Treatment for Chronic Headaches in Petaluma, CA

What are Headaches?

Tired man sitting at his desk having a headacheA headache is a pain or discomfort in the head or face. Headaches can develop gradually or suddenly, and may last from less than an hour to several days. Headaches are very common and in most cases are no reason for concern. In some cases, headaches may be a sign of an underlying condition.

Headaches are often described with pressure that is throbbing, constant, sharp or dull.

 Headaches may:

  • Occur on one or both sides of the head
  • Be isolated to a certain location
  • Radiate across the head from one point
  • Bring a feeling of tightness or firmness
  • Occur in connection with another medical condition

What are the Types of Headaches?

Migraine Headache

  • Most common type of headache
  • Usually on one side of the head
  • Lasts from two to seventy-two hours
  • Often associated with nausea and/or vomiting
  • Brings a sensitivity to light and/or sound
  • Typically a throbbing pain
  • Is a chronic disease or genetic condition
  • May be experienced alongside an “aura” which can be flashes of light, blind spots, and other vision changes or tingling in your hand or face 

Tension Headache

  • Second most common headache type
  • Often referred to as “hatband” headaches because they typically painful around the back of the head, the temples and forehead, as if a tight hat were in place
  • May feel pressure at onset and can last from hours to days
  • Can co-exist with migraine, and one can transform or trigger the other
  • Often responsive to physical therapy, relaxation therapy and anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants 

Cluster Headache

  • Relatively short-lived lasting usually between 20 minutes and two hours
  • Always one-sided and is associated with symptoms such as a stuffy nose on one side, tearing, an enlarged pupil, or a droopy lid
  • Occur several to many times a day for a period of days to weeks, and then disappear for a variable amount of time, usually weeks to months
  • Some of the most painful headaches imaginable 

Cervicogenic Headaches and Occipital Neuralgia

What May Cause Headaches?

When headache triggers are known, avoiding the triggers can prevent a headache. Reducing stress can minimize or prevent headaches. Migraine and cluster headaches may be prevented by taking daily preventive medicines.

What is the Treatment for Headaches?

The treatment for your headache may depend on the type of headache you are experiencing.

Common Treatment Options

Over-the-Counter Medications

  • Aspirin
  • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
  • Caffeine

Rest

  • In a quiet, dark room
  • Hot or cold compresses
  • Massage
  • Muscle relaxants

Other Medications

  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Injectable medications
  • Prescription nasal sprays
  • Preventive medications
  • CGRP monoclonal antibodies

Therapy

  • Botox Injections
  • Physical therapy
  • Other Injections
    • Occipital Nerve Blocks
    • Cervical Spine Injections
    • Trigger Point Injections

Each type of headache has different treatment methods that can be effective in treating headache pain. It is important to be open and honest with your healthcare provider to find what works for you. 

You may undergo some testing like blood tests, X-rays, or an MRI to properly diagnose your type of headache and to get relief for your symptoms. In complicated cases the best therapy options may become clearer over several visits.

When to Get Help

Almost everyone gets headaches and many are nothing to worry about.

If headaches are disrupting your activities, work or personal life, it’s time to see your doctor. Headaches can’t always be prevented, but your doctor can help you manage the symptoms.

Your age, lifestyle, and personal preference will all determine which treatment is best for you. The goal of treatment is to stop headaches from occurring, avoiding triggers, and get control quickly if they do occur.