What is a headache?
There are two types of headaches: those caused by other diseases that do not have any underlying cause (primary headaches) and those caused by other diseases (secondary headaches).
The most common type of headache is the episodic headache, which includes migraine and tension headache. Migraine headaches are characterized by a throbbing pain in one or both sides of the head, accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Tension headaches are caused by pressure on both sides of the head or the entire head, and are thought to be linked to neck and shoulder pain, prolonged sitting in the same position, and other factors.
On the other hand, secondary headaches include conditions that need to be investigated immediately, such as subarachnoid hemorrhage and meningitis. Any headache that is different from usual is important to determine the cause.
In such cases, seek medical attention.
- The headaches keep recurring, interfering with life and work.
- The number of days I take pain medication has increased.
- The way headaches occur and the intensity of the pain have changed from before.
- There is a headache along with the fever
- The first headache after turning 50
- Headache that gets worse with each day
- Headache that appeared several days to several weeks after being hit on the head
The following types of headaches may indicate a brain disease and require immediate emergency care.
- A sudden, most severe headache ever
- Numbness or difficulty moving limbs, paralysis, and double vision
- It's hot and my neck is stiff and hard to bend forward.
- After hitting the head, the headache gradually gets worse, there is repeated nausea and vomiting, and consciousness becomes blurry.
- His consciousness was abnormal, and he had seizures.
Tests performed at our clinic
We will ask about the way the headache occurs, the duration of the pain, the accompanying symptoms, and the medications you are taking, and then perform a neurological examination. If necessary, we will perform blood tests.
If brain imaging (CT or MRI) is required, you can have the test performed at a collaborating medical institution. The collaborating institutions are:About Partner HospitalsYou can see it on the page of
medical treatment
For a single-episode headache, you use medication such as painkillers based on the type of pain. For a migraine, there are medications for migraine headaches.
We will review together the lifestyle habits that can trigger headaches, such as sleep and meal patterns, and staying in the same position for long periods of time. In the case of headaches related to neck and shoulder stiffness,stiff shouldersPlease also see the page for "The New York Times."
If secondary headaches are suspected, we will recommend a specialized medical institution based on the underlying condition.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Is it okay to continue taking over-the-counter pain relievers?
A. If you take pain medication more often, it may make headaches more likely to occur (headaches caused by overuse of medication). If you have increased the number of times you take pain medication, please consult with us.
Q. Which department should I consult if I have a headache?
A. At our clinic, we treat headaches in the internal medicine department. If you suspect a headache that needs to be examined urgently, we will recommend a medical institution that can perform the necessary tests.
Q. Does having a stiff neck cause headaches?
A. Neck and shoulder stiffness is thought to be related to tension headaches.