Headache and Head Injury Treatment
Most people have occasional headaches. Often, they go away with over-the-counter medication and rest, but sometimes, they are a sign of a serious condition. In fact, they can be a warning sign that you’re suffering from a stroke, brain aneurysm, or traumatic brain injury. Find out when you need to visit Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care and when you can manage the symptoms without medical intervention.
When to Go to the ER
If you have an emergency, don’t delay when seeking treatment. Go to the ER if:
- You have a weak immune system.
- You are recovering from or have cancer.
- The pain started after an injury.
- It’s the worst headache you’ve ever experienced.
- Your vision or speech has changed.
- You are experiencing memory loss.
- You feel confused.
- Your neck is stiff.
- You are nauseous and vomiting but aren’t suffering from a migraine.
- It’s hard to balance.
- Your arms and legs won’t move properly.
Types of Headaches – Primary Vs. Secondary
You can develop a primary or secondary headache. “Secondary” is the classification used for head pain caused by an injury or medical condition. You should go to the emergency room if you develop this condition.
On the other hand, primary headaches aren’t accompanied by other medical conditions. The types include:
- Tension headaches
- Migraine headaches
- Cluster headaches
- Hypnic headaches
- Sinus headaches
If you have a tension headache, it will feel like a band is wrapped tightly around your forehead, temples and head. The symptoms can last for days but might come and go.
Migraines are more intense. The throbbing pain is normally isolated to one side of the head, and you might experience nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to sounds and lights, and other symptoms. Unfortunately, the symptoms can last for up to 72 hours.
Cluster headaches are quite uncomfortable. Like migraines, the pain appears on one side of the head. However, they are usually shorter than migraines, lasting for a couple of hours. They have some other symptoms that can be frightening at the time, such as a droopy eyelid and enlarged pupil. Fortunately, the symptoms should resolve quickly.
Hypnic headaches are most common in people between the ages of 40-80. They are short, lasting for 15-60 minutes, and the pain is normally on both sides of the head.
You can also suffer from a sinus headache. You’ll feel pain and pressure in your nose, cheekbones, and forehead and might develop a fever and runny nose. If it’s caused by a viral infection, it will resolve on its own. However, you should see your primary care provider for medication if it’s due to a fungal or bacterial sinus infection.
How to Get Rid of a Headache
If your condition isn’t an emergency, you can treat it at home. Over-the-counter pain medications can alleviate the symptoms. Also, place a cold compress on the affected area and get plenty of rest. You should also avoid lights and loud sounds.
If you suffer from migraines, you can also consult with a specialist. The specialist can prescribe medications to help you manage your migraines.
If you have severe symptoms or are worried about your condition, visit Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care. Headaches should be taken seriously, so evaluate your symptoms and don’t hesitate to seek emergency care.
If you have severe symptoms or are worried about your condition, visit Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care. Headaches should be taken seriously, so evaluate your symptoms and don’t hesitate to seek emergency care.
