Headaches and Migraines

Image: A man rubs his temples, a woman looks on.

Many people suffer from headaches which range from unpleasant to unbearable. But, as you know from your own experience, there are headaches and then there are headaches.

What type of headache do you have?

Headaches can be divided into two major groups:

Primary headaches are all those which do not have another medical condition as their cause. The headache is the actual (primary) disorder itself.
Secondary headaches on the other hand are all those which are caused by another condition. Secondary headaches may also be triggered when certain substances are consumed; in addition to alcohol, these may include caffeine, nicotine, nitrites used to preserve meat, fish and sausages and the flavour enhancer monosodium glutamate.

Migraine

Migraine is a biological disorder that affects the central nervous system. In some cases, migraine is hereditary. Along with excruciating head pain, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound greatly affect a person’s ability to cope with everyday life.

Women are much more badly affected than men – with three female sufferers to every male.

Warning Signs of a Migraine Attack

Having cravings for certain foods
Feeling tired or being hyperactive even though you have had a good night’s sleep
Being irritable or in a bad mood for no apparent reason
Feeling depressed or anxious

Reduce Pain of Tension Headaches or Migraine Attack

In the case of tension headaches or migraines the pain can often be treated if 1000 milligrams (two Extra Strength pills) of ASPIRIN are taken at the onset of pain. If you suffer from migraine pain, ASPIRIN can work for you.

Image: A man rubs his temples, hands are clenched.

Did you know…

There may be ways to reduce the pain of, or even prevent, your migraines. Keep track of your pain with a pain diary and check with your doctor if you experience recurrent, persistent or severe head pain.