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Headache help
continued from page 1
Cluster headaches, which are another form of migraine, are known for the most severe type of pain - so severe that they are sometimes referred to as a suicide headache. The pain mainly occurs at night and comes on regularly for one to three weeks before disappearing. (Attacks occur in series lasting for weeks or months separated by remissions lasting for months or years - hence the name cluster headache.) One eye becomes congested and watery, and the nostril on the same side is usually blocked as well. Although sufferers are usually in good health between attacks, the pain is so severe that many live in fear of the next one occurring.
If you suffer from frequent or severe headaches, it is important to seek medical advice as, occasionally, recurrent headaches need to be investigated, in case there is an underlying cause. If you are diagnosed with tension headache or migraine, make sure you eat regularly, drink enough fluids, avoid excess stress, get enough sleep and exercise regularly. As a first line treatment, three soluble aspirins in a glass of fizzy lemonade, coke or Lucozade will help by providing fluid, glucose and pain relief. Mouth dispersible aspirin such as Disprin Direct, which can be used without a drink, are ideal for emergency use.
For those with frequent recurrent migraines, prescription-only treatments are available. These include rescue therapies for when symptoms have struck, as well as preventive treatments to help keep attacks at bay.
Several herbal remedies are effective for treating migraine. These include Feverfew and Butterbur. According to the Migraine Action Association, a complementary therapy known as the Bowen technique is also helpful.
The Bowen Technique is a non-manipulative, hands-on technique that stimulates the body's energy flow. To find Bowen therapists in your area, contact the Bowen Therapists' European Register on 07986 008384 or visit
Seek medical advice if someone has:
Cluster headaches, which are another form of migraine, are known for the most severe type of pain - so severe that they are sometimes referred to as a suicide headache. The pain mainly occurs at night and comes on regularly for one to three weeks before disappearing. (Attacks occur in series lasting for weeks or months separated by remissions lasting for months or years - hence the name cluster headache.) One eye becomes congested and watery, and the nostril on the same side is usually blocked as well. Although sufferers are usually in good health between attacks, the pain is so severe that many live in fear of the next one occurring.
If you suffer from frequent or severe headaches, it is important to seek medical advice as, occasionally, recurrent headaches need to be investigated, in case there is an underlying cause. If you are diagnosed with tension headache or migraine, make sure you eat regularly, drink enough fluids, avoid excess stress, get enough sleep and exercise regularly. As a first line treatment, three soluble aspirins in a glass of fizzy lemonade, coke or Lucozade will help by providing fluid, glucose and pain relief. Mouth dispersible aspirin such as Disprin Direct, which can be used without a drink, are ideal for emergency use.
For those with frequent recurrent migraines, prescription-only treatments are available. These include rescue therapies for when symptoms have struck, as well as preventive treatments to help keep attacks at bay.
Several herbal remedies are effective for treating migraine. These include Feverfew and Butterbur. According to the Migraine Action Association, a complementary therapy known as the Bowen technique is also helpful.
The Bowen Technique is a non-manipulative, hands-on technique that stimulates the body's energy flow. To find Bowen therapists in your area, contact the Bowen Therapists' European Register on 07986 008384 or visit
Seek medical advice if someone has:
- three or more headaches a week
- a headache that keeps getting worse and won't go away
- other symptoms such as a stiff neck, fever, vomiting, confusion, drowsiness or unexpected symptoms affecting their eyes, ears, nose or throat
- headache plus dizziness, slurred speech, weakness, or changes in sensation (numbness and/or tingling)
- a persistent headache following a head injury
- a headache triggered by exertion, coughing, bending, or sexual activity.
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