Frequently Occurring Headaches are Commonly Caused by an Undiagnosed Allergy
There are three common types of headaches, such as tension headaches, sinus headaches and migraines.
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are very common and begin as a dull steady ache at the back of the head and radiate around to the forehead and temples. They are caused by stress, arthritis of the spine, muscle tension in the cervical area, which puts pressure on the nerves. They are frequently associated with certain types of occupations such as sitting at a computer or driving trucks, operating sewing machines, reading or watching television in a cramped position. Typically, these tension headaches occur many hours later and can be relieved by muscle relaxants, massage or correcting “bad habits.”
Sinus Headaches
Sinus headaches are due to sinus pressure, around the forehead, face and around the eyes, which are dull, achy, intermittent, and come on gradually. They are frequently related to environmental allergens, but also foods such as milk, yeast and wheat. Sinus headaches are relieved with intranasal or oral steroids and decongestants (Sudafed or Phenylephrine), which decrease swelling of the nasal mucosa.
Migraine Headaches
There are two types of migraine headaches, with and without aura. These headaches are usually intense and incapacitating. Unilateral or bilateral migraine headaches are throbbing, pulsating, and can last anywhere from 4 to 24 hours. They are frequently associated with vomiting.
Migraine headaches are frequently associated with alcoholic beverages, especially red wine and champagne, foods with a high amount of tyramines and sulfites, as well as caffeine, chocolate, wheat, corn, onions, meat, eggs, nuts, tomatoes, apples, citrus fruits, peanuts and milk. Patients with migraine headaches should be evaluated in our office for food allergies.
