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Any pain in the head or neck region can be broadly classed as a 'headache' and the easiest option is to reach for the pain killers for a quick fix. Often the easiest option is the best and within 20 minutes we've forgotten we even had a headache but what if the pain returns as they wear off, or alternatively doesn't respond at all or becomes worse? We then need to try to analyze what type of headache we have and use alternative remedies.

STROKE
Is the headache accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness in arms or legs, stumbling, slurred speech, or difficulty speaking ?

Treatment: If any of these occur - seek URGENT medical assistance as it could be a stroke. Be aware that the symptoms of a stroke will often occur WITHOUT a headache.

MIGRAINE
Severe throbbing headaches accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and smells, often with visual disturbances are usually indicative of migraines. Any movement you make, any noise or bright lights will increase the severity. Nausea and vomiting is common.

Treatment: There are several drugs especially targeting migraines but they do not work on everybody. If you can keep them down, use strong painkillers and retire to a quiet, dark room to sleep. If the pain is unrelenting and you cannot keep anything down you may need to have a pethidine injection. Acupressure is a great help with migraines. Use your fingertips to press firmly above and below your eyebrows and slightly out from the outer corners of your eyes. You will find some areas that are quite painful - these areas are the ones you need to work on. Press firmly in a clockwise motion and you will find that they will ease your headache temporarily.

SINUS
A headache accompanied by pressure, especially around the face, with pain when pressing around the nose and cheek bones is usually indicative of sinus congestion or infection.

Treatment: Painkillers are not generally of much assistance but you will find great relief from a nasal decongestant preferably a nasal spray. It is important to remember when using nasal sprays not to continue use for more that a few days as they can actually make the problem worse if used for too long. A simple home remedy is to irrigate your nasal passages with a solution made from 2 cups of tepid (very lukewarm) water and a 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Using a bulb syringe, gently pump water into your nostril and let it drain back through your nostrils or mouth. This will clean out the sinus passages and should relieve the pain.

EYESTRAIN
A headache

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