Oh, my aching head!



Anyone who has had a headache knows too well how debilitating they can be. However, as we all know, most headaches are not life-threatening. There are many different types of headache and two of the most common presentations I see in my clinical practise fall into the following two groups:
This type of headache is characterised by:
This type of headache causes moderate to severe pain made worse by light, noise and motion. Other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sounds are often experienced. Sometimes sufferers experience a visual aura. These headaches can last several hours, and even several days in some cases.
Some of the following may act as triggers for migraine headaches
References: Langley H (1987) Migraine. The British Naturopathic Journal and Osteopathic Review. Autumn 1987. Barlow A (1982). Manual of Osteopathic Practice.
- Tension-type headache
- Migraine headache
Tension-type headache

- Pressure and/or tightness around both sides of the head and/or neck
- Mild to moderate pain that tends t be steady and not throbbing in character
- Pain that is NOT made worse with physical activity
- Tenderness affecting the muscles of the head and neck/shoulder area
Migraine headache

- Certain foods and beverages
- The menstrual cycle
- Emotional stress and tension
- Lack of sleep
References: Langley H (1987) Migraine. The British Naturopathic Journal and Osteopathic Review. Autumn 1987. Barlow A (1982). Manual of Osteopathic Practice.
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