Introduction
Though headaches are prevalent, they are not uniform in kind. Some feel like a dull ache, while others are bothersome but can be managed. Some induce excruciating pain that might hinder you from functioning normally, while others are somewhere in the intermediate range.
A severe headache can be described as a pulsating or throbbing pain that can occur at any part of the head. The pain can either extend across a broad area of the head or be confined to a single location. Severe headaches can develop either gradually or abruptly, and their duration can range from one hour up to several days. Headaches are a prevalent ailment among Americans, and there is a high likelihood of everyone experiencing one at some point in their life. They can affect individuals of all ages, races, incomes, and genders.
If you are experiencing a severe headache and have tried over-the-counter medications but to no avail, it is advisable to seek medical attention at the nearest emergency department. This guide by experts from South Shore ER entails more information regarding severe headaches, including their types, causes, and symptoms that signal the need for emergency room treatment for severe headaches. Our emergency room and walk-in center operate around the clock, and our experienced physicians specialize in treating severe headaches. Our facility provides all kinds of medical emergencies. Contact South Shore ER today for more information regarding severe headaches emergency room treatment near Alvin, TX. Let’s start by looking at some of the types of headaches.
What Are Some of The Types of Headaches?
Most prevalent headaches assessed in urgent care can be classified into three main categories:
- Tension Headaches- Tension headaches arise from a combination of several variables, including stress. These are linked to tight muscles in the jaw, neck, and head and usually manifest as a tight band of dull discomfort around the head. Tension headaches have a duration ranging from 30 minutes to around 5 days.
- Sinus Headaches– Sinus headaches occur concomitantly with a sinus infection. Typically, they manifest in conjunction with sinus pressure and nasal congestion.
- Migraines– Migraine headaches result in intense, throbbing pain. Commonly, they manifest with additional symptoms such as nausea or heightened sensitivity to sound and light. The typical duration for these types of headaches is between 4 hours and 3 days. These are the specific types of headaches that often prompt individuals to seek urgent care or emergency room treatment.
What Are Some of The Causes of Severe Headaches
Here, we’ll use a different classification of headaches in order to better understand their causes.
- Primary Headaches
Primary headaches arise when the pain is not caused by any other symptom or medical condition. The occurrence of these headaches can be attributed to chemical activity within the brain, genetics, or the response of pain-sensitive structures. There are several categories of primary headaches, which include: tension headaches and cluster headaches.
- Secondary Headaches
Secondary headaches occur when an underlying health condition leads to an exaggerated response of the nerves in the head to pain receptors. A variety of illnesses and health disorders can result in the development of secondary headaches, such as:
- Stroke
- Sinusitis
- Meningitis
- Medications
- Influenza
- Hangover
- Glaucoma
- Ear Infection
- Dehydration
- Blood Clot
- Chronic Daily Headaches
If you get headaches on an almost daily basis, you may be suffering from chronic daily headaches. The persistent nature of these headaches can impede your ability to engage in regular activities. The causes of chronic daily headaches are complex and mostly a medical intervention is required to diagnose accurately. Pharmacological treatment can effectively manage chronic daily headaches; however, some individuals have persistent pain even with medicinal interventions.
- Migraines
Migraines are often caused by several factors, including:
- Genetics. A family history of migraines can increase the likelihood of experiencing them.
- Hormonal Changes. Fluctuations in estrogen, particularly in women, can trigger migraines (e.g., during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause).
- Environmental Factors. Changes in weather or exposure to bright lights and loud sounds can trigger migraines.
- Stress. Physical or emotional stress is a common trigger.
- Dietary Factors. Certain foods and drinks, such as aged cheeses, alcohol (especially red wine), caffeine, and food additives like MSG, can cause migraines.
- Sleep Disturbances. Both lack of sleep and excessive sleep can trigger migraines.
Management of migraine headaches can be achieved by the use of medication and preventative measures.
- Activity Headaches
Activity-induced headaches occur as a result of engaging in an activity. They are often linked to vigorous physical activity, sexual intercourse, and coughing.
When To Seek Emergency Room Treatment Near Alvin, TX, For a Headache
Periodically, a headache can signal a medical emergency, for example, a brain aneurysm or a stroke. Seek ER treatment if your headache is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
- Abrupt onset of severe and unexplainable headache, commonly referred to as a “thunderclap” headache
- Confusion
- High fever
- Loss of vision
- Weakness
- Numbness
Understanding Severe Headaches– Types, Causes, and Emergency Room Treatment Near Alvin, TX at South Shore ER
If you are experiencing a severe headache, please visit our nearest Emergency Room facility now. South Shore ER offers top-rated emergency room services that are constantly accessible, ensuring round-the-clock pain treatment provision. Our team of board-certified doctors is accessible round the clock to both diagnose and provide treatment for any medical situation, including severe headaches. You can count on us! You can also reach out to our online team of experts for more information regarding severe headaches- types, causes, and emergency room treatment near Alvin, TX.
