Headaches: Causes, Treatments, & Types Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief Did you know that your average headache relief medication is simply hiding the  symptoms  of your headache? Imagine if proper treatment was to address the  root cause of headaches . 45 million Americans suffer  from chronic headaches each year. Up to 4% of the world’s population experience chronic  daily  headaches. There are many different types of headaches, such as migraines or tension headaches. Some types stem from different root causes. At Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic, we believe in treating the underlying causes of headaches.  A headache is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong — and you can often fix what’s truly wrong with the right care. Even some traditional medicines are just masking the symptoms of your headaches, instead of treating the underlying cause. In other words, you may not have a headache because you are ginger-deficient. Let’s take a look at what a headache is, what causes them, and how to treat the root causes. What causes a headache? A headache (AKA head pain) is caused by many different headache triggers. For instance,  a primary headache is likely caused by abnormal activity around structures in the head that are pain-sensitive. This can involve muscular activity, blood vessels, and nerves in the head or neck. A tension headache can be caused by stress and bad posture. Another common cause is strenuous activity. However, a secondary headache has all sorts of potential root causes. You can get a secondary headache due to dehydration, medication overuse, caffeine withdrawal, allergies, infections, or issues with your spine. It is important that you consult a healthcare professional to help identify the root cause of your headache. It may be a simple fix, such as diet, stress relief, or a chiropractic adjustment. If you live in the greater Denver area,  click here to request an appointment  at Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic. We reserve Fridays for out-of-town patients. Types of Headaches Primary Headaches Primary headaches are thought to be triggered by issues in your blood vessels — often benign issues that only lead to headaches, nothing else. Primary headache disorders make up  more than 90%  of headache-related pain. There are four main types of primary headache: tension, migraine, cluster headaches, and hemicrania continua. Tension Headaches Migraines Cluster Headaches Hemicrania Continua First on our list,  tension headaches are the result of bad posture or stress.  This causes the back of the neck and your scalp muscles to tighten. A tension headache feels like the sides of the head are squeezing in. A tension-type headache is the most common type of headache. Women over 20 years old  are at highest risk. Noise and stuffy environments can strengthen a tension headache. Tension headaches can last for minutes or days. Secondary Headaches Secondary headaches are caused by an underlying medical condition instead of just an abnormality in your blood vessels. These are less common, but still important to understand. Since it is important to treat the root cause of your headache — not just mask the symptoms — it can be helpful to see all the possible secondary causes laid out for you. Here are the twelve common types of headaches (secondary) you need to understand : Migraine headaches are the second most common kind of headache. Chronic migraines affect millions of Americans every year. Many consider this the worst headache you can get. Migraine symptoms include intense throbbing pain, stiff neck, and anxiety. It can be accompanied by light or noise sensitivity. Where tension headaches cause tension on both sides of your head, a migraine is usually on only one side of your head. Migraines can last hours, or even days. Some people will experience an  “aura” (a set of visual symptoms)  before a migraine attack: Bright spots Flashing lights Moving lines Temporary loss of vision (in severe cases) The third most common primary headache is the cluster headache, which affects about a million people in the United States each year. A cluster headache does not throb. They are often felt behind an eye or on one side of the head only. Cluster headaches can occur multiple times a day, and they are more common in adult men. A cluster headache is likely triggered by increased blood flow due to widening blood vessels. This is a rare headache disorder. Hemicrania continua exhibits headache symptoms but usually only on one side of the head. The cause is unknown, but hemicrania continua persists, with only a handful of documented remissions. First on our list,  tension headaches are the result of bad posture or stress.  This causes the back of the neck and your scalp muscles to tighten. A tension headache feels like the sides of the head are squeezing in. A tension-type headache is the most common type of headache. Women over 20 years old  are at highest risk. Noise and stuffy environments can strengthen a tension headache. Tension headaches can last for minutes or days. Secondary Headaches Secondary headaches are caused by an underlying medical condition instead of just an abnormality in your blood vessels. These are less common, but still important to understand. Since it is important to treat the root cause of your headache — not just mask the symptoms — it can be helpful to see all the possible secondary causes laid out for you. Here are the twelve common types of headaches (secondary) you need to understand : Migraine headaches are the second most common kind of headache. Chronic migraines affect millions of Americans every year. Many consider this the worst headache you can get. Migraine symptoms include intense throbbing pain, stiff neck, and anxiety. It can be accompanied by light or noise sensitivity. Where tension headaches cause tension on both sides of your head, a migraine is usually on only one side of your head. Migraines can last hours, or even days. Some people will experience an  “aura” (a set of visual symptoms)  before a migraine attack: Bright spots Flashing lights Moving lines Temporary loss of vision (in severe cases) The third most common primary headache is

Migraine vs. Headache: Differences & Treatments Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief Have you ever asked someone if they have a headache, and they said, “No, it’s a migraine”? You both are correct. A migraine is a specific type of headache. Migraine headaches have unique migraine symptoms though. They’re also a leading cause of workplace disability. Migraines and other types of headache pain require unique treatments, too Below, I’ll discuss the differences between migraines and all other headache types — and how to effectively treat both. Headaches: Types & Causes There are several types of headaches other than migraine headaches. Let me briefly run through the most important types. Tension headaches  are the most common headache type. Symptoms include tightening in the back of the neck and scalp, as well as pain on both sides of the head. Stress and bad posture are generally the triggers of tension-type headaches. Cluster headaches  are the third most common headache type.  Cluster headaches  are not throbbing. They can be felt behind the eye or on one side of the head. These are thought to be caused by increased blood flow from widening blood vessels. Cervicogenic headaches  are brought on by bad posture, a pinched nerve, osteoarthritis, whiplash injury, or  prolapsed disc. They can mimic symptoms of migraines, and are most effectively treated with upper cervical chiropractic care. Medication overuse headaches , formerly known as rebound headaches, happen when you decrease the dosage or altogether stop taking a medicine that you were taking too much of in the first place, such as acetaminophen. Sinus headaches occur when your sinuses are inflamed, typically due to the medical condition sinusitis. This triggers unusual pressure which causes a headache. There are more types of headaches less common than the ones I just mentioned, such as sugar headaches and caffeine headaches. Read in depth about all the headache types  here .   Migraine: Symptoms & Triggers Migraine sufferers often claim their migraine pain is worse than a normal headache. They’re right; the symptoms can be worse. How do you know you have a migraine?  The symptoms of migraine headaches can be easy to spot, whether people experience a mild or severe migraine attack:  Intense, throbbing pain on only one side of the head  Nausea, upset stomach  Light, noise, and smell sensitivity  bnormal body temperature  Dizziness Unfortunately, there are also prodrome symptoms, which means symptoms that occur in the day or two leading up to a migraine attack: Anxiety, irritability Stiff neck Constant yawning Constipation What is migraine with aura?  Migraine headaches can present with  or  without aura, which is a set of visual disturbances. Symptoms of aura  may appear thirty minutes before migraine head pain starts. They include:  Bright spots  Flashing lights  Moving lines  Hearing sounds that aren’t there  In severe cases, temporary loss of vision What can trigger migraines?  Common migraine triggers include: Stress Certain foods Fasting Physical activity Lack of sleep, change in sleep pattern Smoking Excess alcohol Certain smells Changes in weather Menstruation or other hormonal changes How can you tell the difference between a headache & migraine? The differences between migraines and other headaches can be subtle. Sometimes, it’s more obvious. Migraines are typically more painful and debilitating. Migraine headaches usually last for between four and 72 hours, whereas tension headaches last between 30 minutes and one week, if left untreated. The most common headache — tension headache — triggers pressure around both your temples and forehead. But if the pain is beyond moderate, it’s probably a migraine. Can a headache turn into a migraine?  For an unfortunate few, tension headaches can trigger migraines. This is likely due to the  stress  of a headache causing a migraine to develop. Although we always encourage patients to treat underlying causes of headaches, taking a pain reliever can stop the tension headache before it leads to a more painful migraine. Effective Treatments for Headache + Migraine We compiled a list of easy treatment options for getting rid of your headache symptoms or chronic migraines. It’s wise to discuss some of these lifestyle changes with your doctor or neurologist. Chiropractic care  is a common and  effective treatment  for headaches and  can relieve migraine pain. There’s a reason we at Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic believe in the power of spinal alignment — we’ve seen it work hundreds of times. If you live in the greater Denver area,  click here to request an appointment  with us. We reserve Fridays for out-of-town patients. A healthy diet  is key to preventing migraines. Avoid food additives. If you are prone to headaches, try cutting out potential migraine triggers like wheat and dairy. Supplementing riboflavin (vitamin B2) or magnesium   has shown promise  in  preventing migraines. Good hydration   may prevent headaches  as well. A  regular sleep schedule  is key. Not only does a good night’s sleep  reduce stress , a sleep routine can  decrease potential migraine triggers. Excessive caffeine consumption  may lead to headaches. But  caffeine withdrawal  is a more common  cause of headaches. Relaxation techniques  can reduce stress:  meditation , yoga,  going outside. Stress is a trigger for both tension headaches  and  migraines. If you’re looking for temporary pain relief, there are a few options — both over-the-counter medicines and all-natural remedies. Keep in mind, the pharmaceuticals in this list come with some potentially nasty side effects, particularly when used in excess. Curcumin Ginger Peppermint oil Lavender oil Aspirin Acetaminophen Sumatriptan Blood pressure medication NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), like ibuprofen and naproxen In Summary  Migraines can be debilitating. Usually on just one side of the head, migraine attacks can result in nausea or dizziness.  An aura (visual symptoms) can occur thirty minutes or so before a migraine. Symptoms of migraine with aura include seeing moving lines and bright lights.  The most common type of headache is tension headache, caused by stress or bad posture. This usually occurs on both sides of the head.  What is the difference between a headache and a migraine? Simply put, migraines are worse — a leading cause of workplace disability.  If you have sudden and severe headaches, especially after a head injury, seek medical attention immediately. Also, if a headache causes vomiting, vision loss, difficulty speaking or moving, or partial paralysis, get to a doctor right away.

Basilar Migraine: Triggers, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief Millions of Americans suffer from migraines every year, but one specific type of migraine comes with some trippy visual symptoms. Basilar migraines are a strange phenomenon, not well understood in the conventional medical community. These migraines start in the brain stem and are preceded by an “aura,” which is a set of visual symptoms, like seeing flashing lights that are not actually there. It can be important to recognize the symptoms of a basilar migraine as well as discuss the potential causes of this medical condition. The pharmaceutical industry thrives on masking symptoms but leaving root causes untouched. That way, the underlying cause keeps causing problems, and you have to continue buying medication. At Denver Upper Cervical Care,  our patients  actually get better. Each person’s body has the ability to heal — if we simply address the root cause. Basilar migraines are a bit mysterious, but there are several known risk factors that you can reduce. You can also learn about the 16 best treatment options if you read below. What are basilar migraines? Are they dangerous? Basilar migraines are a migraine type that lasts about an hour and begins in your brain stem. Scientists are not 100% sure what exactly the cause is. Many believe basilar migraines occur due to vasoconstriction, or the narrowing of blood vessels. The muscular wall of the vessel tightens and constricts blood flow. These types of migraines are sometimes called basilar artery migraines because some believe that a spasm of the  basilar artery  might be the main culprit behind these migraine attacks. Actually, this is a less and less common theory, and “basilar migraine” is no longer the recommended term. What is a migraine with brainstem aura? Are basilar migraines dangerous? Migraine with brainstem aura is the most recent term recommended for use by the International Headache Society (IHS). However, both “basilar migraine” and “migraine with brainstem aura” can still be used interchangeably at this point. An aura can be scary the first time you experience it. A typical aura occurs less than an hour before the head pain starts. A migraine aura is a  set of visual symptoms  that can accompany a migraine. All basilar migraines come with aura symptoms. Basilar migraines are sometimes called Bickerstaff migraines, named after Edwin R. Bickerstaff  who first identified  the condition in 1961. This relatively rare type of migraine headache  can  be dangerous. Basilar migraines seem to increase your risk of ischemic stroke, especially in women who take contraceptives. Also, basilar migraines can decrease your level of consciousness or awareness. This means you don’t want to get a basilar migraine while you’re driving. Migraine with brainstem aura is the most recent term recommended for use by the International Headache Society (IHS). However, both “basilar migraine” and “migraine with brainstem aura” can still be used interchangeably at this point. An aura can be scary the first time you experience it. A typical aura occurs less than an hour before the head pain starts. A migraine aura is a  set of visual symptoms  that can accompany a migraine. All basilar migraines come with aura symptoms. Basilar migraines are sometimes called Bickerstaff migraines, named after Edwin R. Bickerstaff  who first identified  the condition in 1961. This relatively rare type of migraine headache  can  be dangerous. Basilar migraines seem to increase your risk of ischemic stroke, especially in women who take contraceptives. Also, basilar migraines can decrease your level of consciousness or awareness. This means you don’t want to get a basilar migraine while you’re driving. Symptoms of a Basilar Migraine Although basilar migraines feature aura symptoms, which can be a little frightening, these  symptoms of  migraines with brainstem aura   include more than just visual symptoms. Headache pain on one or both sides of your head Vertigo Lack of coordination Confusion Slurred speech Nausea Double vision Temporary loss of hearing, ringing in your ears Loss of muscle control Loss of consciousness Aura symptoms (last for about 20 minutes, occur before migraine): Seeing flashing lights Seeing spots, lines Seeing static Weakness, exhaustion Numbness in head, hands, or face Temporary vision loss Diagnosis There are several medical conditions easily confused with basilar migraines. A clinical diagnosis is very important to distinguish between a basilar-type migraine and a brain disorder. The International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) 3rd edition provides us with  detailed diagnostic criteria : At least  two  migraine attacks (which fulfill 2 and 3 below) Aura, consisting of temporary visual/sensory/speech symptoms, but no motor or retinal symptoms At least  two  of the following symptoms: Slurred speech (dysarthria) Double vision (diplopia) Temporary loss of hearing (hypacusis) Ringing in your ears (tinnitus) Loss of muscle control (ataxia) Numbness on both sides of your body (bilateral paresthesia) Vertigo Decreased level of consciousness At least  two  of the following characteristics: At least one aura symptom over the course of five minutes Two or more aura symptoms occur in succession Aura symptoms last 5-60 minutes At least one aura symptom is unilateral The aura is followed by headache pain Transient ischemic stroke and other similar diagnoses have been ruled out   To rule out neurological diseases, you may need to see a neurologist. The neurologist may administer a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or computer tomography (CT) scan to rule out a number of brain disorders, or an electroencephalogram (EEG) to rule out seizures. What conditions might your doctor want to rule out before treating you for migraines with brainstem aura? Stroke Epilepsy Meningitis Vestibular disorder Vertebrobasilar disease Meniere’s disease Brainstem arteriovenous malformation Brain tumor Basilar migraines are similar in nature to familial hemiplegic migraines.  Hemiplegic migraines  uniquely include weakness on one side of your body, as well as trouble speaking. A clear diagnosis will distinguish between the two. Causes & Risk Factors Scientists do not know exactly why basilar migraines occur. But there are certain risk factors that have been attributed to basilar migraine attacks: Stress (physical or emotional) Lack of sleep (or, in rarer cases, excessive sleep) Poor posture Motion sickness Alcohol Caffeine Dietary nitrites (like in hot dogs) Being overweight,

What Causes Body Aches? Remedies & Red Flags Exploring the Unique Causes of Headaches in Denver and How Chiropractic Care Provides Relief Whether we sit around all day, or we work our fingers to the bone, our bodies ache. Especially when a global pandemic forces most of us to spend hours and hours sitting around the house, it is important to understand how body aches are triggered and how to remedy them. Body aches are when parts of your body experience a continuous dull pain.  Though body aches vary in  intensity and frequency , they are very common. But just because they are common doesn’t mean you have to live with them. Aching can be caused by several various factors, such as tiredness, stress, a cold, or even a vitamin deficiency. Below, you will learn about remedies for body aches, as well as when you should seek help. Causes of Body Aches So many factors can cause your body to ache. You might ask, “Does lack of activity make my body ache?” Yes, sitting for a long time, working for a long time, the flu — a lot of triggers can make your body ache: Sitting, or standing in the same position for a long period of time Poor posture Prolonged physical labor Chronic fatigue syndrome Lack of sleep Stress Dehydration Flu (influenza) Common cold Pneumonia Mononucleosis (also called “mono” or “the kissing disease”) Other bacterial and viral infections Lyme disease (infection from a tick bite) Fluid retention (which can be caused by congestive heart failure, hypothyroidism, etc.) Vitamin D deficiency (AKA hypocalcemia) Arthritis Anemia Hypokalemia Fibromyalgia Lupus Multiple sclerosis (also known as MS) Myositis Withdrawal from drugs or alcohol Certain medications (for example, blood pressure meds or statins) Read Next: Can Chiropractic Care Treat Trigeminal Neuralgia? Remedies for Ongoing Body Aches There are ways to alleviate the common symptoms of body aches, and there are ways to address the underlying causes. Although we suggest addressing these root causes , you may also want immediate relief from muscle aches and joint pain. Rest & Relaxation Fight Dehydration Chiropractic Care Over-the-Counter Medications All Natural Pain Relievers Rest & Relaxation Rest  is a wonderful thing. Your body needs time to repair and recuperate. Putting your legs up and unwinding from a stressful day can prevent or alleviate body aches. Sleep  can take it a step further. Getting a full night’s sleep (seven to eight hours a night) has been linked to less pain throughout the body. If you’re having trouble sleeping, try taking a warm shower or drinking hot tea an hour before bedtime. Cutting out blue light emissions  is one way to get high-quality sleep. Technology like your phone and television emit blue light, which tricks your brain into thinking the sun is still up.  Turn off technology  an hour before bedtime, so your mind can naturally want to fall asleep. Stress relief  should reduce your anxiety  and  reduce your risk for body aches — not to mention a  lot  of other medical conditions. Prolonged stress weakens your immune system and has been linked to a lot of nasty diseases. Relaxation techniques  include: Meditation Yoga Acupuncture Massage Having a warm bath Enjoying the outdoors Spending less time on social media Share your feelings of stress with someone you trust, like a friend or therapist Fight Dehydration Drink plenty of fluids . Dehydration can cause headaches and muscle weakness. Prevent these aches by staying hydrated. Other symptoms of dehydration to look out for include: Dark urine Exhaustion Disorientation Dry mouth or tongue Extreme thirst Chiropractic Care Chiropractic care can help you when you’re feeling achy. Chiropractic adjustments  have been shown  to reduce neck pain and  low back pain. Regular visits ensure that your skeletal base is providing balanced support to each segment of your body. Not only does chiropractic manipulation help cure acute and chronic pain, it has been shown to  alleviate headaches  and boost your immune system’s communication. If you live in the greater Denver area, click here  to request an appointment at Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic. For your convenience, we reserve Fridays for out-of-town patients. Over-the-Counter Medications Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs  (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen or aspirin, are known to reduce pain and inflammation. They treat the symptoms and not the causes, but can be an effective way to relieve short-term pain. However, many avoid overuse of NSAIDs due to  their side effects. Acetaminophen  (Tylenol) is another over-the-counter medication you can take for pain relief. For some, acetaminophen is a great way to reduce flu symptoms. All Natural Pain Relievers Ginger  is well-known for  its ability to reduce  swelling, inflammation, and general pain. This makes it the perfect all-natural pain reliever that you can find in a dietary supplement or on your spice rack. Curcumin  is the primary component in turmeric. Curcumin has been shown to  reduce aches and pains. Studies show that curcumin is antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and even anti-cancer. Though the bioavailability of curcumin from the spice turmeric is low, you can find curcumin in dietary supplement form. Lavender  is a known natural pain reliever. Lavender oil and  lavender aromatherapy  are both research-backed methods of getting rid of body aches. Rosemary  essential oil is a common analgesic, which means  it relieves pain. Rosemary essential oil can help you say goodbye to body aches. Peppermint  is a  commonly used pain therapy. Whether via essential oil or via aromatherapy, peppermint has been used to alleviate abdominal pain, shoulder pain, and general aching. Cloves  are another popular all-natural pain reliever. Clove oil contains eugenol, which is  an anti-inflammatory agent. A lot of pain comes from inflammation, so reducing inflammation can lead to less body aches. Feverfew  is the name given to a flower by the scientific name  Tanacetum parthenium.  It “behaves as a  potent pain reliever ” in all sorts of cases. Inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain, acute pain — feverfew seems to relieve all kinds of aching. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement. Some may interact poorly with synthetic drugs you may be taking. When It’s Time to Call Your Doctor “How do I know when a body ache is serious?” You know when a body ache is serious when it is accompanied by warning signs that indicate a dangerous root cause.

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