Headache disorders are real-not just in the mind
If headache bothers you, it needs medical attention.Of the Entire World Population
%
have had a headache at some point in time
%
HAVE EPISODES OF HEADACHE
%
HAVE HAD A SEVERE HEADACHE
%
Have recurring Severe Headache
HEADACHE IS SO COMMON
yet often neglected and untreated.
Affects employment/studies and decreases Productivity
strains relationships and affects Family Life
increases risk of depression by 3 times in those with severe headaches
HEADACHE IS TREATABLE
The frequency and the Suffering can be reduced markedly.
The key is
Right Diagnosis
There are more than 200 types of headaches. Some are harmless and some are life-threatening. The description of the headache and findings on neurological examination, determine whether additional tests are needed and what treatment is best.
Right Treatment
The main goals of treatment are two fold.
ABORTIVE THERAPY
Reduce the suffering during an episode of headache by short term pain relieving agents.
PROPHYLACTIC THERAPY
Reduce the frequency of episodes by long term specific medications.
Lifestyle Modifications
Though many headaches have a genetic predilection, its the patients LIFESTYLE and MENTAL HEALTH that decides the current frequency and the associated or secondary suffering in the form of stress, depression, lack of sleep etc. So, along with the prescribed treatment, the complete success is achieved only if patient adheres to a healthy lifestyle and practices emotional and mental hygiene.
There are many drugs and combinations to choose from and your specialist can help to decide which drug is best for your headache type along with other co-morbidities.