New Daily Persistent Headache: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief If you have had daily head pain for a few months, you might have a distinct type of primary headache: new daily persistent headache. Sometimes confused with chronic headache disorders, new daily persistent headache (NDPH) is unique in one way:  NDPH sufferers have no prior history of a chronic headache syndrome before developing this long lasting headache. Chronic headaches (including NDPH)  affect 45 million Americans  every year. NDPH itself is relatively rare, but that is all the more reason to educate yourself on this  headache disorder . What is “new daily persistent headache”? First described in 1986  by Walter Vanast, new daily persistent headache is well named. Each word in NDPH simply describes what it entails: It is new.  Head pain started one day, but the sufferer has no prior history of chronic headaches. Often, the sufferer can pinpoint the exact day that NDPH started. It is daily.  To be NDPH, head pain needs to occur  at least  every other day. Usually, though, every day comes with a headache. It is persistent.  Daily continuous headache pain is unremitting for at least three months. It is a headache.  Sometimes, NDPH mimics the symptoms of a tension-type headache. Other times, NDPH mimics migrainous pain. These clinical features are the work of the international medical community. The International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) describes NDPH in great detail, published by the International Headache Society. NDPH must not be confused with other primary and secondary causes of headaches. The key difference is this: Before the first onset of headache symptoms, the NDPH sufferer had absolutely no history of chronic headaches. The telltale sign is when patients remember the exact date of their first headache. How long does NDPH last?  Three months is the minimum cutoff. You can try preventive treatments before then and headache pain  can  last much longer than that. But three months is when your healthcare provider will officially be able to diagnose NDPH. Diagnosing NDPH: How is it different from a normal headache? When diagnosing new daily persistent headache, a doctor must rule out other chronic daily headaches, which often include: Chronic tension-type headaches Chronic migraines Medication overuse headache Hemicrania continua Although the diagnostic criteria were first proposed in 1994 (called the Silberstein-Lipton criteria), the 3rd edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3) included these clinical characteristics of NDPH in a 2004 revision: With no prior history of chronic headaches, a new chronic headache occurs within a 24-hour period. (In other words, there is no build up. The headaches just start one day.) The headache is persistent, occurring every single day, within the 24 hours of onset. The onset can be easily remembered. ( 4 in 5 patients can  remember the exact date.) The headache continues for three or more months. Other headache types have been ruled out. These diagnostic criteria should help you and your doctor figure out whether you should receive a diagnosis of NDPH. But a doctor may still need to administer brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or CAT scan. When should you be concerned about a headache?  Three months is the minimum cutoff for NDPH. Once head pain has persisted for three straight months, you may have this primary headache disorder, and you should see your healthcare provider right away. Symptoms of NDPH The symptoms of NDPH vary from person to person. Some experience tension headache-like pain while others experience migraine-like pain. These are the  common symptoms : Either intense throbbing like a migraine, or tightening like a tension-type headache Photophobia (light sensitivity) and phonophobia (sound sensitivity) Nausea and vomiting 1 in 10 cases is on one side of the head; most are on both sides More than half of patients experience lightheadedness Mild or moderate intensity Causes & Risk Factors Why new daily persistent headache occurs is unclear, but it  seems to be  related to inflammation and/or cervical spine  joint hypermobility. There are, however, a few known root causes and risk factors for NDPH. Determining which applies to you is important as it allows you and your provider(s) to target the root cause of your pain. Causes and risk factors of NDPH: Decreased spinal fluid pressure that leads to spinal headache Increased spinal fluid pressure that leads to pseudotumor cerebri Bleeding around the brain Blood clot in the brain (AKA cerebral venous sinus thrombosis) Medication overuse Intracranial hypertension Lumbar puncture, such as an epidural anesthesia or steroid shot Epstein-Barr virus or another flu-like illness Meningitis Surgical procedure Head trauma A stressful life event According to a 2016 clinic-based study by Dr. Todd Rozen published in  Headache,  more than  50% of patients cannot identify  an NDPH trigger. How common is NDPH?  Actually, NDPH is rare.  A landmark study  published in  Cephalalgia  shows that only 0.03% of Norway’s general population experienced NDPH, and that the average age is 35 years old. NDPH Treatment Options Does new persistent daily headache ever go away?  In some patients, NDPH can be easily treated and never recur. In others, NDPH may recur later in life. Nevertheless, you need to treat your NDPH. Fortunately, there are some great NDPH treatment options. 1. Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care 2. Intravenous Methylprednisolone 3. Peripheral Nerve Blocks 4. Prescription Drugs for NDPH 1. Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Low levels of  cerebrospinal fluid  (CSF) can cause cervicogenic headaches, but  also can cause  new daily persistent headaches. Chiropractic care is the number one treatment option for correcting the spinal alignment and normalizing CSF. Pain from the upper cervical joints  can be felt  in the head, leading to chronic headaches. Chiropractic care is one of the most common non-medicine  treatments for chronic headaches. Cervical spine joint hypermobility may influence the onset of NDPH.  One study found  that 11 out of 12 NDPH sufferers were found to have cervical spine joint mobility. Physical therapy and chiropractic care are your best bet at solving cervical spine joint hypermobility. And chiropractic care should be your first choice to handle abnormal CSF levels and pain in your upper cervical joints. Live in the Denver, CO area? Denver Upper Cervical Center is at your disposal. We work with patients to determine the

Thunderclap Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief Thunderclap headaches are sudden onset severe  headache  pain which may happen for no apparent reason. Their name comes from the way this headache begins — unexpectedly, intense, and strong, like a clap of thunder. A common trigger of thunderclap headaches is a stroke or aneurysm, so it is imperative to see your doctor right away if you experience a thunderclap headache. About 1 in 2,400 adults suffer from a thunderclap headache each year. Let’s take a look at symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention of thunderclap headaches. What is a thunderclap headache? A thunderclap headache (sometimes abbreviated as TCH) is a severe headache disorder that begins quickly and lasts for at least 5 minutes. Thunderclap headaches are very rare. Only  43 in 100,000  adults experience a thunderclap headache within a calendar year. Are thunderclap headaches serious?  Yes, thunderclap headaches are serious, as this excruciating pain may indicate a dire problem with your circulatory system or in your brain. Often, what causes this kind of sudden headache is unknown. However, two likely causes are blood vessel tears or issues with the brain, which is why it’s wise to seek medical help right away. What is primary TCH?  Primary thunderclap headache is when TCH occurs as its own type of headache, not a symptom of another condition. Secondary TCH is when a thunderclap headache is a result or symptom of another condition, such as a stroke. However, some  researchers claim  there are no such thing as “primary thunderclap headaches”. More and more believe  reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome  (RCVS) is the most common trigger of “primary TCH”, making so-called primary TCH just another secondary TCH. What does a thunderclap headache feel like? A thunderclap headache feels like a severe headache from nowhere with an overwhelming level of headache pain. It reaches its maximum intensity  within 1 minute  from onset. Direct symptoms  of a thunderclap headache include: Sudden onset headache Severe head pain These  indirect symptoms  may  accompany  thunderclap headaches: Call your doctor when… Thunderclap headaches can be very serious since they may indicate your blood vessels are damaged or blocked, triggering a life-threatening stroke. You should call your doctor or go to the emergency department right away if you experience this kind of pain. Even if you’re unsure whether or not you’re experiencing a thunderclap headache, seek immediate medical attention if you… Get confused Can’t see Have a fever Do not know the cause of your severe headache pain Feel weak Feel numb Have difficulty speaking Can’t think straight A medical professional can determine if you are suffering from a stroke or another severe condition that requires prompt treatment. Causes & Triggers of Thunderclap Headaches Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (also called SAH; blood leaking around the brain; complication of hemorrhagic stroke or cerebral aneurysm) Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (also known as RCVS) Blood vessel problems , such as vasculitis, swelling, artery dissection, or blockage Ischemic stroke (blocked blood vessel, often due to venous thrombosis AKA blood clot) Hemorrhagic stroke (blood vessel bursting in brain) Cerebral aneurysm (weakened blood vessel bulging and possibly rupturing) Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (low cerebrospinal fluid) Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (rare spinal cord compression disorder) Pituitary apoplexy (during pregnancy, when the pituitary gland bleeds) Sexual activity (called “post coital thunderclap headache”) Intense exercise Switching between multiple personalities (called “transitional interpersonality thunderclap headache”) Infection in the brain , such as meningitis or encephalitis Head injury or trauma Upon diagnosis, thunderclap headaches will sometimes have  no apparent cause . Many experts consider SAH and the more  recently-discovered RCVS  to be the two most common causes of TCH. Some of the causes listed above are related to one another. For instance, sexual activity likely leads to blood vessel stress, which may trigger a thunderclap headache. I list both because blood vessel problems are a generalized cause of thunderclap headaches, but sexual activity is a very common, more specific cause of thunderclap headaches. Diagnosis of Thunderclap Headaches A diagnosis of thunderclap headaches is required to prescribe treatment, since treatment depends on the underlying cause of your thunderclap headache. A doctor often uses the following  4 diagnostic tests  to identify possible causes of a thunderclap headache ( in order of importance ): CT scan (computed tomography) Lumbar puncture (AKA spinal tap) MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) MRA (magnetic resonance angiography) Treatments for Thunderclap Headache How do you treat a thunderclap headache? There are  3 treatment options for thunderclap headaches: Surgery Psychotherapy Medication The treatment for TCH your doctor will recommend depends on what is causing your TCH. 1. Surgery In serious situations, your doctor may opt for surgery to treat what is causing your thunderclap headache. Surgery may be necessary in treating the following TCH triggers: Ischemic stroke Hemorrhagic stroke Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage Aneurysm Pituitary apoplexy Encephalitis (if caused by tumors) Meningitis Side note: Meningitis is often a  complication  of spine or brain surgeries. Though usually treated with steroids or antibiotics, meningitis can also be  treated with surgery , even though a surgery might have caused it in the first place. Surgery is a very invasive operation, and sometimes expensive. But if your thunderclap headache is the result of any of the dire conditions listed above, surgery may be necessary to save your life. 2. Psychotherapy Psychotherapy is the primary treatment for multiple personality disorder, which can lead to thunderclap headaches. Psychotherapy may also help relieve the symptoms of a head injury, which may lead to a thunderclap headache. All things considered, neither multiple personality disorder nor head injury is not the most common cause of TCH. 3. Medication In non-life-threatening cases or after successful medical intervention, your doctor will likely prescribe medication to prevent future thunderclap headaches and the related complications. Blood pressure medicine  is a common pharmaceutical prescribed after a thunderclap headache. Blood pressure meds may lower blood pressure and increase blood flow. Types of blood pressure medication: ACE inhibitors Alpha blockers Alpha-2 receptor agonists Angiotensin II receptor blockers Beta-blockers Calcium channel blockers Diuretics Peripheral adrenergic inhibitors Vasodilators Nimodipine is a calcium channel blocker commonly prescribed to treat TCH triggers. Verapamil is

Concussion Recovery: Average Times & How to Speed It Up Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief Concussion recovery is the process of healing after a head injury. Most symptoms of concussion go away within 7-10 days. Most people recover from a concussion in about a month, but there are factors that can speed it up or slow it down. For instance, one way to  improve  concussion symptoms is chiropractic care. One way to  worsen  your symptoms is high-intensity exercise before you’re ready. Concussion recovery is especially important to sports medicine, as such a high percentage of contact sports athletes suffer repeated concussions. Almost 4 million concussions occur every year because of sports and recreational activities, and  between 30%  and  50% go unreported. Concussion Definition & Symptoms What is a concussion?  A concussion is an injury to your brain caused by the brain impacting the inside of your skull. Also called a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussions usually occur because of a direct hit to the head or because of whiplash. What is post-concussion syndrome?  Post-concussion syndrome is a condition in which concussion symptoms persist for more than 6 weeks. Also called post-concussive syndrome, this condition is rare after a single concussion. With each concurrent concussion, however, developing post-concussion syndrome is more likely. What should you do after a concussion?  After a suspected concussion, go to the emergency room. A doctor must diagnose a concussion and prescribe the proper treatment for optimal concussion recovery. Mental and physical rest are the two most common recommendations. The most common  symptoms of a concussion  are: Headache Blurred vision Dizziness, balance issues Mood changes Difficulty concentrating Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) Sensitivity to light (photophobia) Sensitivity to sounds (phonophobia) Seeing spots Nausea and/or vomiting Fatigue Sleep disturbances Loss of consciousness Concussion Recovery Time Concussion recovery time varies from person to person. Some people recover from mild traumatic brain injuries within a couple of weeks. In the worst cases, concussion symptoms can last for years. Most concussions resolve within a month. How long does it take to recover from a mild concussion?  The average recovery time after a concussion has been estimated to be  between 16  and  29 days. Most people recover in 2-4 weeks. An estimated  20% of people  need more than 6 weeks to recover from persistent symptoms of concussion. Can you fully recover from a concussion?  Most people who suffer a concussion can expect to fully recover within 4 weeks. Rarely, severe concussions from an extremely traumatic injury  or  repeated concussions over time can cause permanent damage. Factors That May Slow Recovery Time These are the factors that may slow your recovery time after a concussion: The severity of the initial injury Trying to do too much, too soon Pre-existing neurological issues Stress Older age History of concussions How to Speed Concussion Recovery There are several science-backed methods to speed up concussion recovery. Physical rest Mental rest Light exercise Abstain from alcohol Chiropractic care Psychological treatment Medication How do you treat a concussion at home?  You treat a concussion at home with mental and physical rest, but only for a few days. After that initial rest period, slowly start to reintroduce normal activity. No one should be alone for the first 48 hours of concussion recovery. Talk to a healthcare professional before treating your concussion at home. 1. Physical Rest Physical rest in which you avoid anything beyond very light physical activity is a  must  for early concussion recovery. Most of your normal daily activities may need to be put on pause for a few days. Avoid these normal daily activities: Household chores Grocery shopping Exercising Athletic activities Swimming Working on the car Riding in an airplane Dishes Lifting heavy objects If you  must  buy groceries or go out on errands, bring a friend or family member. Driving with post concussion syndrome may be dangerous for some moderate to severe cases. After a few days of rest, slowly increase your activity level and observe whether or not your activity triggers concussion symptoms. If not, you’re recovering! Stay hydrated as you increase your activity levels. If you don’t feel better after a week of physical rest, talk to your healthcare provider about approaching your recovery process in a new way. 2. Mental Rest Mental rest helps the brain to recover after a concussion by reducing eye strain and mental stress. Mentally stimulating activities that should be avoided include: Driving Watching television Video games Talking on or looking at your phone Loud music Reading a book Generally, activities that require extended periods of focus for your eyes may strain your visual system and exacerbate symptoms. You’ll notice that even watching television should be avoided immediately after a concussion. Less screen time means better sleep — plus, it helps you avoid light sensitivity. Some providers will recommend picking television or your phone back up after the first few days of recovery. However, this may cause flare-ups and slow concussion recovery. Some post-concussion syndrome patients struggle for  months  to look at screens without developing symptoms. For the first couple of days, your eyes will probably be sensitive to light. You may want to lie down in a dark room. This is fine for a couple of days, but should not be your daily routine for more than 2-3 days. Part of mental rest is a good night’s sleep — aim for 7-8 hours. For the first few days, feel free to take naps throughout the day as necessary. Slowly, phase out napping to return to normal mental activity. 3. Exercise Low-impact, non-contact aerobic exercise may aid in concussion recovery. Exercise is typically avoided, so as not to trigger concussion symptoms. But research shows that exercise is actually a promising therapy for concussion therapy. The key is to start with very light exercise and increase your intensity gradually over time. Animal studies indicate that exercise benefits patients who suffer from prolonged symptoms of concussion. Other studies reveal that exercise may  encourage neuron growth  and  decrease cell death  in the brain of concussion victims. 4. Abstain from Alcohol Do not drink alcohol within two weeks of suffering a concussion. Even a

Migraine Types [How to Tell What Kind of Migraine You Have] Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief ~We describe 12 types of migraines, plus 4 types of severe headaches that some may erroneously describe as migraine headaches. This article can help you tell what kind of migraine you have, or if you have a migraine in the first place. What is a migraine?  A migraine is a neurological condition that can cause visual disturbances, usually in both eyes, and severe throbbing pain, usually on only  one  side of the head. Migraines attacks may last for hours or even days at a time. There are 2 main types of migraines: Migraines without aura — common migraines not accompanied by visual symptoms Migraines with aura — complicated migraines, preceded by visual symptoms, like flashing lights But there are many more specific subtypes of migraine we’ll talk about below, like ocular migraine, vestibular migraine, and transformed migraine. You may have chronic migraine (transformed migraine) if you suffer from migraine symptoms at least 15 days in a month. This is the most common complaint at headache specialty centers in the US. The exact cause of migraines is largely unknown, although experts have identified several migraine triggers, such as: Stress Smoking Hormone changes Sleep disturbances Weather changes Certain medications Red wine Aged cheeses Smoked fish Caffeine (including in soda, coffee, chocolate, tea) We’ll define common types of migraines and other very painful  headaches . Bookmark this page so you can look back on this helpful info and even share it with your friends! Looking for evidence-based chiropractic treatment of your migraines or headaches?  Schedule an appointment  with us at Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic. 1. Migraine without Aura (Common Migraine) 2. Migraine with Aura (Complicated Migraine) 3. Ocular/Retinal Migraine 4. Silent (Acephalgic) Migraine 5. Hemiplegic Migraine Headache 6. Vestibular Migraine 7. Hormonal Headaches & Menstrual Migraines 8. Basilar Artery Migraines (with Brainstem Aura) 9. Abdominal Migraine 10. Status Migrainosus 11. Transformed Migraines (Chronic Migraines) 12. Cyclic Migraines 1. Migraine without Aura (Common Migraine) Migraine headaches are the second most common kind of headache after tension headaches. Chronic migraines affect millions of Americans every year. Many consider migraine to be the most severe headache pain you can experience. Migraine is the number one  neurological disorder  causing disability in the world. Symptoms of migraine without aura include: Pulsating, throbbing pain that is made worse by physical activity Stiff neck Anxiety Nausea and vomiting Light sensitivity Noise sensitivity These symptoms are different from person to person. Migraines can last hours or sometimes even days. You may experience warning signs up to an hour before the headache pain begins, such as nausea. Some migraineurs don’t even experience the headache pain. While tension-type headaches cause tension and pain on  both  sides of your head, a migraine usually causes pain on  one  side of your head.  Read about  the differences between migraine and headache. Migraines come in 4 stages: Prodrome Aura (not in common migraine) Attack Postdrome Chronic migraine is defined as displaying migraine symptoms at least 15 days per month, whereas episodic migraine is when you have migraines less often than 15 days a month. According to the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3), you must have at least 5 migraine attacks each year to be formally diagnosed with migraines. Common treatments for migraines include: Chiropractic care Stress relief Pain medication (over-the-counter or prescription), such as ibuprofen Anti-seizure drugs, like topiramate Triptans Opioids Antidepressants Botox injections CGRP monoclonal antibodies Blood pressure medication Be careful of taking too much medication, as you may build up a tolerance. Also, “medication overuse headache” is head pain brought on by too much of certain medications. About two-thirds of migraine sufferers only ever experience common migraines, never migraines with aura. 2. Migraine with Aura (Complicated Migraine) A complicated migraine is a migraine headache accompanied by a visual aura (visual disturbances). This is one of the most distinguishing features of migraines. If you experience a visual aura, you likely have a migraine, not just a headache. A visual aura is a set of visual symptoms before a migraine attack, including: Bright spots Flashing lights Blind spots Moving lines Double vision Temporary loss of vision, in severe cases About 1 in 3 people suffers from migraines with aura. Even then, not every migraine they experience will be accompanied by visual aura symptoms. 3. Ocular/Retinal Migraine Retinal migraine causes quick attacks of blindness and/or other visual aura symptoms, but only in one eye. It is caused by the constricting and narrowing of blood vessels to the eye, which reduces blood flow to that eye. It’s an important distinction between one eye and both eyes being affected. A regular migraine with aura affects both eyes and has different potential root causes. A retinal migraine may also be known as: Ocular migraine Ophthalmic migraine Monocular migraine Visual migraine Ocular/retinal migraines are rare. Half of 1% of migraine sufferers are affected by retinal migraines. 4. Silent (Acephalgic) Migraine A silent migraine is when you experience the visual symptoms of a migraine aura, but without the headache pain. Also known as “typical aura without headache” or “painless migraine”, this  used  to be called an acephalgic migraine, but that is now an outdated term. These only occur in 5% of migraine sufferers — nearly 2 million people in the US alone. 5. Hemiplegic Migraine Headache A hemiplegic migraine is a rare type of migraine. It is also a severe migraine, sharing some symptoms with stroke. If you may have hemiplegic migraine, seek help from a healthcare professional right away. Hemiplegia is weakness on one side of the body, either the right or left. According to the National Stroke Association, as many as “9 out of 10 stroke survivors have some degree of paralysis immediately following a stroke.” But hemiplegia may also be caused by a migraine. These hemiplegic migraines may run in the family. This is a rare disorder. Studies in Denmark estimate 0.01% of people suffer from hemiplegic migraines worldwide, but the true number is unknown. 6. Vestibular Migraine Vestibular migraines

Allergy Headaches: Causes, Triggers, Symptoms & Treatment Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief If you suffer from allergies, that  bad headache  may be triggered by allergy symptoms. Some refer to it as an allergy headache, although it gets somewhat complicated from there. Some patients report allergy headaches as a direct link to their allergies. What they’re referring to may be discomfort in the nasal passages due to allergy symptoms or a different type of headache altogether. Sinus headaches and migraines can both be triggered by allergies or even a cervical spinal misalignment. It’s essential to understand the root causes of your headache. An accurate diagnosis will determine your treatment plan and triggers to avoid and prevent future headaches. What is an allergy headache? An allergy headache refers to the symptoms associated with your allergies more than an actual type of headache. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is a common inflammation of the inside of your nose caused by allergens. That inflammation can present as pain that feels like a headache. What does an allergy headache feel like?  An allergy headache can feel like sinus pressure and facial pain throughout the nose, forehead, and cheekbones. It can present with symptoms that resemble the common cold: sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes/watery eyes, nasal congestion, and nasal buildup. What you’re referring to as an allergy headache may be a different kind of headache, as well. Your headache may be caused by a sinus infection, migraines,  ice pick headaches , or other underlying conditions or triggers. If you’re  waking up with headaches , for example, that could be a sign of an undiagnosed sleep disorder.   Headaches could also be triggered by other factors outside of allergies, even among those who have allergies. Those include: Cold or flu symptoms Stress Alcohol Hormonal changes Teeth grinding at night Changes in diet Lack of sleep/Change in sleep patterns Allergy Headache Symptoms Allergy headache symptoms present like other common headache symptoms, which further emphasizes a whole-body approach to treating the cause of your discomfort. What are the symptoms of an allergy headache?  The symptoms of an allergy headache include pain in your sinuses and moderate to severe facial pain. If your allergy headache is caused by a migraine, which is a  common occurrence , migraine symptoms can also include: Throbbing, pulsing pain on one or both sides of the head Sensitivity to light, smell, and sound Nausea and vomiting Dizziness Head pain that worsens with movement   According to the American Migraine Foundation, a migraine can even present with allergy- and cold-like symptoms. It isn’t uncommon for a migraine to come with a stuffy nose and watery eyes, two hallmark symptoms among allergy sufferers.  Additional symptoms, or  prodrome symptoms , may occur in the days leading up to a migraine. Depending on the  type of migraine , you may also experience visual symptoms or auras. Symptoms for true sinus headaches, or rhinosinusitis, include: Weaker smell/lack of smell Facial pain/pressure Fever Again, sinus headaches are rare. More likely than not, there are other triggers and root causes behind that allergy headache. Common Triggers of Allergy Headaches Allergy headache triggers coincide with your allergy triggers. Those include: Seasonal allergies Pollen Pet dander Dust mites Mold Stress Certain foods Some allergy sufferers experience worse symptoms in the springtime. Changes in weather and barometric pressure are both  migraine triggers , as well. The list of migraine triggers is much longer and can include everything from environmental factors to medications to dehydration. Diagnosis An accurate diagnosis is essential to successfully treating headaches related to allergies. Your physician will want to know where the pain is located, whether that’s the  top of your head  or focused on one side. They’ll ask about any additional pain or symptoms and whether you’ve tried anything for those symptoms. If you’re sure what you’re dealing with is an allergy headache, your physician or allergist can run a series of allergy tests to identify specific triggers. What you’re feeling in your sinuses may not be sinusitis or a sinus headache, for example, but  migraine pain. Again, sinus headaches are quite rare and  often over-diagnosed , even self-diagnosed by patients complaining of sinus pressure. More often than that, that patient is actually experiencing a migraine, as allergies can be a trigger for chronic migraines, or sinus problems that present with a bad headache. Causes of Allergy Headache The causes of your allergy headache may depend on your allergies and the type of headache you’re experiencing. There are common causes of allergy headaches: Misalignment of the upper cervical spine:  Sometimes migraine or sinus headaches are really misalignments in the spine that require adjustment for long term relief. Migraines:  The headache you’re experiencing may be the result of allergens triggering an immune system response. This causes inflammation that presents as a migraine attack. If you’re a chronic migraine sufferer, it may not have anything to do with your allergies at all. Hay fever:  Headaches caused by hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, aren’t a result of sinus headaches. It’s the inflammation in your nasal passages that is causing you that discomfort. Food allergies:  Some foods can trigger a headache response not because of the allergy itself, but because of your own food sensitivities. There is some evidence that foods like dairy, chocolate, and eggs  may cause migraines  in some. Histamine:  Histamines are your immune system’s response to allergy triggers. They can cause the worst of your allergy symptoms, and may even  trigger migraines  in those prone to chronic headaches. Antihistamines are a common treatment for allergy sufferers.   If you have a sinus headache or migraine, the list of causes is much longer. True sinus headaches are the result of a sinus infection. How long does an allergy headache last?  An allergy headache can last as long as you’re exposed to the triggers for your headache and allergy symptoms. It also depends on the real cause of your headache. A true sinus headache can last up to 2 weeks. Migraine attacks can last for hours and up to days at a time. Prevention Allergy headache prevention is focused on limiting your exposure to known allergens. That may mean spending

Heat-Induced Headaches Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief Heat headaches and severe headaches like migraines are common in hot weather. While many blame the hot weather itself for these types of headaches, there is typically an underlying cause for your head pain and other symptoms. Dehydration and heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke may play a part in your  bad headache .  Understanding both the causes and the warning signs of a heat headache can help you prevent and treat potentially dangerous heat-related conditions behind your pain. Heat Headache Causes Hot, sunny weather can  boost serotonin levels  and improve our overall mood while increasing our chance of developing headaches at the same time. Why does the heat give me a headache?  Heat headaches are often symptomatic of other conditions in the body. The heat may give you a headache because it has triggered a reaction to dehydration, a heat-related illness, or a migraine. It isn’t the heat causing your headache, but your body’s response to the hot weather. Dehydration A heat headache may actually be a dehydration headache. Dehydration alone causes headaches in many, but it can also  exacerbate other conditions , including migraines. Dehydration  occurs when your body lacks the right amount of fluid to supply the brain. This causes your brain tissue to lose moisture and shrink, which in turn causes bad headaches. Dehydration can also impact blood flow through your blood vessels as water in the body decreases. This can lead to a rapid drop in blood pressure and extreme fatigue. The good news is, dehydration is preventable in hot weather. The best thing you can do to reduce your chance of dehydration is to drink lots of fluids, especially if you’re spending time outside on a hot day. Listen to your body and use common sense. If you’re tired, rest. If you’re thirsty, quench your thirst with water or sports drinks. Heat-Related Illness If your heat headache is severe, you may be suffering from a heat-related illness like heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to both in extreme weather conditions. We’ll explore heat exhaustion in detail, but these conditions mean that your body is overheating. Improve thermoregulation, or your body’s ability to cool itself down, by getting to a cool, shaded place if you think you may be showing signs of a heat-related illness. Migraines Your heat headache may be the  onset of a migraine . Fluctuations in weather or barometric pressure, high humidity, even too much exposure to bright sunlight are all  migraine triggers. If your heat headache is a  migraine , treat the heat as a trigger. Try to avoid too much time outside on hot days, wear sunglasses, and keep yourself as cool as possible throughout the day. Heat Headache Symptoms Heat headache symptoms vary depending on the cause of those headaches. Generally, the most common causes of heat headaches lead to mild-to-moderate dull pain on both sides of the head. Heat headaches typically worsen with continued physical activity in hot weather. How long do heat headaches last?  Heat headaches last anywhere from half an hour up to several hours. If you treat your headache as soon as it starts, it’s less likely to last for a lengthy period. Migraine sufferers may report additional symptoms such as a sensitivity to light and sound, intense pain on one side of the head, or nausea and vomiting. If heat headache symptoms worsen, seek medical attention immediately. You may be suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion is a sign that your body is overheating. Your heat headache may actually be an early indicator that you may be suffering from heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include the following: Sudden headache Dizziness Excessive sweating Pale or clammy skin Nausea or vomiting Muscle pain or cramps Fatigue or weakness Abnormal pulse (either too fast or too weak) Without treatment, heat exhaustion can quickly become more severe and lead to heatstroke. Seek medical attention immediately if any of the above symptoms worsen or if symptoms last beyond an hour. Exposure to excessive heat may also result in heat rash, heat cramps, or muscle cramps and spasms, and bad sunburns. Treating Heat Headaches Treating a head headache depends on the cause. If you’re at risk of a heat-related illness or feeling head pain due to dehydration, there are treatment options to prevent more severe symptoms. What can I do to alleviate a heat headache?  To alleviate a heat headache, get yourself to a shaded area and drink water. Avoid caffeinated beverages, as caffeine can make headaches worse. If you think you’re experiencing heat exhaustion, try to find an ice pack or cold compresses to reduce your body temperature and soothe hot skin. Loosen or take off any tight clothing. Once you’re in a cooler area, over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like acetaminophen may be helpful. Coping With Excessive Heat The best way to keep heat headaches at bay is to be more aware of your body and its response to excessive heat. How can I prevent a heat headache?  To prevent a heat headache, limit physical activity outside on hot days. Drink plenty of water or liquids with electrolytes like sports drinks if you need to spend time outside. Try to find shaded areas to rest on hot days, and take frequent breaks if you’re physically exerting yourself. Wear polarized sunglasses and keep up your food intake along with your hydration. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day to avoid severe sunburns, blistering, and even sun poisoning. If you know hot weather is a migraine trigger for you, try to take steps to limit your exposure to the heat. Try to limit other migraine triggers like skipping doses of prescription medication, stress, and changes in diet and sleep patterns. When To See a Doctor If you are dealing with frequent, even  daily headaches , it’s best to seek medical help from your doctor to rule out any underlying conditions. You may have undiagnosed migraines or other types of headaches, including  thunderclap  or  allergy headaches . Your healthcare

Hypnic Headache: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief ypnic headaches are rare headaches which occur during sleep and usually wake the person up. Head pain may last anywhere from 15 minutes to 3 hours. While the causes are unknown, the main at-home treatment is caffeine, such as from a cup of coffee or caffeine pill. Less than 1% of people are affected by hypnic headaches. But for those who do experience these annoying “alarm clock headaches,” be encouraged. According to the Sleep Foundation, more than 40% of people who treat their hypnic headaches one time never experience them again. If hypnic headaches are disrupting your sleep cycle and circadian rhythm, schedule an appointment with Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic to see if upper cervical chiropractic care is the solution for you. Call us at 303-955-8270 for more information. Keep reading to learn more about hypnic headaches, whether you have them, and how to treat them. What is a hypnic headache? A hypnic headache is head pain which occurs while you’re asleep, usually waking you up and disrupting your sleep schedule. This primary headache disorder more commonly affects older individuals — one study found the average age of onset was 62. The head pain is usually dull, but it may present as pulsating or throbbing. Some people with hypnic headaches report mild head pain, but most report the pain is moderate to severe. Typically, these rare headaches are easy to treat and will not impact your health long term. Hypnic headaches may also be called alarm clock headaches or nocturnal headaches. What is the average duration of a hypnic headache? The average duration of a hypnic headache is 15-60 minutes. In extremely rare cases, headaches might last over 3 hours. Symptoms What are the symptoms of a hypnic headache? The common symptoms of hypnic headaches include: Head pain that begins during REM sleep (REM = rapid eye movement) Pain that wakes you up and persists once awake Pain that lasts 30-60 minutes, though it is occasionally shorter or longer Pain on one or both sides of the head Pain which is spread out, not concentrated According to the International Headache Society’s ICHD-3 (International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition), a diagnosis of hypnic headache would require at least 10 nights of head pain during sleep per month for 3 months. The IHS’s diagnostic criteria are widely used. Causes & Risk Factors Experts do not know what causes hypnic headaches, but there are a few possible root causes that raise your risk of hypnic headaches: Age (over 50 years old) History of other headache disorders Pain management dysfunction Melatonin production problems Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea Hypertension (high blood pressure) Migraine Extreme thirst Frequent urination This headache condition seems to impact both genders equally. What is the most likely cause of a hypnic headache? The most likely cause of a hypnic headache is an imbalance in brain chemistry. Diagnosis In order to diagnose a patient for hypnic headaches, a healthcare provider would likely rule out a tumor with an MRI and rule out sleep apnea with a sleep study (polysomnography). Then a diagnosis of hypnic headaches would have to meet these clinical features : Head pain occurs during sleep. It wakes you up. It lasts for 15 minutes up to 4 hours. It occurs at least 10 nights a month, lasting for at least 3 months (AKA episodic). It is typically spread out on both sides of the head , not concentrated in one area. It is characterized by moderate to severe intensity, rather than minor pain. It is characterized by dull aching , sometimes a throbbing or pulsating sensation. It cannot be better accounted for by some other diagnosis.   Your doctor will try to rule out other root causes of your head pain. Common conditions that might better explain your symptoms include: Obstructive sleep apnea Brain tumor Artery inflammation in the head Migraine Cervicogenic headache Cluster headaches Trigeminal neuralgia Paroxysmal hemicrania Medication overuse headache SUNCT ( S hort-lasting, U nilateral, N euralgiform headache attacks with C onjunctival injection and T earing) Treatments There are a few potential treatments for hypnic headaches with scientific research to back them up, including caffeine, lithium , and indomethacin. Less consistent treatment options that may be effective include melatonin, beta-blockers, flunarizine, acetazolamide, verapamil, and topiramate. The Sleep Foundation cites research that 40% of individuals who treat their hypnic headaches never deal with them again. However, other research reports fewer than 20% of individuals who seek treatment actually achieve remission. 1. Caffeine 40-60 milligrams of caffeine is an effective treatment for hypnic headache that is well tolerated in most patients. Caffeine may even be preventative against hypnic headaches, not just treatment. Surprisingly, caffeine does not typically interfere with a patient’s sleep. Caffeine is usually the first treatment for hypnic headache — partly because it works so often, partly because it’s so readily available. You can consume caffeine from a cup of coffee, a caffeine pill, or even a strong cup of hot tea. 2. Lithium Lithium carbonate has been reported as an effective treatment for hypnic headaches since the 80s. The best dosage of lithium for this type of headache seems to be 150-600 milligrams per day in single or divided doses, to a serum level of 0.5-1.0 mmol/L. Raskin published the first research touting lithium’s efficacy in treating hypnic headache, and several studies have since been published which corroborate these findings. You need a prescription for lithium carbonate, which is usually used to treat bipolar disorder. 3. Indomethacin Indomethacin (Tivorbex) is an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) which has shown effective in treating hypnic headaches. The best dosage is 25-150 milligrams of indomethacin at bedtime. This NSAID is especially helpful for individuals with hemicranial hypnic headaches or with accompanying autonomic symptoms. (Autonomic features include drooping eyes, uncontrollable crying, runny nose, facial swelling, etc.) Indomethacin is only available by prescription. Healthcare professionals need to be wary of the side effects when prescribing this medicine to older patients. 4. Botox Case reports have suggested a form of Botox as a potential treatment for hypnic headaches. Botulinum toxin type A injection has shown promise as a hypnic headache solution. Invasive treatments like this should be considered with caution since they can more

Sugar Headaches & What You Can Do About Them Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief Sugar plays an important role in your body’s chemistry. In fact, some people may get headaches when they consume too much or too little sugar. A lot of things can cause headaches, including stress, caffeine, high blood pressure, drugs and alcohol, dehydration, poor posture, poor sleep quality , artificial sweeteners, and even sugar. Chiropractic care is an important part of a balanced treatment plan for sugar headaches, in conjunction with dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments. How Spinal Adjustments Impact Headaches Adjustments by an upper cervical chiropractor can positively impact most headaches by relieving pressure on pinched nerves and promoting a healthy nervous system. Studies indicate that spinal manipulative therapy can reduce duration and severity of migraine headaches. Read more: Migraine Headache vs. Non- Migraine Headache Some people have major spinal misalignment. Most people have a little misalignment — enough to cause minor but annoying health problems. Spinal misalignment can cause headaches, migraines, fatigue, chronic inflammation, and many other health issues. Spinal adjustments help correct misalignment, stopping inflammation and allowing the nervous system to work properly. Can being out of alignment cause migraines? Yes, your spine being out of alignment can cause migraines. Not all spinal misalignment leads to migraine headaches, and not all migraines are caused by spinal problems. But a lot of migraines do result from spinal misalignment. Why does sugar cause headaches? Low or high blood sugar may alter the balance of your hormones (such as insulin, epinephrine, cortisol, etc.) in a way that contracts blood vessels in the brain, causing headache pain. Hypoglycemia is when you have low blood sugar levels (below 70 mg/dL). Especially in individuals with diabetes, hypoglycemia can cause headache or migraine attacks through multiple means, primarily hormone dysregulation. Eating less sugar could also result in sugar withdrawal, which may cause lightheadedness, fatigue, anxiety, and head pain. Hyperglycemia is when your blood glucose levels are too high (above 125 mg/dL while fasting, above 180 mg/dL after eating), indicating your body isn’t making enough insulin to process and regulate blood sugar. Though less understood, blood sugar spikes seem to be an independent trigger for headache pain. What do sugar headaches feel like? Sugar headaches feel like dull, throbbing pain on the side of the head, at your temples. Recognizing a Sugar Headache How do I know if I’m getting a sugar headache? If you get a headache within 2 hours after eating, or when you’re feeling hungry, your headache may be caused by diet. If you’re able to measure your blood glucose levels, you can get a better picture of whether sugar is the primary cause.   Who is at risk for sugar headaches? The following conditions increase your risk for sugar headaches: Diabetes (both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes) Eating disorders Alcohol consumption Hormone fluctuations Migraine headaches Cancer of the pancreas Certain medications (primarily prescription insulin; in rare cases SGLT2 inhibitors, beta-blockers, cibenzoline, quinidine, indomethacin, pentamidine, and gatifloxacin) Sugar addiction Do sugar headaches mean diabetes? If you get sugar headaches, your risk of developing type 2 diabetes is higher. However, other conditions may lead to sugar headaches, like eating disorders, hormonal changes, certain medications, and cancer. Diagnosing Sugar Headaches Your doctor may need to diagnose your condition in order to adjust your medication or recommend dietary and lifestyle changes. Discuss the frequency of your headaches in correlation to your eating schedule and blood sugar levels. Let them know any other symptoms that occurred around the time of the headaches. Tell your healthcare provider about your: Current medications Diet Exercise regimen Alcohol consumption Tobacco habits Treating Sugar Headaches Treatment for sugar headaches depends on the root cause. If you have a sugar headache, reducing your sugar intake should ease your head pain. If you haven’t had enough sugar, consume more sugar (like a fruit juice or granola bar) to reduce headache pain. How do I get rid of a sugar headache? You get rid of a sugar headache by getting your blood glucose levels back to normal — whether by eating a snack to increase blood sugar or fasting to decrease the levels. Treating Sugar Headache with the 15-15 Rule The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends you check your blood sugar every 15 minutes when you’re facing this problem. If your blood sugar levels remain below 70 mg/dL after eating 15 grams of carbohydrates, eat another sugary food, like a small amount of non-diet soda or chocolate. Check every 15 minutes. If your blood sugar isn’t over 70 mg/dL, eat another snack with at least 15 grams of carbs. Record every time you measure low blood sugar, so you can tell your doctor next time you visit. Keep the sugary snacks small during these intervals. Eating a lot at once can lead to a blood glucose spike, and a sugar crash later on. This ADA recommendation is called the 15-15 rule. Children may need fewer carbohydrates, so discuss with your doctor. How to Prevent Sugar Headaches Don’t eat too much sugar. Sugar tolerance thresholds are different for every person. Discuss with your doctor or dietitian how frequent your meals should be, and what to include in your diet. Don’t eat too little sugar. Make sure you’re not letting your blood sugar levels drop too low, which leads to multiple symptoms, including head pain. You may need to talk to your doctor or dietitian about adjusting your sugar consumption. What is the best way to avoid sugar headaches? Here are the best ways to prevent sugar headaches: Figure out the right range of sugar to consume in a day; talk with your doctor if you need guidance. Eat simple carbohydrates instead of complex carbs. Avoid processed sugar and opt for whole grains and raw sugar. Drink enough water. Reduce daily stress. Exercise regularly. Get plenty of quality sleep . Don’t skip meals. Eat at regular intervals. Limit extra snack time. Reduce caffeine intake. Avoid alcohol. Quit smoking. Report symptoms to your doctor as soon as you experience them. FAQs How much sugar is too much? More than 100-200 calories of added

Chiropractic Treatment for Migraine Headaches Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief Targeted chiropractic care can treat migraine headaches . The root cause of many headaches involves neck or spine misalignment, which can be addressed by precise chiropractic adjustments. Migraines affect at least 39 million people in the United States alone. It is a needless epidemic when many of these migraine sufferers could see a chiropractor and greatly improve their quality of life. Looking for migraine relief? Dr. Ty Cazoli is the best chiropractor in Denver, Colorado for treating migraines and chronic pain. Schedule your appointment today by filling out this contact form or calling 303-955-8270. How Spinal Adjustments Impact Headaches Adjustments by an upper cervical chiropractor can positively impact most headaches by relieving pressure on pinched nerves and promoting a healthy nervous system. Studies indicate that spinal manipulative therapy can reduce duration and severity of migraine headaches. Read more: Migraine Headache vs. Non- Migraine Headache Some people have major spinal misalignment. Most people have a little misalignment — enough to cause minor but annoying health problems. Spinal misalignment can cause headaches, migraines, fatigue, chronic inflammation, and many other health issues. Spinal adjustments help correct misalignment, stopping inflammation and allowing the nervous system to work properly. Can being out of alignment cause migraines? Yes, your spine being out of alignment can cause migraines. Not all spinal misalignment leads to migraine headaches, and not all migraines are caused by spinal problems. But a lot of migraines do result from spinal misalignment. Benefits of Chiropractic Treatment for Migraines What are the benefits of a chiropractic adjustment for migraines? The evidence-based benefits of a chiropractic manual therapy for migraines include: Relieves chronic migraine pain Decreases duration of migraine Reduces inflammation, which can lead to all sorts of health problems Relieves muscle tension and musculoskeletal pain Improves breathing, which is good for overall well-being Increase blood flow for stress relief and muscular oxygen supply Promotes healthy nervous system, strengthening muscles, including in the neck Possible Risks of Chiropractic Treatment for Migraines Chiropractic care is a safe method of treatment, but risks and side effects are possible. Most side effects occur within the first few hours following spinal adjustment, as a result of muscles and vertebrae settling into their correct position. Clinical trials reveal a lot more adverse effects from prescription and over-the-counter drugs than chiropractic treatment of migraine headaches. In fact, chiropractic care reduces your need for dangerous medications. Can kids get chiropractic care for headache pain? Yes, kids can get chiropractic care. Highly-qualified chiropractors are prepared to provide pain-free, gentle chiropractic adjustments to teens, children, even babies. Almost a million children in America deal with various types of migraines . They need treatment, too. The alternative is anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals that expose them to man-made chemicals and long-term adverse side effects. (There’s a reason that the US government has recently recommended pregnant women should not take ibuprofen.) Factors That May Determine Treatment Chiropractors generally formulate treatment plans on an individual basis. Everyone’s situation is unique, and there are multiple factors that determine your treatment plan, including your medical history, your migraine triggers, and the type of migraine you’re suffering from. What is the best type of chiropractic care for migraines? Upper cervical chiropractic is the best type of chiropractic care for migraines. “ Upper cervical ” refers to the top two vertebrae of the upper spine — the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2) — in the neck area. Adjustments of your neck’s vertebrae are better than many medications at reducing migraine pain and frequency. Type of Migraine Migraine Triggers Personal Medical History Depending on the type of migraine you’re dealing with, chiropractic may or may not be the right treatment choice for you. A lot of migraine patients experience spinal misalignment, but some do not. If you have migraines because of a reason besides spinal issues, a chiropractor may recommend alternate treatments for migraines. (Chiropractic care may still benefit you besides migraine pain.) If you have certain migraine triggers besides posture, injury, motion, etc., talk to your chiropractor or healthcare provider about what is actually triggering your migraines and how to avoid those triggers. In certain cases, chiropractic is not necessary for migraine treatment if dietary or lifestyle changes are all that is required. (Of course, chiropractic care is good not just for migraines, but also for your overall health.) Depending on your personal medical history, your chiropractor may adjust treatment. For example, if you have nutritional deficiencies, they may recommend supplements to complement chiropractic therapy. If you have severe musculoskeletal disorders , your chiropractor will adjust you differently. If you deal with medical anxiety, they will do everything to make you comfortable. Depending on the type of migraine you’re dealing with, chiropractic may or may not be the right treatment choice for you. A lot of migraine patients experience spinal misalignment, but some do not. If you have migraines because of a reason besides spinal issues, a chiropractor may recommend alternate treatments for migraines. (Chiropractic care may still benefit you besides migraine pain.) If you have certain migraine triggers besides posture, injury, motion, etc., talk to your chiropractor or healthcare provider about what is actually triggering your migraines and how to avoid those triggers. In certain cases, chiropractic is not necessary for migraine treatment if dietary or lifestyle changes are all that is required. (Of course, chiropractic care is good not just for migraines, but also for your overall health.) Depending on your personal medical history, your chiropractor may adjust treatment. For example, if you have nutritional deficiencies, they may recommend supplements to complement chiropractic therapy. If you have severe musculoskeletal disorders , your chiropractor will adjust you differently. If you deal with medical anxiety, they will do everything to make you comfortable. Complementary Therapies Conventional doctors and researchers would classify chiropractic care as complementary therapy. (Perhaps if the drugs they prescribed actually worked, chiropractors would be offended.) Other complementary therapies for migraine relief include: Stress management Exercise Physical therapy Massage Acupuncture Trigger point therapy 1. Trigger point therapy Trigger point therapy is a manual soft tissue therapy that releases muscle tension through sustained pressure, posture correction, electrical stimulation,

Spinal Headache: Causes, Prevention, Treatment & Complications Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief A spinal headache is triggered when fluid leaks from your spine. The leakage decreases the fluid pressure around your brain, causing it to sag downward. When the brain sags, it stretches the surrounding nerves, creating intense head pain . There are some predictable risk factors for getting this type of headache. For instance, spinal headaches occur in a third of people who receive a spinal tap (also called a lumbar puncture). Learn the ins and outs of spinal headaches, including causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Then, you can be prepared if you ever wake up with spinal headache. What Is a Spinal Headache? When cerebrospinal fluid leaks from the meninges , your brain tissues and nerves stretch due to the decrease in fluid pressure in which the brain floats. An intense head pain follows this CSF leak. This is a spinal headache. Cerebrospinal fluid ( CSF ): the fluid that envelops the brain Meninges : the tissue that envelops the brain and spinal cord Spinal headaches are also known as: Post-dural puncture headaches Post-lumbar puncture headaches Low-pressure headaches Epidural headaches Causes & Risk Factors Most spinal headaches are caused by a spinal tap. A spinal tap is when a doctor or anesthesiologist inserts analgesics through a spinal needle into the spinal canal in the lower back. Sometimes, the needle can leave a puncture site where spinal fluid leaks out of the epidural space.  Epidural anesthetic is supposed to be injected on the outside of the membrane surrounding the spinal cord, but occasionally the membrane is punctured by mistake. How can I prevent getting a spinal headache? When a doctor performs a spinal tap, they can prevent spinal headaches by opting for a smaller, blunt-tipped spinal needle called a “non-cutting needle” or “ atraumatic needle.” A non-cutting needle reduces the risk of leakage and, therefore, the risk of spinal headaches. The most common reasons you might need a spinal tap are: Epidural, such as during childbirth Spinal anesthesia Diagnosing an illness, such as meningitis, MS ( multiple sclerosis ), or brain cancer Other causes of spinal headaches include a ruptured cyst on the spinal cord and head/face/skull trauma. Either of these may cause spinal fluid to leak, resulting in low CSF pressure around the brain (intracranial hypotension). Knowing the risk factors can help you understand what type of headache you are experiencing. The risk factors for spinal headaches include: Spinal tap procedure in the last two weeks Recent head injury Pregnancy Low BMI (body mass index) Age 18 to 30 years old Female (women are more likely to get a spinal headache) Visit us at Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic. Contact us and give us a call at 303-955-8270 to schedule an appointment! Common Symptoms of Spinal Headaches What does a spinal headache feel like? A spinal headache is described as a throbbing pain in the front or back of the head that radiates into the neck and shoulders and gets worse when you move. The most common symptoms of a spinal headache include: Head pain : Unilateral (either in the front OR back of the head, not both), throbbing, dull, intense or mild, and gets worse when standing, sitting, coughing, or sneezing.  Neck pain and/or neck stiffness Back stiffness or back pain Nausea , vomiting Dizziness Ringing in the ears (called tinnitus) Hearing loss Blurred vision, double vision Sensitivity to bright lights Spinal headaches are typically more severe for people when standing or sitting. Lying down (especially on bed rest) often alleviates some of the head pain. Are spinal headaches dangerous? Spinal headaches are not usually dangerous. Often, the body self-heals the puncture hole in the dura mater surrounding the spinal cord, allowing fluid pressure to be restored. How long do spinal headaches last? A spinal headache can last for hours or potentially days. If a headache lasts any longer than a day, you should schedule a consultation immediately. There are rare but life-threatening complications that may arise from persistent spinal headaches. Does a spinal headache feel like a migraine? Yes, spinal headaches share a lot of symptoms with other headaches, such as tension headaches or migraines . When to Seek Help Spinal headaches usually go away with no treatment. 2 out of 10 people who suffer from a spinal headache can often relieve pain with chiropractic care and all-natural or over-the-counter painkillers. But there are a few reasons you should seek medical advice when you get a spinal headache. When are symptoms serious enough to see a healthcare professional? If your headaches recur If you experience severe headache pain If your headache doesn’t go away after 24 hours If, after a spinal tap, you have difficulty urinating or lose feeling in your back/legs   How would a doctor diagnose a spinal headache? A doctor will gather your medical history to evaluate your risk factors when diagnosing a spinal headache. If you have had a lumbar puncture in the past couple of weeks, diagnosis is pretty simple, and further testing is not needed. If you have not had a recent spinal tap, the doctor might use an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to find the origin of your spinal headache. An MRI lets the doctor look into the brain and spine for leaking cerebrospinal fluid. Can a spinal headache go away on its own? Yes, 8 out of 10 spinal headaches go away on their own without treatment. For the other 2 out of 10, fret not. There are some natural treatments, such as all-natural painkillers and chiropractic care, that may provide relief. Effective Spinal Headache Remedies Treating spinal headaches doesn’t have to be complicated. At Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic, we believe in treating the root cause of your headache. How do you get rid of a spinal headache ? Here are some all-natural remedies to get rid of a spinal headache: 1. Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Chiropractic care is the best way to solve issues with cerebrospinal fluid levels. Upper cervical chiropractic care is effective at normalizing cerebrospinal fluid pressure. A lot of research supports chiropractic care’s ability to treat headaches. Chiropractic alignment also reduces the physical stress that can lead to headaches. We have helped so many people recover completely. Chiropractic