have found that the basic temperament of young people may play a role in some childhood and adolescent anxiety disorders. For example, some children tend to be very shy and restrained in unfamiliar situations, a possible sign that they are at greater risk for developing an anxiety disorder. Research in this area is very complex, because children’s fears often change as they age.

Researchers also suggest watching for signs of anxiety disorders when children are between the ages of 6 and 8 years of age. During this time, children generally grow less afraid of the dark and imaginary creatures and become more anxious about school performance and social relationships. An excessive amount of anxiety in children this age may be a warning sign for the development of anxiety disorders later in life.

Children and adolescents with anxiety disorders can benefit from a variety of treatments and services. Following an accurate diagnosis, possible treatments include:

- Cognitive-behavioural treatment, in which young people learn to deal with fears by modifying the ways they think and behave;

- Relaxation techniques;

- Biofeedback (to control stress and muscle tension);

- Family therapy;

- Parent training; and

- Medication.

While cognitive-behavioural approaches are effective in treating some anxiety disorders, medications work well with others. Some people with anxiety disorders benefit from a combination of these treatments. More research is needed to determine what treatments work best for the various types of anxiety disorders.

To learn more about Child Psychology try a free short home study course from Learning Curve.

Learning Curve also offer full length and short, specialised courses in Child Psychology.

By: Linda Pollitt (Free Download Anxiety Treatment eBook)

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Anxiety Medication – Common Treatments For Anxiety

Its well understood that a million or more people across the globe are victims to Anxiety Disorders, this disorder causes fear, distress and, at worst depression, despite being relatively treatable. Among the many probable ways that people find useful in managing and treating this condition is by the use of Anxiety medications.

These Anxiety medications are very vital and useful in treating the trite and most distressing of symptoms of anxiety disorders. One of their plus factor is in reducing the effects of panic attacks and assisting people to achieve a greater degree of control over the illiness. This in turn makes handling of issues that crop up during bouts of anxiety disorder quite easy to deal with. Anxiety medication for treatment of anxiety related disorders are therefore only available under physicians prescription and non the less.

Two Category of Anxiety Medication Widely used

Physicians who prescribe anxiety medications usually have a list of generic and brand names of these drugs, to facilitate quick dispensing. The purpose of using this drugs is chiefly to contain the symptoms of anxiety disorder while other therapy forms help the patient cope with the symptoms. An example is Psychotherapy, which is more often advised for anxiety disorders, other types of therapy include relaxation techniques and many more other forms. The general idea behind this, is to provide a patient of anxiety disorder with some level of relief and calm momentarily, while offering remedies that ensure long-termed ability to cope.

Two Major class of anxiety medications include:

Anxiolytics or anti-anxiety drugs. These ones work by reducing the pressures caused by anxiety itself. They are quite effective and fast acting, popular among these are brand names like Xanax and Valium, their biggest setback though, is that they are habit forming especially when used over long periods of time. They may also have negative impact on a persons ability to stay awake over extended periods, hence result to inability to carry out necessary functions. They are therefore prescribed only for short-term use.

Another one is Antidepressants, popular among these class of anxiety medication are brand names like Paxil, Lexapro and Prozac which are widely used in the treatment of the symptoms of anxiety disorders. They are often-times prescribed together with anti-anxiety medications. These anti-depressants are commonly used for extended periods of time and are not as fast acting as anxiolytics in releasing their effect. Additional to combating anxiety related symptoms, similar medications can also help with depression. Though, this is unfortunately, a common known negative effect of anxiety disorder.

Its never easy nor comfortable to leave a life laden with anxiety disorders. Where panic attack induced fears looms large and symptoms ride high in full gear. Due to the high habit-forming potential and other long-term side effects of these drugs, they may not be the only recommended form of treatment. Their use in conjunction with other coping mechanism can greatly help people have control of their lives once more.

By: Abhishek Agarwal (Get FREE Anxiety Treatment)

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Effective and Natural Cures for Anxiety

Natural cures for anxiety have been always considered as the best alternative treatments. There are a few benefits when using natural cures, such as avoiding the bad side effects of medicine. In addition, most natural cures also protects the sufferer`s own immunity system.

Constantly practicing and taking advantage of the natural remedies for anxiety is not that difficult as most people might think. They can be practiced at home by anyone suffering from stress, chronic anxiety disorder and depression. Here are a few remedies for anxiety that will help:

1. Breathing Techniques: Deep breathing techniques will definitely help you reduce the levels of your anxiety and overcome possible future panic attacks. Try to get a few deep breaths when you feel a panic attack coming and try to remain calm. You can do this once everyday, preferably in the morning and just before you go to bed.

2. Sleep: is one of the most important factors for a healthy body and mind. It may sound a bit obvious but getting enough sleep will keep you fresh and relaxed  throughout the day. Avoid negative thoughts and try to stay away from people or situations that tend to stress you.

3. Eating Regularly: Getting at least 3 meals a day is vital in anxiety disorders.  Most natural cures for anxiety include healthy diets. Therefore fruits and vegetables are highly recommended and just about  any aliment that contains vitamins and nutrients. It`s important to avoid fats and foods that contain high quantities of sugar.

4. Fish Oils: Fish Oil is available in many forms, however tablets are most recommended. Omega-3  oil is recommended by doctors in any type of mental disorder. Omega-3 is pr oven to be a natural cure for anxiety, on the long run. You can easily find them in your local pharmacy.

5. Coffee and tobacco should be completely avoided.

By: Alex (Anxiety Treatment eBook – FREE)

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Panic Symptoms – What are Panic Anxiety Attacks

Panic symptoms and panic anxiety attacks are a relatively common condition in which a person experiences a period of quite intense anxiety which comes on suddenly. They can last from a few minutes to a few hours. The frequency of occurrence can also vary quite widely from occurring daily to occurring once every year or so. Panic attacks can also happen at any time and have even been known to happen whilst the person is asleep. The causes of panic symptoms can also vary and may be triggered by an entirely random event or a sequence of specific “personal trigger” events.

People who suffer frequent panic attacks are said to have a condition called panic disorder. It is estimated that 2% of the population will experience a panic attack during their lifetime.  The external panic symptoms of an attack can have quite negative social results. It is estimated that 1 in 3 sufferers of panic disorder also have some form of agoraphobia – that is to say they are afraid to go out.

What’s it like

People who are having a panic attack often fear that they are having a heart attack, have difficulty breathing and in extreme cases fear that they may be dying. This is despite the fact that the fear experienced during a panic attack is often out of all proportion to reality.

The length of time that that panic symptoms is suffered by someone can vary from person to person. Panic disorder may continue for just a few months or last for years. This largely depends on when treatment is sought and what treatment is given. There is quite a bit of evidence available which suggests that with many people the symptoms just disappear of their own accord later in life.

Most sufferers of panic symptoms will get better after treatment. There are many treatments available and eventually a person will encounter a trigger event whilst under treatment but not have an attack. This will break the panic pattern and will eventually allow a person to lead a normal life without the need for further treatment.

Methods of Treatment

The best treatments are natural holistic ones which do not involve the used of antidepressants such as imipramine and Nardil. The patient should try activities which lead to stress reduction such as yoga and tai-chi. Indeed, most moderate physical exercise can help in relieving the symptoms of panic attacks. Stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine should be avoided where possible. Psychotherapy is another possible treatment which could help to reduce symptoms. Finally, cognitive-behavioral techniques using relaxation therapy has also been found to help people overcome the effects of panic symptoms.

By: John Nuttall (Free Download Anxiety Treatment eBook)

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Anxiety Treatments – Get Rid Of Those Blues

Today, more than ever, people are searching for better suited treatments for their chronic anxieties. Current anxiety treatments span over from strong medications to homeopathic therapies, to special exercise routines. However, growing numbers of people are increasingly dissatisfied with the side-effects ridden mainstream medicines. A large part of the suffering population is now thronging towards alternative fields of therapies.

On Prescribing Medications

While changes may be underway, Benzodiazepines continue to remain the most commonly prescribed anxiety medications. Brand names such as Xanax/Zanex and Valium fall under this group. The most common and perhaps most feared side effect of this kind of anxiety treatment is that of becoming physically and psychologically dependent. Intake of this medication, builds up a gradual tolerance for it, and this in turn will lead to increase in the dosage to produce the same soothing effect as when you first started on it.

Another problem is that the sudden withdrawal from these drugs may itself create many more different side effects – none of which is beneficial to living an anxiety free life. Symptoms such as mental confusion, sleeplessness, loss of appetite, trembling, perspiring and ringing in the ears are all too frequent in people who have been taking benzodiazepines for a time and then stopped.

Because of the probability of people becoming hooked to this prescription, doctors are now being advised to only prescribe such medications for the shortest a period of time possible. In addition, physicians are only supposed to prescribe this for patients who have an anxiety disorder that can be classified as crippling and severe.

On Alternative Therapies

There are broad alternative options for anxiety treatment being currently pursued. Usually, patients find them to be quite effective. Some standard alternative anxiety treatment methods are acupuncture, homeopathy and herbal medicine. Each of these specified areas of alternative treatment employ a very varied approach to treating anxiety. And they are frequently used in combination with one another.

Some other techniques, people have felt to be useful include breathing work, relaxation training and meditation. One such practice that embraces the above mentioned methods is yoga. Experts often advocate yoga because there is such an extensive range of how-to instructional courses and material accessible that makes it easy for sufferers to help handle their anxieties by themselves.

Studies show that anxiety is the number one mental disorder in America, with 1 in 9 people suffering from it. Present anxiety treatment trends prove that these people tend to visit their family doctor for help instead of going to the psychiatrist. Moreover, if they are prescribed medicines and continue to take it for a duration of six months or more, they are less likely to relapse than if taken for fewer than six months.

Anxiety disorders are becoming more prevalent as time goes by. While the climbing statistics of these disorders can be frightening and disconcerting, the fact that many cure options and medicines are constantly improving and also becoming easily available is of some solace-in reality, modern day anxiety treatments are about 90% effective. On the other hand, only those who seek medical assistance for their condition can get the right treatment but unfortunately, only 1/3 of sufferers do so.

Summary:

There are an increasing number of people who are throwing away their uncertainties and fears and seriously contemplating alternative anxiety treatment because of the side effects related to conventional drugs.

By: Brooke Hayles (Free Treatment for Anxiety eBook)

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