Headaches

What causes headaches?

Genetics or specific changes in your brain can cause headaches. Factors thought to trigger a headache include:

• Exhaustion
• Bright lights
• Menstruation
• Poor posture
• Weather changes
• An accident or trauma
• A caffeine spike or drop
• A drop in blood sugar
• Anxiety and depression
• Abnormal joint movements
• Allergies and food sensitivities
• Inflammation and eye strain
• Poor sleep quality and disrupted sleep patterns
• Tight muscles and tension in the shoulders and neck

Other key factors that may spark headaches include excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and processed foods containing chemical substances such as nitrates. The Optima Medical group educates you on lifestyle changes and ways to avoid these harmful substances, so you can prevent headaches from occurring.

Headaches are also a common symptom of autoimmune diseases and certain health conditions, such as forms of arthritis and fibromyalgia.

What symptoms go along with headaches?

Headaches can be more than just a pain in your head. In many cases, they come with other symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Loss of appetite
• Swelling of the head and temples
• Sensitivity to light and temperature

If you experience frequent headaches and other worrisome symptoms, see your Optima Medical provider to find relief and rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Head pain can be debilitating and lead to cognitive impairment and other symptoms that inhibit your daily life.

According to the National Headache Foundation, 157 million work and school days are lost every year due to headaches. The Optima Medical team’s goal is to help you experience symptom relief and return to living life to the fullest.

What are the treatment options for headaches?

Once your Optima Medical provider uncovers the cause of your headaches, they determine your best course of treatment. Expect to receive plenty of information about your treatment options during your consultation.

Treatment options may include:

• Acupuncture
• Relaxation training
• Stress management
• Spinal manipulation
• Ergonomic guidance
• Nutritional counseling
• Thermal biofeedback
• Physical rehabilitation
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy

Headache treatments can correct spinal and muscular dysfunctions, improve mobility, and reduce pain. You and your Optima Medical provider might decide it’s best to use multiple treatments at the same time.

The Optima Medical group merges regenerative, holistic, and traditional physical medicine to help you feel better and find headache relief. Call or click to schedule an appointment online.