What are the symptoms of a headache?
Common symptoms of a headache include:
- Pain in the head or face
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Nausea or vomiting
- Tightness or pressure in the forehead or back of the head
- Pain that affects one side or both sides of the head
What causes a headache?
There are many possible reasons for headaches, including:
- Tension in the muscles
- Stress or anxiety
- Dehydration
- Lack of sleep
- Certain foods or drinks
- Hormonal changes
- Illnesses like the flu or cold
How common are headaches?
Headaches are very common. Nearly everyone will experience a headache at some point in their life. Some people may have them frequently, while others may have them only occasionally.
Who is more likely to get headaches?
Some people are more likely to experience headaches, including:
- People with high stress levels
- Those who do not drink enough water
- People who do not get enough sleep
- Women, especially due to hormonal changes
- People who have a family history of headaches
How can I treat a headache?
There are several ways to help relieve headaches, such as:
- Taking over-the-counter pain relief medication like paracetamol, aspirin or ibuprofen
- Drinking plenty of water
- Resting in a quiet, dark room
- Applying a cold or warm compress to the head or neck
- Practising relaxation techniques like deep breathing
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How to prevent headaches?
You can help prevent headaches by:
- Staying hydrated by drinking enough water
- Getting regular sleep
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques
- Avoiding known headache triggers like certain foods
- Maintaining a consistent eating schedule
Final thoughts
Headaches are common and can happen to anyone. If you are concerned about your headaches or if they are impacting your life, speak to your GP or healthcare provider for further guidance.
