Headaches and Migraines

Before we can get to how to relieve a headache, it's important to ask “What kind of headache do I have?” Triggers and symptoms for each type of headache can vary. 

Tension-Type Headaches (or TTH) is the most common type of headache and is sometimes called a “muscle contraction headache” or simply a “stress headache.” Tension headache symptoms can last hours or days and cause pain with tight, constant pressure on the head, neck, or forehead from muscle contraction. Common causes are stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, jaw clenching, and missed meals.

A migraine is a severe headache that can last anywhere between four and 72 hours, if left untreated. Migraine symptoms include throbbing localized pain, sensitivity to light, sensitivity to sound, nausea and vomiting. Roughly one-third of migraine sufferers can predict an oncoming migraine from a visual disturbance known as an “aura.” Common triggers include stress, anxiety, hormonal changes, bright/flashing lights, lack of food, lack of sleep, and certain dietary substances.

Cluster headaches are considered the most severe type of headache. Cluster headaches occur in “cluster periods” ranging from every other day to 8 times a day and can last anywhere from 15 minutes to three hours. Pain associated with a cluster headache feels like a stabbing pain behind or around the eye, usually on one side. Other symptoms of a cluster headache include nasal congestion, tearing, a running nose, facial and forehead swelling, constriction of pupils, and eyelid swelling. Cluster headaches are most common in those who smoke or drink.

Occipital neuralgia is caused by injured or inflamed occipital nerves that run in the back of the scalp. Typically, it presents with headaches that cause piercing pain in the back of the neck or head.

The Revive Spine and Pain Care team can diagnose headaches during a comprehensive history and physical examination. In addition, we may also request diagnostic tests such as an MRI, X-ray, or CT.

⦁ Oral medications

⦁ Occipital nerve blocks

⦁ Botox injections for Migraines and Occipital Neuralgia

⦁ Sphenopalatine Ganglion Blocks for Cluster Headaches

⦁ Trigeminal Nerve Blocks