Headaches happen to everyone. This common ailment has a variety of causes, which can make choosing the right treatment option difficult. That’s why American Health Chiropractic in Milford, OH, is educating the community on common causes of headaches and how the pain can effectively be treated.

A Guide to Headaches

Common Causes of Headaches

Headaches have so many potential causes it can be difficult to diagnose the true trigger. Poor posture can affect the spine’s alignment, which leads to neck pain and headaches. Looking at a bright screen can also exacerbate the pain.  Other times, headaches result from an overactivity of the blood vessels and muscles in the area. In extreme cases, the symptoms are accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light which is classified as a migraine. 

Headaches can also be provoked by external stimuli. Something as simple as a tight ponytail can produce hours of pain. In rarer cases, head trauma from an auto accident or an undiscovered brain tumor can cause chronic headaches. 

Effective Headache Treatments

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as Tylenol or Aspirin, is a common remedy. You can also use cold therapy, such as a plastic bag of ice, to reduce vessel inflammation and pressure. If it’s a tension headache, use heat on the neck muscles instead. Getting to a dark, quiet place can reduce brain stimulation, which decreases the pain. If you’re able to, gently massage the neck and temples for added relief.

In some cases, you may need to seek chiropractic care to treat your chronic headaches. Your health provider may perform a variety of alignments and adjustments to reduce pressure on joints in your upper body. After a series of sessions, you should see headache severity and frequency subside, as well as any chronic back pain you had been experiencing. 

Headaches are a common affliction that can last anywhere from hours to days. Understanding the common causes of headaches can help you choose the right treatment for you. If you find these at-home remedies aren’t keeping your pain at bay, reach out to the professionals at American Health Chiropractic by phone at (513) 576-6699 or online.