Chronic headaches are seen in 3 to 5% of the population around the globe. This means that these people have a headache for more than 15 days out of a 30-day period. Recent research has revealed that people in this situation may actually be losing brain tissue.
Types of Chronic Headaches
There are a number of different types of chronic headaches. These include:
- Medication overuse or rebound headaches
- Hemicrania continua – only affecting one side of the head and face
- Tension headaches
- Migraines – although neurological in origin, head pain is one major symptom
Research comparing the brains of those suffering from chronic headaches with those who do not suffer from them reveals that non-sufferers do not lose brain tissue over time. However, those suffering from chronic headaches do indeed have a loss of brain tissue, and the longer they suffer, the more tissue is lost.
Is a Migraine a Headache? What is the Difference?
When a person thinks of a migraine, one may generally assume it is just a really bad headache. It is important to understand, however, that head pain is simply one of the symptoms of a migraine and it is not even always present when someone has a migraine. Other symptoms include:
- Pulsing or throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and some odors
- Nausea and vomiting
- Visual disturbances
Although migraines are not really headaches, sufferers still do experience some loss of brain tissue. With migraines, changes in the brain may be the source of head pain, whereas with headaches pain in the head is the reason for the loss of tissue.
Help for Chronic Headaches and Migraines
Whether one has headaches or migraines, the main thing a person will want to know is where to find relief. A link has been seen with both of these conditions and a misalignment in the upper neck vertebrae. If one of the top bones of the neck is out of place, it can place pressure on the brainstem, hindering blood flow and communication throughout the body. At Upper Cervical Hawaii, we use a gentle technique to realign these bones. Often this is all that is needed to see the end of headaches and migraines.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Breuwet, call our Honolulu office at 808-201-1324. You can also click the button below.
If you are outside of the local area you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.
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