Heal Your Headache

Synopsis

A three-step program that puts headache sufferers back in control of their lives. "A must read for all individuals with migraine!"-Ronald J. Tusa, M.D., PH.D., Professor of Neurology and Otolaryngology, Dizziness and Balance Center, Emory University Based on the breakthrough understanding that virtually all headaches are forms of migraine-because migraine is not a specific type of headache, but the built-in mechanism that causes headaches of all kinds, along with neck stiffness, sinus congestion, dizziness, and other problems-Dr. Buchholz's Heal Your Headache offers a simple, transforming program.Step 1: Avoid the "Quick Fix." Too often painkillers only make matters worse because of the crippling complication known as rebound.Step 2: Reduce your triggers. The crux of the program: a migraine diet that eliminate the foods that push headache sufferers over the top.Step 3: Raise your threshold. When diet and other lifestyle changes aren't enough, preventive medication can help stay the course. That's it. In three steps, you can turn your headache problems around.Includes answers to questions like: ·What is a migraine anyway? ·Why do I get more headaches than most people? ·Of all the potential dietary triggers, what are the major culprits? ·Will my headaches get better when I get older? ·Why does the weather give me headaches? ·How long will it take me to get over rebound when I stop taking my Excedrin? ·Are my children doomed to suffer from headaches? ·Why do I wake up every morning with a headache?This title was updated in November 2021 to reflect the latest medical advice.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Causes of Headaches

* Types of headaches: Tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches are the most common types.
* Triggers: Stress, dehydration, poor posture, certain foods, and hormonal changes can trigger headaches.
* Medical conditions: Some underlying medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or a brain tumor, can also cause headaches.

Example: Emily, a high school student, experiences tension headaches almost daily due to stress from exams and homework.

Chapter 2: Preventing Headaches

* Lifestyle changes: Reducing stress, getting enough sleep, and eating a healthy diet can help prevent headaches.
* Ergonomics: Using proper posture and equipment at work and home can minimize muscle tension.
* Trigger avoidance: Identifying and avoiding known triggers can significantly reduce headache frequency.

Example: John, a software developer, switched to an ergonomic chair and started taking regular breaks to stretch and move around. This helped reduce his tension headaches related to prolonged sitting.

Chapter 3: Treating Acute Headaches

* Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary relief from headache pain.
* Non-drug therapies: Heat or cold therapy, massage, and relaxation techniques can also help alleviate headache symptoms.
* Preventative medications: For frequent or severe headaches, doctors may prescribe preventive medications, such as triptans for migraines or beta-blockers for tension headaches.

Example: Sarah, who suffers from migraines, keeps a diary to track her headaches and identify her triggers. She takes a triptan medication at the onset of her migraines, which significantly reduces her pain and discomfort.

Chapter 4: When to See a Doctor

* Concerning symptoms: Seek medical attention if your headaches are accompanied by fever, nausea, vomiting, or neurological symptoms (e.g., weakness, numbness).
* Persistent or worsening headaches: If headaches become more frequent or severe, or if they do not respond to home treatments, it's important to see a doctor.
* Underlying medical conditions: Headaches can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that requires further investigation.

Example: Michael, a 45-year-old man, experienced sudden, severe headaches that were accompanied by nausea and vomiting. An MRI scan revealed a brain tumor that required immediate medical attention.

Chapter 5: Long-Term Management Strategies

* Cognitive-behavioral therapy: This therapy helps individuals manage stress, anxiety, and negative thoughts that can contribute to headaches.
* Biofeedback: Patients learn to control their physiological responses, such as muscle tension and blood pressure, which can help reduce headache frequency and severity.
* Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote relaxation and reduce pain.

Example: Karen, a chronic headache sufferer, enrolled in a cognitive-behavioral therapy program. She learned coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety, which significantly reduced the frequency and duration of her headaches.