Though it’s by far the most popular type that causes headaches, using the term “stress” isn’t the most appropriate one.
Stress appears to be the new norm in this moment And a greater amount of stress could cause health issues.
The increased stress levels are believed to trigger headaches, however even though “stress headaches” might be a reasonable description of what’s happening within your body but it’s not an exact diagnosis. This article will help you learn about headaches caused by stress, and ways to ease the pain.
What exactly is”stress” headache “stress” headache?
As per Ellen Drexler, MD, neurologists with board certification from New York, stress headaches aren’t officially classified as headaches within the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3) however, they can be more accurately defined as “tension-type” or tension headaches.
“Tension-type headaches can be distinguished by the absence migraine-related manifestations,” explains Dr. Drexler. “They are more likely to occur at both ends of the skull, experience like a pressure feeling and can be aggravated by head movements.” “They’d be the typical migraine that ranges from mild to very severe, with pressure on the side and back of the head.”
Tension headaches are among the most frequently reported headaches, according to the National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus website. They are described as discomfort or pain in the scalp, head or neck. They are typically associated with muscle tightness. As per Susan Broner, MD, associate professor of clinical neurology at Weill Cornell Medical College, tension headaches affect about 70% of the population and range between 30 minutes and 72 hours. It is also necessary to have an history of having tension headaches to be diagnosed effectively with these. “You must have had at minimum 10 headaches for the doctor to determine the cause,” says the doctor “According to Dr. Broner.
Stress headaches, no certainty, triggered by stress. “”The specific processes involved aren’t clear,” Dr. Broner states, “but it’s hypothesised that when people are stressed, physical changes take place within our bodies.” “As cortisol levels increase, our”fight or flight” reflex is activated.
What are the most effective ways to relieve “stress” headaches? And when is it appropriate to seek medical assistance?
As per Dr. Wexler, depending on the intensity and duration of your stress-related headache it is possible to get rid of it all on its own by stopping whatever is causing you stress. It’s recommended to lay down, meditate or do some gentle yoga.
Most tension headaches can be treated with analgesics available over the counter like naproxen or ibuprofen According to Dr. Broner, but the frequency of your use of medications is something to be monitored. “If you’re taking medications more frequently than once per week frequently it’s a sign your headache frequency is rising and you ought to speak to your doctor about the factors the reason for your headaches.” Dr. Broner advises.
The Dr. Wexler further advises that when headaches aren’t a regular frequency, particularly if over 50, it’s best to seek out a neurologist or headache specialist as this could mean something more serious is happening. Dr. Wexler also suggests paying close attention to “headaches that are frequently getting more or more frequent in time, and is caused by neurological issues like double vision, paralysis, tingling, numbness or loss of vision or even accompanied by fever.”
While having a headache or two is not a bad thing but it is recommended that Dr. Broner advises against making them a regular feature of your daily life. “It’s an awful time for many people So, be gentle to yourself and let yourself relax even when you’re feeling stressed.”
